The arid region of Leh and Ladakh is peppered with Buddhist monasteries and stupas. The Lamayuru Monastery—perched on a steep rock mountain at 3,500 metres—is one of the oldest monasteries in Leh and is affiliated to Drikung Kagyu school of Buddhism.

Almost in ruins today, Larnayuru hosts two masked dance festivals every year in the months of March and June, where monks and villagers perform traditional dance in colourful costumes. Surrounding it is a surreal moon-like landscape that excites both photographers and trekkers. The best time to visit the region is from June to September as the roads are clear and snow-free.