Nubra valley: A 3 Day Itinerary | Nubra valley Travel Guide for sightseeing

First Published on July 19, 2023

About 140 km north of Leh, far beyond the formidable Khardung La pass is the high altitude cold desert called Nubra. As one crosses the K-Top and descends down the rugged rock-strewn mountains, the geography remarkably changes into a wonderland consisting of lush green fields of poplar groves, orchards of fruits and nuts and tiny hamlets along the rivers that meander in the valleys cradled between the jagged mountains. Traveling through valley felt as if I was watching a movie on one of the travel channels like National Geographic. Indeed, that is what you will be experiencing through this Nubra Valley Tour.

This travel guide has answers to most of your questions pertaining to your proposed visit. From things to see in Nubra Valley to how to get there, where to stay, what to pack – you have it all in this mega post. However, while you get all that information, you will also be treated to the best of area sightseeing through my own experience here. Hope you are ready for this whirlwind of a tour through Nubra valley.

Facts about Nubra Valley

The diverse landscape of Nubra Valley in Ladakh

Located along the Northern border of India, a little below the famed Siachen glacier, is the Nubra Valley. It actually encompasses two valleys formed by rivers Shyok and Nubra, both of which originate from the glaciers in the troughs and peaks of the mighty Karakoram range. Particularly, this valley is quite unlike the valleys that one has heard of – green in some parts but a cold desert in many others and a little rocky in some, the Valley really surprised me with its essence and tones.

The name Nubra in Ladakhi means Western. The valley was originally called Ldumra which in Tibetan means “Valley of Flowers” – on account of the blossoms that still spring between June to August. The strange contrast of landforms has some interesting facts attached to them. Here are some of those facts about the valley.

• Nubra Valley Ladakh is 3000m above sea level – which places it at a lower altitude as compared to Leh. This makes acclimatization to Ladakh much easier.
• The valley has earned an epithet of being the Orchard of Ladakh owing to its numerous plantations -especially those of Apricots.
• The Shyok river that flows through this cold desert valley is called the river of death. This is because it originates from a part of the Siachen glacier called the Rimo glacier and flows extremely fast – making it so hard for people to cross it.

Shyok river – Also called the river of death flowing through Nubra Valley

History of Nubra Valley

Nubra Valley was a crucial setting during the bygone era as it was one of the key places that lay along the historic silk route. The area used to be headed by the tribal chiefs and had a huge Tibetan influence. It is still evident in all the monasteries in the Valley – the oldest one being the 15th-century Diskit Monastery. During the 16th century, the valley was ruled by the Namgyal dynasty of Ladakh.

Diskit Monastery – the oldest living part of the Nubra Valley history

Before independence, several areas of the valley were included in Pakistan. But during 1971 Indo-Pak war, India reclaimed four of the villages of Nubra Valley. These included Turtuk, Chalunka, Tyakshi and Thang. Until 2010, these villages remained off-limits for travelers. But now with a special Permit, you can visit all these parts and experience the indigenious Muslim – Balti culture.

The Siachen Glacier in Nubra Valley is another conflict-ridden site. In fact, it has earned the term of being the highest battlefield in the world. Until 2019, no one was allowed here except for the Indian army. Now, with the relevant permits, you can trek up to a certain level of the Siachen glacier.

Things to do in the Valley | The ultimate Nubra Valley Sightseeing List

As you explore the best things to do in Nubra Valley, you will notice that it has something for everyone. You will experience eccentric cultures or capture surreal beauty and get a dose of adrenaline through adventure activities. The valley has a plethora of activities to be experienced. I will cover five major stretches in the valley which are worth visiting – 

• Diskit 
• Hunder
• Sumur
• Turtuk 
• Panamik

So let’s begin.

Make a brief stop at the Khardung La pass

Driving through Khardung La, one of the highest motorable passes in the world

Khardung La is one of the highest motorable passes in the world with an elevation of 5,359 m above sea level. It’s an excellant visit – and one that you cannot avoid when traveling from Leh to Nubra Valley. A quick break to capture the snowy surroundings and to have a quick coffee in the canteen is highly recommended.

However, do not spend more than 15 minutes here lest you may get hit by AMS (Read about AMS right here). As you drive down the pass, watch out for the green patch with a beautiful stream. This is the Tsolding Buddha park and this too, is a great place to spend some time. You might even catch Yaks crossing the stream just as I did.

Experience the barren mountains and calming reflections 

The colors of Nubra Valley with water streams flowing through it

You don’t have to go to specific vantage points to experience the beauty of the Valley. From the time you begin your journey from Leh to Nubra Valley, you will witness the uncanny charm of the land.

A few kilometers past Khardung La had me turn back constantly. The snow will vanish gradually as you reach the North Pullu, a small cantonment halt on the way. There are 1-2 small cafes where you can relax a bit. As you move further, a whole landscape will suddenly turn rocky wonderland with some streams flowing around here and there. Patches of blooms would just appear to interrupt the otherwise, sandy yet artistic landscape.

