Turtuk village is a remote and picturesque village in the Nubra valley of Ladakh. It is the northernmost village in India. Known for its stunning landscapes, apricot orchards and Balti culture. Turtuk is 205 kms away from Leh. It is located on the bank of Shyok river.
Immerse yourself in the Balti culture and explore the narrow lanes and stone houses. Turtuk was once part of the ancient silk route, connecting India, China and central Asia. The village has Poplar and willow trees. Turtuk village appears absolutely delightful in the summer season, covered with apricot blooms and walnuts.
It is known as the last village of India in Ladakh. Turtuk’s altitude is 3,001 meters (9,846 feet) above sea level. It is one of the lowest-altitude villages in Ladakh, which gives it a relatively milder climate compared to other high-altitude areas in the region. Tourism in Turtuk village started in 2010 in Turtuk as until then it was closed. Turtuk village tour is a heavenly experience in itself. Here is a comprehensive guide for you which will facilitate your travel planning. Find out the best time, how to reach and nearby places to explore around Turtuk village.
Explore the Remotest Village of Ladakh
How to Reach Turtuk Village
Turtuk is located in the Nubra valley, before heading to Turtuk, you need to reach Leh. Leh is well connected by major Indian cities.
By Air
There are direct flights from Delhi, Mumbai,Srinagar, Chandigarh, and Jammu. You can reach the nearest airport located in Leh from these cities, and then hire a cab or taxi in order to reach Nubra valley.
By Road
You can take either of the routes in order to reach Turtuk, firstly you need to reach Leh by taking any of the routes.
- Manali to Leh
- Manali to Sarchu to Leh
- Srinagar to Kargil to Leh
After reaching Leh, hire a taxi or a cab to reach Turtuk.
Best Time to Visit in Turtuk Village
Turtuk village is worth visiting in summer season because it transforms into a paradise where you get to see barren mountains with the fusion of greenery. Let us find out which months are the best for visiting Turtuk village.
Summer (May to June)
The ideal time to visit Turtuk village is the summer season(May and June). During the summer season, the roads are accessible to Turtuk from Leh. Summer is the best time to witness apricot bloom. The temperature ranges from 5°C to 10°C. The weather remains pleasant and favorable.
Monsoon (July to September)
During monsoon Turtuk is less crowded as compared to summer season, if you want to witness apricot blossoms, lush green fields and the fruit laden apricot trees then it is the best season for witnessing such beauty. During the monsoon this place does not receive snowfall because of the desert region but it might be dangerous because of the melted snow.
Winter (September –March)
During the winter season, the temperature ranges from -6°C to 22°C. The temperature mostly remains below zero degrees. The village gets covered with snow in winter. Most guesthouses and homestays remain closed during winter as it gets extremely cold.
Things to Do in Turtuk Village
Explore the Village & Its Culture
Turtuk village in Ladakh was once part of Baltistan (now in Pakistan), and its people still follow the rich Balti customs, language, and cuisine. You can visit the Balti house and museum that showcases the Balti culture. There are ancient artifacts, traditional attire, and historic photographs. The village has The people of Turtuk are Muslim Baltis, and their culture is a mix of Tibetan, Central Asian, and Ladakhi influences.
Walk along the Shyok river
Walking along the Shyok river is a serene experience. The river is often called the “River of death” due to the unpredictable current flowing through the rugged valleys of Ladakh. The turquoise blue water in contrast with the brown valley along the lush green patches of Turtuk looks aesthetically pleasing.
Try Local Apricots & Dry Fruits
Turtuk is famous for its apricots, which you can get in the form of jams, oil, and you can buy organic apricots and walnuts as souvenirs.
Nearby places to explore around Turtuk village
Tutuk offers a unique experience as there are a plethora of places to visit in Turtuk village, each place will make you spellbound with its charm and ethereal beauty.
Hunder
Hunder is famous for its cold desert, sand dunes and double-humped bactrian camels. It is a rare species found in Central Asia. You can do a camel ride and stay in camps under the starry night.
Diskit monastery
Diskit monastery is the oldest and the largest monastery in the Nubra valley. It offers panoramic views of Nubra valley. Known for its 108 ft Maitreya Buddha statue. The statue is the embodiment of peace and non violence. It is a red and golden color statue that stands atop the hill facing Shyok river.
Panamik hotsprings
Panamik hot springs is located at a distance of approix. 150 kms from Turtuk. The water temperature ranges from 50 to 80 degrees Celsius. The water contains a high amount of sulphur, believed to have medicinal properties. A relaxing dip in the warm sulfur springs is a great way to unwind. Panamik is the last civilian village before Siachen base camp.
