For those looking to embark on a journey to the stunning Nubra Valley in India, we have put together an extensive guide for travelers. As one of the essential destinations in Leh-Ladakh, Nubra Valley presents breathtaking scenery, varied terrain, scenic paths, and a unique way of life and culture. Continue reading to discover more about Nubra Valley, known as the Orchard of Ladakh.

Nubra Valley

Situated 10,000 feet above sea level in the Ladakh area of Jammu and Kashmir, India, Nubra Valley is encircled by the snow-laden Himalayan and Karakoram ranges. Previously known as Ldumra, which translates to "valley of flowers," it is truly described as the Orchard of Ladakh.

This elevated desert offers an excellent environment for acclimatization upon your arrival in Leh. By traveling from Leh to the high-height Khardung La and then resting at a lower elevation in Nubra Valley, your body adapts much more effectively.

Historically, Nubra Valley formed part of the ancient Silk Route to Central Asia, linking Tibet with Turkistan via the Karakoram Pass. This valley acts as the entrance to Siachen Glacier, the globe's highest combat zone. Visitors require an Inner Line Permit (ILP) to access Nubra Valley.

To access Nubra Valley, one must traverse the Khardung La Pass, renowned as one of the highest roads accessible by vehicles worldwide. The route is characterized by sharp hairpin turns and breathtaking scenery. In this area, you'll encounter snow-covered peaks, deserts, rivers, lush vegetation, quaint villages, and monasteries. The valley is famous for its historic gompas, thermal springs, sandy dunes, and double-humped Bactrian camels.

 

 

How to reach

Here are the different ways you can reach Nubra Valley:

By Air

Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport, located in Leh, is the closest airport to Nubra Valley, situated 120 kilometers away. Leh Airport offers direct flights from locations such as Srinagar, Chandigarh, Delhi, and Mumbai.

By Train

The nearest train station is Jammu Tawi, approximately 750 kilometers from Nubra Valley. This station has good connections to various other cities.

By Road

Nubra Valley is effectively linked to Leh via road. To get to Nubra Valley, you will need to travel through the Khardung La pass, renowned as one of the highest drivable passes globally.

You can find shared taxis and buses available, or you can hire a cab from Leh Airport to travel to Nubra Valley. Additionally, you have the option to drive your own car or ride a motorcycle from Leh to Nubra Valley. Motorbike rentals are accessible in Leh. However, due to the road conditions leading to Nubra Valley, it is advisable that novice riders avoid biking.

Best places to visit in Nubra Valley

Nubra Valley boasts breathtaking scenery, and you will be captivated wherever you venture within this area. We have selected some of the most remarkable spots you will encounter in Nubra Valley.

Khardung La Pass

The Khardung La Pass serves as the entry point to Nubra Valley, recognized as one of the highest motorable passes globally at an elevation of 5602 meters! Its proximity to the borders of Pakistan and the Siachen glacier results in the Indian Army putting substantial effort into maintaining the pass open year-round.

As you travel towards Nubra Valley, you might see wildlife like Himalayan marmots and yaks grazing along the route.

The chilly conditions prevent tourists from exiting their vehicles for more than 15 minutes; however, there is a small souvenir shop at the pass operated by the Indian Army. This shop allows visitors to enjoy hot tea and monitor their blood oxygen levels during their stop.

Diskit Monastery

The settlement of Diskit serves as the primary economic center for Nubra Valley, and one of the valley's most visited sites is the Diskit Monastery. Constructed during the 14th century, this monastery stands as the oldest and largest in the area, boasting over 600 years of history.

Situated on a hillside, the Diskit Monastery provides breathtaking vistas of the beautiful Nubra Valley, the snow-covered peaks of the Himalayas, and the expansive sand dunes. Inside the monastery, there are multiple prayer halls and shrines, but the highlight is the impressive Maitreya Buddha statue, which towers more than 32 meters tall.

Perched atop the Diskit gompa, the Maitreya Buddha statue gazes down at the Shyok River and the remarkable scenery surrounding it. Erected in 2006, it symbolizes the safeguarding of the local village, the hope to avert conflicts in Pakistan, and the aspiration for global harmony.

