Nubra Valley
A surreal high-altitude cold desert in Ladakh, featuring sand dunes, rare double-humped camels, and ancient monasteries.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather for exploration
Nubra Valley
Best Time
Pleasant weather for exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A surreal high-altitude cold desert in Ladakh, featuring sand dunes, rare double-humped camels, and ancient monasteries.
"Experience a unique desert safari at India's highest point with double-humped camels and lovely views."
🐪 Bactrian Camel Safari
Ride the unique double-humped camels at Hunder sand dunes for an unforgettable experience.
⛰️ Acclimatize in Leh
Spend a day in Leh to adjust to the altitude before heading to Nubra Valley.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Hunder Sand Dunes
Hunder
Experience a surreal cold desert with rare double-humped Bactrian camels. A unique safari experience amidst stunning landscapes.
Diskit Monastery
Diskit
Home to a giant Maitreya Buddha statue, offering panoramic valley views and a glimpse into Buddhist culture.
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Turtuk Village
Turtuk
A remote village near the Pakistan border, showcasing unique Balti culture and a glimpse into a simpler way of life.
Khardung La Pass
En route to Nubra Valley
One of the world's highest motorable passes, offering breathtaking mountain vistas and a thrilling ride.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Acclimatize Before Nubra
Best Travel Time & Permits
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🐪 Bactrian Camel Safari
Ride the unique double-humped camels at Hunder sand dunes for an unforgettable experience. +1
⛰️ Acclimatize in Leh
Spend a day in Leh to adjust to the altitude before heading to Nubra Valley.
🚗 Hire a Local Driver
Local drivers know the best routes and stops, ensuring a smooth and scenic journey.
🌌 Stargazing Camps
Stay in a camp for incredible stargazing opportunities in the clear desert sky.
Tips
from all over the internet
🐪 Bactrian Camel Safari
Ride the unique double-humped camels at Hunder sand dunes for an unforgettable experience. +1
⛰️ Acclimatize in Leh
Spend a day in Leh to adjust to the altitude before heading to Nubra Valley.
🚗 Hire a Local Driver
Local drivers know the best routes and stops, ensuring a smooth and scenic journey.
🌌 Stargazing Camps
Stay in a camp for incredible stargazing opportunities in the clear desert sky.
📸 Capture the Views
Keep your camera ready for stunning landscapes, monasteries, and unique desert scenes.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry water and stay hydrated, especially at high altitudes, to combat dryness and altitude effects.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Nubra Valley is celebrated for its unique high-altitude cold desert, rare double-humped camels, and stunning mountain scenery. Visitors rave about the camel safaris, the serene Diskit Monastery, and the scenic drives, especially via Khardung La Pass. Some find it slightly overcrowded during peak season, and the journey requires careful acclimatization to the altitude.
"Nice place. You will enjoy desert safari in India's highest point. Double humps camel ride, sand dunes and lovely views."
Archana Mohanty
"Good Place to spend a lazy afternoon.
Slightly over crowded. On the bed of Sayok river a river created small dessert formed on 1929.
Bactrian camel rides, archery etc events. Can be done there."
Swayam Dey
"The Nubra Valley is an amazing sand dunes desert at high altitude, surrounded by breathtaking mountains. It’s known as a high-altitude desert and is located just a few kilometers from Khardung La Pass.
When you visit Nubra Valley, you must try the camel safari. The two-humped camels found there are rare and can only be seen here in Nubra Valley, Ladakh, India.
And for the camel ride they usually charge around ₹500 per person I'm not sure about the current price.
If you want to experience the starlit sky, you can stay at one of the camps in Nubra Valley.
Talking about the route from Khardung La to Nubra Valley is absolutely beautiful. The road is straight in most parts, and along the way, you’ll come across small water crossings, stunning mountains, widely spread desert landscapes, and much more.
We really enjoyed the drive the scenic roads, the weather, and the whole experience. When you're visiting Leh Ladhak you must visit Nubra Valley if possible then from bike.
However, make sure to reach your destination before sunset, as there’s little to no street lighting, which can make traveling difficult after dark."
Ronak Mehta
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way to reach Nubra Valley from Leh is by road, typically via the Khardung La Pass. You can hire a private taxi or join a shared jeep. The journey takes about 5-6 hours and offers spectacular views.
Yes, many travelers opt for a bike trip to Nubra Valley, which is considered a highly scenic and adventurous way to experience the region. Ensure you have proper gear and experience for high-altitude biking.
The road to Nubra Valley, especially the Khardung La Pass, can be challenging with winding paths and occasional rough patches. However, it's generally well-maintained for most of the tourist season. +1
Yes, both domestic and international tourists need an Inner Line Permit (ILP) to visit Nubra Valley. These can be obtained online or through travel agents in Leh.
