Nubra Valley is one of the most beautiful and unique places in Ladakh. Surrounded by tall mountains and filled with white sand dunes, green villages and ancient monasteries, Nubra feels like a world of its own. It lies at an average altitude of 10,000 feet (3,048 meters) and is located north of Leh, beyond the famous Khardung La Pass.
This valley was once part of the ancient Silk Route, where traders passed through with goods, stories and cultures. Today, it offers travelers a mix of Himalayan beauty, history and adventure.
The tributary of river Indus, Shyok meets Siachen river also known as Nubra forming a valley that separates Karakorum and Ladakh ranges. Shyok river that flows in the center of the valley is sure to fascinate the visitors.
🏜️ What Makes Nubra Valley Special?
Sand Dunes & Bactrian Camels
Yes, you read that right! Nubra has a cold desert with real sand dunes near Hunder village. You can see (and ride) Bactrian camels. Rare, double-humped camels once used on the Silk Route.
Shyok and Nubra Rivers
The valley is formed by two rivers that run through it. They create lush green patches and fertile land surrounded by barren mountains.
Diskit Monastery
This is the largest and oldest monastery in Nubra Valley. It’s over 500 years old and sits on a hilltop. It offers a beautiful view of the valley. A giant statue of Maitreya Buddha (32 meters tall) stands near it, blessing the valley and its people.
Turtuk – India’s Last Northern Village
Nubra also includes Turtuk, a remote village near the Pakistan border. Turtuk was part of Pakistan until 1971 and has a unique Balti culture, language and history. It feels different from the rest of Ladakh and is full of warm and welcoming people.
Leh Berry
Hunder is likewise the spot where you can discover forests of ocean buckthorn, a therapeutic plant rich in bio-particles, vitamins and nutritive properties and famously known as ‘Leh Berry‘.
🧭 Why Visit Nubra Valley?
- ✅ A blend of desert, rivers and mountains – all in one place
- ✅ Home to rare Bactrian camels and cold desert dunes
- ✅ Rich in history from the ancient Silk Route and Buddhist heritage
- ✅ Easy to reach from Leh – just a day’s ride away
- ✅ Peaceful villages, clear skies and stunning views
Travel Info
- Altitude: ~10,000 ft / 3,048 m
- Best Time to Visit: May to September
- Permits Required: Yes (Inner Line Permit for Indian citizens; Protected Area Permit for foreigners)
- Stay Options: Guesthouses, camps and homestays in Hunder, Diskit, Turtuk, and Sumur
- Road Access: Reachable via Khardung La from Leh and can also be reached directly from Pangong Lake.
🗣️ Traveler’s Tip:
“Start your day early to cross Khardung La before traffic builds. Stay at least two nights in Nubra to enjoy the dunes, monasteries and mountain sunsets.“