Housing approximately one hundred monks, the monastery also contains various ancient murals, manuscripts, and thangkas, which reflect the rich cultural heritage of the Ladakhi people.

Each February, the monastery celebrates the annual Dosmoche festival. This event features traditional ceremonies and dances.

Hunder Village

When considering the Himalayas, snow usually comes to mind. However, there is a small settlement in Nubra Valley that features a desert! Hunder Village, located just 8 kilometers from Diskit, is recognized for its lofty sand dunes, stunning scenery, and Bactrian camels. These dunes, situated at about 10,000 feet and encircled by the Karakoram mountains, are referred to as the "desert in the sky." Hunder was once part of the ancient Silk Route and is famous for the sea buckthorn plants that thrive here.

One of the top attractions in Hunder is riding the Bactrian camel. These camels, characterized by their two humps, were historically employed for transport on the Silk Road. Nowadays, visitors can enjoy camel rides across the dunes of Hunder. There's also an opportunity for quad biking on the sandy terrain.

Hunder is home to several historic monasteries, the Hunder Monastery being over 350 years old, offering views of the village and the beautiful landscapes surrounding it.

The village features local markets where you can experience traditional Ladakhi dishes, including momos, thukpa, and butter tea.

Yarab Tso Lake

The untouched Yarab Tso lake located in Nubra Valley could be regarded as one of the best hidden gems of Ladakh. Situated 15 kilometers away from Diskit, a trek is required to access this holy lake. The journey begins at Panamik Village, and you will need to walk for about thirty minutes to arrive at this concealed lake. The water is so transparent and pristine that swimming or bathing is prohibited. Simply relax beside the lake and breathe in the fresh air – you will experience tranquility unlike any other place.

Siachen glacier

Siachen Glacier represents the longest ice formation in the Karakoram range. Situated along the Line of Control, this 76-kilometer stretch holds the title of the highest combat zone on the planet. Captured by the Indian Army in 1984, Siachen Glacier continues to be a site of dispute between India and Pakistan.

Since 2019, Siachen Glacier has been accessible to travelers. Visitors are able to journey from the Siachen base camp to Kumar Post, which is situated at an elevation exceeding 4,500 meters. In winter months, temperatures at Siachen Glacier can drop to below -60 degrees.

Samstanling Monastery

A charming hamlet located in Ladakh, Sumur is home to the Samstanling Monastery, which is the second largest in the Nubra Valley. The monastery exhibits vibrant hues of red, white, and gold, yet it is tucked away behind a path lined with flora and shrubs.

The Samstanling Monastery was founded over 140 years ago by Lama Tsultim Nima. It accommodates around 50 monks and has two gathering areas adorned with Buddhist art and wall paintings.

To get to the monastery from Sumur village, one can either take a taxi or enjoy a scenic walk lasting about fifty minutes.

Turtuk Village

Recognized as the final village in India, Turtuk historically served as a significant route along the Silk Road. For those who enjoy trekking and the outdoors, this charming village is a must-visit. It is famous for its apricots and walnuts, with the scenery characterized by extensive orchards of apricot trees. Furthermore, it stands as the largest apricot producer in Ladakh, with the fruits being regarded as the sweetest in that area.

Turtuk is mainly a Muslim community with about 3,500 inhabitants. The village is home to the Balti people, an ethnic group with Tibetan and Dardic ancestry. The locals converse in the Balti language, which blends elements of ancient Tibetan and Persian.

Located just 12 kilometers from the border with Pakistan, Turtuk became open to tourists in 2010. Prior to that year, it was restricted from access to both foreign visitors and Indian nationals.

Panamik Village

A quaint settlement located in Nubra Valley, Panamik lies 150 kilometers from Leh and is near the Siachen glacier. Prior to the opening of Turtuk and the Siachen Glacier to visitors, Panamik was the final village and the northernmost area in Nubra Valley that permitted tourist entry.

The village is recognized for its thermal springs rich in sulfur, known for their numerous health benefits and therapeutic qualities. Many individuals suffering from rheumatism and other conditions flock to the village to soak in the warm springs.

Additionally, it serves as a starting point for the hike to the Ensa Monastery, which has been around for 250 years. This Buddhist site offers views of the snow-capped mountains in Nubra Valley. The historic structure of Ensa Gompa features dark artwork on its walls, while the exterior is embellished with prayer flags.

 

 

Best time to visit

The optimal period for exploring Nubra Valley is from June to October. This timeframe marks the height of tourist activity, as the climate is enjoyable and ideal for outdoor adventures and sightseeing. While this period coincides with the monsoon across much of India, Nubra, being at a higher elevation, experiences minimal rainfall.

During these months, you may encounter crowds in various areas of Nubra Valley. However, the benefit of this busy season is that numerous eateries, coffee shops, and souvenir stalls are operational.

From April to May, the climate becomes less stable and a bit chillier, but the volume of tourists significantly decreases. The area’s natural beauty during this season is striking, with wildflowers blossoming abundantly.

The period from November to March is considered the off-peak season in Nubra Valley. The weather can be unpredictable and cold, with nighttime temperatures dropping significantly. Visitors typically shy away from the area during this time due to the severe weather conditions. Many tourist services are closed, yet if you choose to visit then, you will find the valley transformed into a snowy paradise. Additionally, with a lack of tourists, the valley feels quite private. This season is also when many festivals are celebrated, including Losar, Christmas, and New Year in December, Makar Sankranti in January, and Dosmoche in February.

 

Where to eat

In Leh, numerous dining establishments and food outlets can be discovered; however, options may be limited at Khardung La Pass on your way to Nubra Valley. It is advisable to bring sufficient food supplies until you arrive in Nubra Valley.

Once you reach Nubra Valley, you will encounter a variety of dining options, particularly in Diskit, Turtuk, and Hunder. Most venues offer Tibetan and Chinese cuisine, featuring items such as momos and thukpa. There are also a handful of spots recognized for serving Balti dishes.

If you’re looking for delicious meals, consider visiting The Tibetan Kitchen, Corretto Leh, Bonfire Cafe, and Gyantse Restaurant, which are a few recommended places.

 

Where to stay

Numerous hotels and homestays are available in Nubra Valley for travelers looking for a place to rest. This well-known tourist spot provides a range of lodging, from budget-friendly camps to luxurious hotels.

In Diskit, several guesthouses cater to those with a moderate budget. They also offer camping options if you prefer to stay outdoors. Sumur features a few camps equipped with essential amenities. In Hunder village, you can find several decent three-star and four-star hotel choices. Staying in homestays is also an option, allowing you to immerse yourself in the traditions and way of life of local tribes such as the Balti.

Popular places to stay in Nubra Valley include Nubra Eco Village, Stone Hedge Ladakh, White Sands Resort, Lchang Nang Retreat – The House of Trees, and Hunder Stay and Camp.

 

Other essentials to keep in mind

In Diskit village, a medical facility is available for essential healthcare and treatment services

In the remote areas of Nubra Valley, most mobile phones will struggle to receive a signal. A BSNL postpaid connection is effective in various regions of Nubra Valley, although some locations may still experience signal interruptions.
Nubra Valley does not have any banks or ATMs. The last ATM encountered when traveling from Leh to Nubra Valley is located on Khardung La road, so it is important to bring cash from Leh.

There are two fuel stations in Nubra Valley, one situated in Diskit and the other in Tangtse.
 It is important to stay well-hydrated at all times. Consider carrying a reusable water bottle to refill, helping to minimize plastic waste in the Himalayan region.

 

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Nubra Valley so famous?

Nubra Valley is a cold desert at a high altitude, celebrated for its stunning views, clear lakes, sandy dunes, and Bactrian camels.

Where is Nubra Valley located?

Situated in the far northern region of India, Nubra Valley lies between the Ladakh and Karakoram mountains.

Can we cover Nubra Valley in one day?

To experience Nubra Valley thoroughly, at least two days are required, with one night spent in either Hunder or Diskit.

What is the best time to visit Nubra Valley?

The ideal period to visit Nubra Valley is from June to October, as the climate during these months is delightful for discovery and sightseeing.