Lamayuru – Alchi — The Monastery Trail

From Moonland to Masterpieces

This route links two jewels of Ladakhi Buddhism: Lamayuru, the ancient monastery above eroded 'moonland' badlands, and Alchi, whose 11th-century murals are among the Himalaya's greatest artistic treasures. Between them lie gorges, passes and villages like Wanla and Hinju.

The Route

Lamayuru → Prinkiti La → Wanla and its hilltop gompa → Hinju → the long climb over Stakspi La (~16,300 ft) → steep descent to Alchi on the Indus. Road changes in the region offer shorter variants; the full crossing remains the classic.

Best Time and Difficulty

June–September. Moderate, with one big pass day over Stakspi La. Combine with Sham Valley for a rich week of culture-first trekking in lower Ladakh.