Upshi is a small but important village and road junction in Ladakh. Located on the banks of the Indus River, about 45 km southeast of Leh. Though not a major tourist destination itself, Upshi plays a key role in Ladakh’s travel routes. acting as the main junction for travelers heading to Tso Moriri, Hanle, Pangong or Manali via Tanglang La Pass. To the south of this village is Gya or Gia – a beautiful spot to visit.
Its strategic location has made Upshi a popular halt point for bikers and road trippers. A place to rest, refuel and regroup before continuing deeper into the high-altitude wilderness of Ladakh.
What makes Upshi beautiful is it’s residents. The hospitality of locals is beyond anything you see in your life. Locals are very poor people with basic needs, but when it comes to guest serving, they’ll make you feel proud.
🗺️ Why Is Upshi Important?
- Major Road Junction
Upshi is where the Leh-Manali Highway (NH3) meets the road to Tso Moriri and Hanle via Chumathang. It’s a common stop for those heading toward Changthang Plateau. - Proximity to Indus River
The village lies near the Indus River, offering peaceful riverside views and green farmlands. A contrast to the stark mountains around. - Ancient Trade Point
Historically, Upshi was part of the old trade route between Leh and Tibet, and traces of this heritage still remain in the form of village homes and stories passed down through generations.
🧭 Why Visit or Stop at Upshi?
- ✅ Convenient stop for rest and refreshments on long drives.
- ✅ Access point to Tso Moriri, Hanle, Nyoma, Chumathang, and Tanglang La.
- ✅ Riverside setting with beautiful views of the Indus Valley.
- ✅ Glimpse into village life in lower-altitude Ladakh.
- ✅ Lesser-known but useful for route planning and acclimatization.
🧳 Travel Info
- Altitude: ~11,200 ft / 3,414 m
- Distance from Leh: ~45 km (approx. 1 hour).
- Best Time to Visit: May to October (as part of a longer journey).
- Stay Options: Basic guesthouses and homestays (best for overnight halts).
- Mobile Network: BSNL and Jio usually available
- Nearby Spots: Hemis Monastery (on the way), Thiksey, Shey Palace and Chumathang hot springs further ahead.
🗣️ Traveler’s Tip:
“Stop here for tea, fuel, or food before heading to remote areas like Hanle or Tso Moriri. Upshi is the last point with decent services.“