There is a certain beauty in these barren mountains that you are bound to gasp over. It seems unearthly as you capture the most amazing reflections on the crystal clear water and sunlight on the way.. Be it just the calm beauty of those barren mountains or the stunning beasts that they shelter.

Visit Diskit Monastery in Nubra Valley

Jhampa statue of Maitreya Buddha at Diskit in Nubra Valley

One of the primary halts in your Nubra Valley Tour will be the Diskit monastery. This lamasery atop a hill looks quite awe-inspiring and is the largest one in the Valley. The place had a very impressive prayer hall, a Maitreya Buddha statue within and some unusual Buddhist guardian statues within. The monastery has a another landmark of a magnificent Buddha statue which is located on the ridge of another hill. It is the most accessible place where travelers can reach even with their vehicles. 

This 32 feet statue dominates the sky and faces the Shyok river. The Jhampa statue is a recent addition to this old monastery and was constructed in 2010 with all the donations that the place got. The statue is said to be a symbol of world peace and specifically, aims at preventing a clash with Pakistan. Hence, it has been built to face the country. It is said to bring peace and protection to the Nubra Valley below.

The day being clear, I got multiple shots of this statue from every possible angle. It might sound crazy but each angle gave me something new to admire in this statue. Like the side view showcases a statue with an aerial view of a monastery on another hill.

Feel the sand dunes at Hunder

A view of Indo-Pakistan border

The cold desert of Ladakh makes its appearance in Nubra valley in the most bizarre manner as one leaves Diskit monastery and heads to Hunder, Gone were the rocky formations and all you could see were miles of free flowing, ever-shifting sand dunes. It was as if nature was showcasing its best all in one place.

Meet the cutest animals – the bactrian camels of Nubra Valley

About 10 km west of Diskit is a picturesque hamlet named Hunder which sits like a tiny oasis in the middle of the cold desert of Nubra. The hamlet is abundant with sea buckthorn grown in abundance in the sand dunes along the Shayok river.  

Hunder is also famous for its double-humped Bactrian camels. They are the native species of this region especially throughout the cold desert of Ladakh, Tibet and Mongolia. In fact, they were the prime means for crossing the Nubra Valley desert for the tradesmen on the silk route. Woefully, these camels now are all tagged for tourist activities which include camel riding. Even the babies are strung along.

Head to Turtuk – the last village of India

Fields in Turtuk full of pulses and fruits

Going further north from Hunder, one reaches Turtuk, the last Balti village on the northernmost frontier of India which remained inaccessible for visitors till the year 2010. Turtuk which is just 10km away from Indo-Pak border is greener than the Nubra valley owing to its lower altitude. Turtuk is a cultural hub where a unique culture called Balti prevails. The people speak a different language that has no script and practice Islam.The melange of barley and mustard fields, apricot and walnut trees, the gurgling stream dividing the village into two regions- Farol and Youl which are connected by a wooden bridge- all seems like poetry to eyes. A night stay here is highly recommended to enjoy its folk dances and to learn about their unique rituals.

Explore the Samstanling Monastery in Sumur

The sand dunes of Hunder in Nubra Valley

As one moves further north of the Shyok river, there is another hamlet called Sumur and it has Samstanling monastery. This monastery is the 2nd largest monastery in the Valley and is renowned for its gorgeous murals. A visit here entails a trek – an activity that most adventure-loving travelers would totally enjoy. While in Sumur, you can even plan to visit the Yarab Tso Lake – a tranquil water body that captures the most amazing reflections of the landscape.

Dip into the Panamik hot spring in Panamik

Panamik is one of the key villages in Nubra Valley and is famous for its hot sulphur springs. People come here to have a bath in these springs as it has anti-inflammatory properties. Ensa Monastery is the other Nubra Valley attraction that is located in this village. It is 250 years old and is home to ancient Buddhist scripts and murals 

Add a drive to Siachen Glacier in your trip

A small break on the way to Turtuk, a border village

Until 2019, Siachen glacier was out of bounds for tourists. The closest you could go was Panamik village in Nubra Valley. Now, with the Nubra Valley permit, you can get to the base camp of Siachen Glacier and see some of what is called the highest battlefield in the world.

Suggested Nubra Valley itinerary

Is it possible to do a day trip to Nubra Valley? – This is a common question I hear often.. My answer is – Yes, you can but it will just be a tick mark on your Ladakh attraction. You can never get the full flavor of the valley unless you have spent at least one night here. Ideally, I would recommend two nights. It is a good idea even from the perspective of your health. Given that this is at a lower altitude as compared to Leh, the acclimatization is much better here,. 

Here is my recommended Nubra Valley itinerary for 2 nights – 

• Leave Leh in the morning and cross Khardung La to start your journey towards Diskit monastery. Have lunch in Diskit and explore the Maitreyi Buddha.
• Stay the night at Diskit or continue onto Hunder to spend the night there. You can stop at the various sand dunes on the way.
• If time is of the essence, you can head back to Leh or Pangong the next day. Else, continue towards Turtuk the next day and check into a home stay here. Experience the Balti culture before heading back to Leh.
• An alternative to the above itinerary would be to head to Panamik via Sumur and visit the hot springs. 