The drive from Leh to Nubra Valley typically takes around 5 to 6 hours, depending on road conditions and stops made along the way, especially at Khardung La Pass.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Camel rides in Hunder typically cost around ₹500 per person for a short ride, though prices can vary. It's advisable to confirm the current rates before you start your ride.
While there isn't a strict entrance fee for Diskit Monastery itself, donations are welcome. There might be a small fee for photography inside certain areas.
The best time to visit Nubra Valley is from April to October when the weather is pleasant. The peak tourist season is from June to August.
It is highly recommended to book accommodations in advance, especially during the peak season (June-August), to ensure availability and better pricing.
Diskit Monastery is generally open from sunrise to sunset, allowing visitors ample time to explore its grounds and admire the Maitreya Buddha statue.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Popular activities include Bactrian camel safaris in Hunder, visiting Diskit Monastery, exploring Turtuk village, and enjoying the scenic drives. Some adventure activities like ziplining are also available.
Nubra Valley is famous for its double-humped Bactrian camels, which are rare and were historically used on the Silk Route trade. +1
Yes, glamping is a popular option in Nubra Valley, offering a comfortable stay amidst the stunning natural beauty with views of the mountains and desert.
Nubra Valley is situated at an altitude of approximately 10,000 feet (around 3,048 meters) above sea level.
Milkha Point is a scenic spot on the way to Nubra Valley, offering breathtaking views of the vast landscapes and mountains, making it a popular photo stop.
📸 📸 Photography
Key photo spots include the Hunder sand dunes with camels, Diskit Monastery with its giant Buddha statue, the scenic drives along the Shyok River, and the panoramic views from Khardung La Pass.
While the scenery is stunning, be mindful of the cold and thin air. Protect your camera from extreme temperatures and ensure your batteries are fully charged, as cold can drain them faster.
Landscape photography is very popular, capturing the unique contrast of desert dunes against snow-capped mountains. Portrait photography with the Bactrian camels is also a hit.
Generally, photography is allowed in most outdoor areas. However, always respect local customs and ask for permission before photographing people or inside religious sites like monasteries.
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer hues. Sunrise and sunset over the dunes and mountains are particularly magical.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider staying in a glamping site for a comfortable family stay, often equipped with amenities that cater to families. While the journey involves high altitudes, ensuring proper acclimatization in Leh beforehand will make the trip smoother. Pack warm clothing and snacks, as facilities can be sparse between locations.
🚗 Adventure Seekers & Bikers
+1Beyond the drive, activities like ziplining at high altitudes offer an adrenaline rush. Exploring the remote villages and the unique desert landscape on two wheels or by hiring a sturdy vehicle allows for a deep immersion into the adventurous spirit of Ladakh.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1Don't miss the dramatic scenery along the Khardung La Pass and the winding roads leading into the valley. The remote villages like Turtuk offer a chance to capture authentic local life and culture. Remember to protect your gear from the cold and dust, and always be mindful of battery life in low temperatures.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Journey Through Khardung La Pass
The drive over Khardung La is characterized by dramatic landscapes, including rugged mountains, vast stretches of barren terrain, and occasional snow. Many travelers stop at the pass for photos and to experience the high-altitude environment. It's crucial to be prepared for the cold and potential altitude sickness.
Beyond the pass, the road descends into the Nubra Valley, revealing a starkly different yet equally captivating scenery. The route is dotted with small water crossings and offers glimpses of the Shyok River, adding to the adventurous feel of the journey.
Unique Wildlife: The Bactrian Camel
Taking a camel ride through the Hunder dunes is a quintessential Nubra Valley activity. The experience is surreal, with the vast desert stretching out before you, framed by snow-capped mountains. Unlike the single-humped camels found in other parts of India, the Bactrian camels are sturdier and adapted to the colder climate of Ladakh.
These camels are a living link to the region's history and a significant attraction for tourists. Interacting with these gentle giants and learning about their role in the region's past adds a deeper dimension to the Nubra Valley visit.
Cultural Immersion in Diskit and Turtuk
+1Further into the valley lies Turtuk, a village that was only opened to tourists in recent years. Located near the border with Pakistan, Turtuk offers a unique cultural experience with its distinct Balti heritage. The village is known for its apricot orchards, traditional houses, and the warm hospitality of its residents. It provides a fascinating insight into a community living in a remote and historically significant region.
Exploring these cultural sites allows visitors to understand the diverse influences that have shaped Nubra Valley, from its Buddhist roots to its strategic border location. The blend of natural grandeur and cultural depth makes Nubra Valley a truly captivating destination.
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Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit