Lamaism is not a separate religion; it is the name coined to distinguish the Buddhism of mainland India from the Buddhism practised by the Lamas, who are the high priests of monasteries in Tibet and Ladakh.

This book presents a sociological study of the young Lamas, with special reference to Leh. Tracing the genesis of Buddhism in India and its spread to Ladakh and Leh, it analyzes the factors that led to the emergence of Lamaism, It examines the position, aspirations, upbringing and psycho-physical strains of the young Lamas, along with the organization and functioning of the monasteries. It also discusses in detail the nature of relationship between the monastery and the laity.