If you wish to include all of it, then you would need at least 3 – 4 nights in Nubra Valley, especially if you are opting for one of those treks.

How to get to Nubra Valley in Ladakh?

Once in Leh, you can either hire a vehicle or get a cab to get to Valley. The route that you will need to follow is as below:

Leh – Khardung La Pass – Khalsar – Diskit

The total distance from Leh to Nubra Valley (Diskit) is 116 km. The drive will take you at least 5 hours. You will have to travel through Khardung La – which is one of the world’s highest passes. The roads from Leh to Nubra are pretty smooth and the drive pleasant.

There are quite a few buses and shared cabs active at the Leh Bus stand that go all the way to Diskit and Hunder. You can use these as well to get to Nubra Valley.

What is the best time to visit Nubra Valley?

A one-day Nubra valley itinerary is possible but is not ideal

May to September is the best time to visit Nubra Valley. If you happen to go in the early part of May, then you will be able to experience loads of snow and see the apricot orchards in full bloom. 

Where can you stay in Nubra Valley?

Homestays are the only stay options in Turtuk

In summers, there would be sufficient options to stay in the valley. All the hotels and camps will be operational. Some are located next to the Shyok river and the stay there is comfortable and relaxing.

During winter, most of the Nubra Valley inns and camps remain closed and your stay options become limited to homestays. 

Where can you eat in Nubra Valley?

Travel Tips: There are very few cafes in Tyakshi but have a tasty food

When on the road from Leh to Nubra Valley, you can stop for a food break at Khalsar. Once you reach any of the villages in Nubra Valley, you can head to the homestays or inns for your meals. Some serve a variety from Indian to Continental and Chinese dishes while mostly they serve simple home cooked food. 

Do you need a permit to visit Nubra Valley in Ladakh?

Yes, whether you are an Indian or a foreign national visiting Nubra Valley in Ladakh, you will have to get a permit to visit this region. Indians have to get the Inner Line Permits and the foreigners need the Protected Area Permits. The process for both is similar. You can either apply online through this website, print the form and get it stamped at the Leh office. Alternatively, you can go directly to the Leh office and get it. You need to provide your Government ID and pay INR 420 for the same. Most of the cab operators and hotels in Leh also help you out with these permits. Check out more details through this Ladakh travel guide.

What should I pack for a Nubra Valley Tour?

A road trip to Nubra valley by road is just stunning

Though it will not be as cold as Leh, you will still need to dress in layers. Here is a list that I think will help you pack for this trip.
– Clothes – Carry thermals, a down jacket, caps to protect your ears, gloves, all weather shoes and socks. Dress in layers as it is cold all through the year.
– Cameras – A wide angle lens and a regular prime lens should be good enough
– Sunglasses – A good quality sunglasses would work just fine.
– Snacks – Carry dry fruits or energy bars. Lots of water for the road and also, a some snacks.
– Medicines – Besides your regular medications, carry a few diamox tablets to help with any possible AMS or motion sickness. 

What are the important travel tips for a visit to Nubra valley?

– It is better to spend a day in Leh acclimatizing to the altitude before you head to Nubra Valley. This is to avoid AMS as you climb atop Khardung La.
– Ensure that you book your hotel or tent well in advance as these places are often quite full during the season – June to September.
– The entrance fees for Diskit monastery is INR 30 and you can visit it anytime between 7 am-1pm & 2-7 pm.
– There are no ATMs in the valley.
– There are no petrol pumps on the way from Leh to Nubra Valley. Once you reach Diskit, you will find the only one that is available in this region.
– Phone signals are limited to Airtel Postpaid and BSNL. No other networks work in the area. Even with these two connections, you will have distorted connections.

What are the important travel tips for a visit to Nubra valley?

– It is better to spend a day in Leh acclimatizing to the altitude before you head to Nubra Valley. This is to avoid AMSas you climb atop Khardung La. Staying in valley will further assist your acclimatization as this is at a lower altitude.
– Ensure that you book your hotel or tent well in advance as these places are often quite full during the season – June to September. 
– The entrance fees for Diskit monastery is INR 30 and you can visit it anytime between 7 am-1pm & 2-7 pm
– There are no ATMs in the valley
– There are no petrol bunks on the way from Leh to Nubra. Once you reach Diskit, you will find the only one that is available in this region.
– Phone signals are limited to Airtel Postpaid and BSNL. No other networks work in the vicinity. Even with these two connections, you will have patches of no signal.

Hence, explore the hidden beauty around Nubra Valley, be it the villages or Valleys all around. They are really worth visiting places in Leh-Ladakh. Indeed, People from all over the country visit Leh but often miss these places. So, next time when you plan to visit Leh-Ladakh, go beyond the obvious.

That’s all in this travel blog if you’ve any suggestions to add, please leave a comment below. You can also reach us on Instagram.

TRAVEL DIFFERENTLY!

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