Samstanling Monastery
Samstanling monastery is 150 years old Buddhist monastery located in Sumur village. The monastery has beautiful frescoes, prayer wheels, and a tranquil atmosphere. Samstanling monastery offers beautiful landscapes and insights to authentic Ladakhi culture. Sumur village is very peaceful and the monastery remains less crowded as compared to Diskit Monastery.
Best Itinerary For Turtuk Village
We have got you the best itinerary if you want to explore this offbeat place in Ladakh. You will surely be mesmerized by the beauty of Turtuk village.
- Day 1: Arrival at Leh Airport | Acclimatization Day
- Day 2: Leh Sightseeing Day
- Day 3: Leh to Nubra Valley (130 Kms) Via Khardung La
- Day 4: Nubra to Turtuk (170 Kms) | Last Village of India on Indo-Pak border
- Day 5: Nubra Valley to Pangong (180 Kms) Via Diskit Monastery
- Day 6: Pangong to Tso-Moriri (180 Kms)
- Day 7: Tso- Moriri to Leh (220 Kms) Via Shey Palace and Thiksey Monastery
- Day 8: Departure to Leh Airport | Tour Ends
To read the detailed Itinerary click here.
Where to stay
Turtuk village in Ladakh offers a variety of accommodation options, there are guesthouses, luxury camps and homestays giving visitors a chance to experience the authentic Balti culture and hospitality.
Here are some of the best Hotels and campsites that you can consider while on your trip for the stay.
- Maha Guest House
- Hotel The Stone Palace
- Turtuk Holiday
- Buckwheat Root camp
What to eat
Turtuk’s cuisine is different from the mainstream cuisine. It is a blend of Balti, central Asian and Ladakhi cuisines. If you are in Turtuk, then you should not miss out on these traditional Balti dishes. The dishes are usually made of freshly grown grains (buckwheat), apricots, and little spices. Since Turtuk is one of the few places in India with Balti heritage, it differs typically from Ladakhi or Tibetan cuisine.
- Skyu (Balti Stew): It is a traditional mix of Balti and Ladakhi stew, made with hand-pressed wheat dough, vegetables, and sometimes meat, it is a comfort food providing energy during chilly winter in high altitude region.
- Khambir( Balti bread): It is a thick wholewheat bread traditionally eaten with butter, apricot jam, or curry.
- Apricot based dishes: Apricot can be used in various forms in Turtuk village, it can be used to make jams, cooking oil and dried apricots can be used in desserts and eaten as snacks.
- Butter Tea: A warm, salty butter tea made with milk, salt, and yak butter
Here are the best places where you can eat.
- Border Cafe and Camp
- The Ullah
- Wooden Bridge cafe and Turtuk Momos House
- The Turtuk Kitchen
Travel Tips For Visiting Turtuk Village
- Inner line Permit(ILP) is required for the travelers. You can get it online or from the Leh DC Office.
- Acclimatize for atleast 1 day at Leh then move forward to your Turtuk journey.
- Carry medicines for altitude sickness, cold and headaches.
- Stay hydrated and carry water bottle throughout your traveling journey.
- Avoid alcohol and smoking, which can cause dehydration.
FAQs
What is Turtuk famous for?
Turtuk village is the last village before Pakistan, located 7 kms from the Line of Control. It is known for its stunning landscapes, rich Balti culture and history. Turtuk is famous for its sweet apricots, walnuts. Due to its contrasting beauty of desert and greenery, the village attracts a lot of tourists, it is also one of the gateways to Siachen glacier. Turtle village is still less commercialised,it offers a peaceful retreat for those who are looking for authentic village life experience.
Can we see Pakistan from Turtuk village?
You cannot see Pakistan from Turtuk because it is located 7 kms away from the Line of Control. You can catch glimpses of Pakistan-administered Baltistan on a clear day from the high altitude spots.
Technically Thang village is the last village which is located around 2 km away from the LoC. Thang offers a direct view of Pakistani villages and the army. But you need to register with the Indian army before entering because the entry of civilians is restricted.
Can K2 be seen from Turtuk?
K2 cannot be seen from Turtuk. K2 is located in the Karakoram range in Pakistan administered Gilgit-Baltistan , which is approx. 140 kms away from Turtuk. The high peaks of Kumarakon range block the view of K2 from Turtuk. In order to see K2, you need to visit Skardu (Pakistan-administered Baltistan) which is the main gateway to K2 base camp.
Is Turtuk the last village of India?
Turtuk is said to be the last village of India, but technically Thang is the last village of India located just 2km before the Line of Control(LoC). Tyakshi is another Balti village where tourist movement is allowed after Turtuk village.