Uleytokpo hidden gem of Ladakh

Lamayuru is known as moonland of Ladakh, which is a hamlet that offers nature treat to your eyes. Uleytokpo is a part of Lamayuru district that is located 70km away from Leh and Ladakh. However much I tried researching, I am unable to find out the meaning of Uleytokpo. Being an offbeat spot filled with breathtaking beauty of nature, it is full of mountains, valleys and fascinating landscapes.

Now my mind went on to find out, why it is called as "moonland". This spot comes under lunar territory a place where moon rises. The geological formation is such that the reflection of moon falls on the landscapes which nearly shuts a person's mind, and just observe. As you look back, twinkling stars, the lovely night sky unfolds, spreading chill air around. On no moon day, darkness creeps around but stars twinkle as much reminding you, it is a surreal moonscape spot.

Being a remote spot of Ladakh, there are lot of THINGS TO DO.

-Visiting Lamayaru village, nicknamed as moonland spot. This village is sandwiched between Kargil and Leh. Lamayuru monastery is an ancient monastery, where there is a meditation cave.

-Kabgyst is their annual festival where mask dances are popular.

-Chulichan nunnery is yet another unique spot, which is a monastery facing lovely streams and mountain slopes.

-Rizong monastery also known as, Yuma Chang chubling on the way to Lamayuru is where Indus river flows. There is a secluded meditation cave, that history says Guru Padma Sambhava meditated.

-Likir monastery is 3700m high located on Leh highway devoted to Tibet Buddhism. Likir village is an isolated spot, which was a trade route centuries ago.

-Travellers who come this close to Uleyktopo should travel to Alchi village, where Alchi Gompa is built. It is one of the oldest monastery.

-Nimo village is a picturesque village, where a part of Zanskar river flows.

-Basgo fort otherwise known as, Basgo monastery is an enroute from Uleytokpo. Filled with temples dedicated to Maitreya Buddha, this fort was built by Namgyal rulers.

CUISINE- Being a part of Ladakh you would find yum momos, slurping thukpas, hot piping tea to sip. Apricot jam is one such delicacy you shouldnt miss tasting nor be without buying. They are homemade and are very very fresh. Chhutagi is a water bread, filled with nutrition which is a blend of vegetables or meat. Chhang is a local beer made out of barley.

To wind up the article, meaning end of my trip too, Uleytokpo is an untouched, nonpolluted spot which is a part of Leh and Ladakh packages. Don't miss backpacking to this lovely spot, if you are travelling to Ladakh or Leh, to create lovely memories.