Nubra valley is a high altitude cold desert located in the northern most region of Ladakh. Nestled between the Karakoram and Ladakh mountain ranges. The traditional name of Nubra valley is “LDumra”, it is a Tibetan name which means “Valley of Flowers” due to its fertile lands and blooming flora amidst the rugged mountains. The word Nubra is often associated with “sunlight”, because of the relatively warmer temperatures of the valley as compared to other regions of Ladakh. It is famous for monasteries, sand dunes and the rare double humped Bactrian camel.
The famous Khardung La pass, the world’s second highest motorable pass serves as the gateway to Nubra valley. This pass connects Indus river valley, Shyok river valley and Nubra valley. It is advisable not to spend more than 15 minutes at this location because of low oxygen saturation in the air. Nubra Valley is situated at a lower altitude than Leh, making it an ideal destination for travelers to acclimatize after arriving in Ladakh.
Nubra Valley: Blossoms and Barren Beauty in Perfect Harmony
Nubra valley lies about 150 kms north from Leh. It is located at an average altitude of 3048 m above sea level. Nubra valley is formed by the confluence of Shyok river and Nubra river or Siachen river.
Nubra valley’s geography is a fascinating mix of desert, mountains, fertile land with glacial meltwaters and rivers facilitating the fertile valleys. To the North of the Nubra valley, Siachen Glacier is located. From the west, Nubra valley is surrounded by Turtuk and Baltistan region. To the east is Sasser pass, leading to the China region. And, to the south there is Leh.
Tracing the History of Nubra Valley
Nubra valley in Ladakh is a historically rich region shaped by ancient trade, Buddhist influence, royal conquest and modern military significance. Nubra valley was part of Ladakh region.
Nubra valley was part of the ancient silk route connecting India, Tibet and Central Asia. It connected Leh (India) with Yarkand & Kashgar (China) and Baltistan (Pakistan), passing through the highest motorable pass Khardung La. Major trade commodities were exchanged such as silk, spices, dry fruits, wool and more.
The double humped Bactrian camel is a living relic of the Silk route. Moreover, if we look at the present day significance of this place, Siachen Glacier, the world’s highest battlefield, lies close to Nubra Valley.
India-Pakistan Border and Turtuk’s History
Before 1947, Turtuk was ruled by Dogra rulers of Jammu and Kashmir Between 1947 and 1971, the village was part of Kashmir. During the Indo-Pak War of 1971, the Indian Army recaptured Turtuk and three other villages, making them part of Ladakh.
Places To Visit In Nubra Valley
Diskit Monastery
Diskit monastery is the oldest and the largest monastery in the Nubra valley. It belongs to the Gelugpa sect of Tibetan Buddhism. The monastery is perched at an high altitude of 10,000 ft. The majestic Maitreya Buddha statue with the height of 106 feet serves as the prominent figure for the locals. The statue symbolises peace, protection and compassion. It was consecrated by the 14th Dalai Lama.
The monastery has ancient Tibetan murals and prayer halls. The monastery offers breathtaking panoramic views. You can take a 5-6 hours drive from Leh to reach Diskit monastery via Khardung La Pass. It is approx. 115 kms.
Samstanling Monastery
Samstanling monastery is a famous tourist attraction in Nubra valley. It is the serene Buddhist Monastery in Nubra Valley. It is located in the picturesque village, Sumur. It has red and white walls adorned with Buddhist paintings. It was founded by Lama Tsultim Nima 140 years ago. It is the best place for tourists seeking tranquility and peace. It has a peaceful courtyard and offers a place for prayer and meditation.
Turtuk village
Turtuk village is the last village(northernmost village) of India located near the Line of Control (LoC) with Pakistan, it is known for its unique Balti culture and lush green landscapes.
Turtuk’s terrain is vastly different from the rest of the rocky and barren terrain of Ladakh. The Shyok river flows through the entire village. Let us understand the vegetation of the region, Turtuk has apricot orchards and wheat, barley fields. Turtuk village is a green oasis in a cold desert, due to the Shyok river and glacial meltwaters, agricultural production is made possible. The village is inhabited by people of Balti community.
Hunder
Hunder is a cold desert village in Nubra valley. It is known for its golden sand dunes, and double humped Bactrian camel. Hunder is the adventure hub of the Nubra valley. You can do camel rides, camping and ATV rides in Hunder. It offers a beautiful stargazing experience because of the high altitude and clear skies, stargazing is a must thing to do in Hunder.
Camping at Hunder is truly an adventurous experience. Enjoy the camel ride in sand dunes surrounded by snow capped mountains and green forests. The place is inhabited mainly by Buddhist people. Hunder has a range of accommodation such as guest house homestays and camps. It is one of the best places to visit in Nubra valley.
Best Time To Visit Nubra Valley
The ideal time to visit Nubra valley is between March to May(Summer) and June to September(Autumn).
The valley transforms into a blooming paradise. The sky gets clear, ideal for sightseeing and photography. If you want to witness the Apricot and apple orchard bloom with white and pink flowers, then these months are perfect for your trip.
Nubra valley temperature ranges from 10°C to 20°C. Most of the areas are accessible during these months. Summer is the best time to visit Nubra valley. You can enjoy the adventure activities such as Camel ride and ATV ride, the perfect time to indulge in adventure activities.
As summer fades, Autumn paints the Nubra valley with the shades of crimson, golden and amber. The contrasting fiery foliage against the barren mountains are perfect for photographers. The sky gets clear and the crisp mountain air feels refreshingly pure, carrying the faint scent of ripening apricots and apples from nearby orchards.
Best Itinerary for Nubra Valley
Day 1: Arrival at Leh Airport | Acclimatization Day
After the arrival at Leh airport, the group will assemble at the airport. You will be dropped by vehicle to your designated hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure for acclimatization. Travelers can indulge in cafe hopping and explore the local market of Leh. Dinner will be served in the evening followed by an overnight stay in Leh.
Day 2: Leh Sightseeing Day
On this day post breakfast, a brief session would be conducted, it will provide insight to the region’s rich history and help travelers better know about the landscapes, monasteries, and local traditions they will experience throughout the journey. We will spend some time at the sangam site of Zanskar river and the Indus river.
We will visit the tourist attractions like Gurudwara Pathar Sahib, Magnetic Hill which is an anti-gravity hill, as well as the Hall of Fame, and lastly we will visit Shantu Stupa known for its beautiful white dome, statues and intricate carvings. We will return to our Hotel where dinner will be served in the evening followed by an overnight stay in Leh.
Day 3: Leh to Nubra Valley
After breakfast we will head towards Nubra valley, en route we will stop at one of the Highest Motorable Roads in the World, Khardung La. Upon reaching Nubra we will check into our campsite at Hunder. In the evening travelers can indulge in double humped camel Bactrian rides, ATV rides(on their own expenses) at Hunder. We will have dinner followed by overnight stay in the campsite.
Day 4: Nubra to Pangong
Post breakfast we will check out of the campsite and head towards the iconic lake, Pangong Tso, en route we will visit Diskit monastery, famous for its 106 ft. tall Buddha statue. After paying reverence at the monastery we will resume our journey and eventually reach Pangong lake where we will check in to our cottages where we will have dinner followed by an overnight stay. Spend the night under the starry sky,
Day 5: Pangong to Leh
After waking up to the beautiful view of Pangong lake, we will have breakfast in the early morning and traversing through Chang La Pass (17,688 Ft.), which is one of the highest passes in the world, we will head back to Leh. Pangong to Leh distance is approx 224 kms. En route we will visit Shey palace, famous for its gold glided Buddha statue. We will also pay reverence at Thiksey monastery and reach Leh. We will check in to our designated hotel, have dinner and stay overnight at the hotel.
Day 6: Departure to Leh Airport
Post breakfast we will check out of our hotel and bid bye to each other and disperse to their respective cities according to their own scheduled departure.
Note: Book your return flight for this day after consulting with your designated travel consultant. Please note that the drop-off time is fixed for 9 AM in the morning and hence we advise you to manage your travel plans accordingly.
Thrilling Activities to Do in Nubra Valley
Let us explore what are the activities that you can do in Nubra valley.
- ATV rides: If you are looking for a thrill and adventure in Nubra valley, then ATV rides at Hunder is an absolute must.
- Adventurous bike ride via Khardung La: Ride through the world’s highest motorable pass, which is located at an altitude of 17,982 ft.
- Bactrian Camel Ride: Experience a camel safari on a double humped Bactrian camel, enjoy the sand dunes and the picturesque snow-capped mountain views.
- Stargazing in the clear night skies: Nubra valley offers breathtaking night skies. Hunder, Turtuk, and Diskit are ideal spots for stargazing.
So, thrill by day and experience celestial beauty by night, what an ultimate combo for adrenaline junkies.
Know More: Things to do in Nubra Valley
Pro Tips for an Epic Nubra Valley Expedition
- Nubra valley is located at lower altitude, so it is a good place to acclimatize.
- Spend at least a day at Leh before heading to Nubra valley.
- At night the Nubra valley temperature drops significantly, do not forget to carry woollen clothes.
- Do not forget to carry water bottles. It is really important to stay hydrated in Ladakh due to its high altitude.
- It is advisable to avoid alcohol throughout the Ladakh trip.
- BSNL and Jio postpaid works best in Nubra but expect weak or no connectivity in remote regions.
FAQs
Nubra river originates from which glacier?
The Nubra river originates from the Siachen glacier. Later it joins the Shyok river. The melting water of Siachen glacier is the vital source of Nubra river. Siachen glacier is the second longest non polar glacier in the world.
Why is Nubra Valley so famous?
Nubra valley is known for its breathtaking landscapes, it is a mix of lush green villages and sand dunes. Turtuk village is a hidden gem located on the Indo-Pak border in Nubra valley. You can do ATV rides, camel rides in sand dunes and camping near Hunder in Nubra valley.
How far is Nubra valley from Leh?
We can reach Nubra valley from Leh via road. Leh to Nubra valley distance is almost 160 kms.
Is Turtuk Village worth visiting?
Turtuk is worth visiting because it is a beautiful village located in the Nubra valley. The place has a cultural blend of Pakistan and India. Turtuk has an arid climate; it experiences hot summers and cold winters.
Step Into a Land of Endless Wonders – Explore Nubra Valley Now!
