Nubra Valley Sightseeing
February 15, 2023
Nubra Valley is one of the most beautiful and heavenly places in the world. There is a lot to see and many things to do in Nubra Valley. Nubra Valley Sightseeing includes bucket list items such as hot springs, cold dunes, camel safari, stargazing, ancient Buddhist monasteries, and more. Let’s examine these experiences in detail:
1. Shayok River: This is a stunning tributary of the Indus River and runs through Nubra Valley and Shayok Valley. The Nubra River flows into it, creating some unusual turns, beautiful river beds, and spectacular, riverside landscapes.
No visit to Nubra Valley is complete without seeing, and if possible, touching the flowing waters of these rivers. The name “Shayok” is sometimes mistranslated as “river of Death” but in fact, it means “river that spreads gravel.”
2. Hot Springs – In the high altitude and cold temperatures of Nubra Valley, there are natural hot springs that contain sulfur and other minerals that have important therapeutic properties. These waters nourish the skin and cure skin diseases and other ailments like rheumatism.
At Panamik, a small village in Nubra Valley, one can take a dip in these hot springs. A minimal charge of Rs. 20 gives you access to the hot springs, cabins for changing, and separate stalls for men and women.
3. Samstanling Monastery: Buddhist Monasteries are one of the trademarks of Ladakh and an important fixture in the landscape of the region. One of the best and most representative of these monasteries is Samstanling Monastery or “Samstanling Gompha” in the village summer.
Its red, white, and gold motifs have a calming effect as soon one sees it, and the inside ambiance ones one of sacred silence and profundity. Guests are welcomed by a young child who ties a traditional red thread on their wrists and upon entering, guests can see some authentic Buddhist paintings ON the walls and idols of Lord Buddha in the main prayer hall.
4. Stargazing: Due to its high altitude, cloudless weather conditions, and the complete absence of pollution, Nubra Valley is perfect for stargazing. At night, the Nubra Valley sky comes alive with celestial events and heavenly bodies. On clear nights, One can spot most major constellations on clear nights ye.
The Lchang Nang Retreat – The House of Trees in Nubra Valley even organizes nights when guests can camp out in the open and participate in stargazing with the help of knowledgeable astronomers and powerful telescopes.
5. Cold Sand Dunes: In parts of Nubra Valley, one can see the strange anomaly of “Cold Deserts” replete with dunes and camels. Near the village of Hundur, one can go on camelback rides and even ride bikes and RTVs in the sand.
6. Camel Safari: High in the Himalayas, one can see camels and even go on camel rides in Nubra Valley. But these are not ordinary camels. These are the famed Bactrian Camel central Asia and were heavily sought after throughout history.
Today, these camels are quaint remnants of the ancient Silk Route that played a historic role in connecting India to China and Central Asia. They are characterized by their double humps and their unique appearance that seems to go well with the ethereal feel of the Valley.
7. Apricot Orchards: In the mostly barren and austere landscape of Nubra Valley, there are apricots and Apple orchards that produce some of the best fruits in the world. In sporadic cases along the rivers Nubra and Shayok and near villages, one can pick and eat fresh apricots.
8. Lchang Nang Retreat – The House of Trees: One of the best hotels and resorts in Nubra Valley, the Lchang Nang Retreat – The House of Trees promotes ecotourism and represents the rich tradition of the legendary warm hospitality of the Ladakhi people.
The Resort is completely made up of sustainable materials and has a negligible carbon footprint. On some nights they host stargazing sessions, picnics, and outdoor films that are a hit with guests.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Is Nubra Valley hard to visit?
Ans. Contrary to popular belief, Nubra Valley is not very hard to visit. It is at a high altitude where temperatures can get quite low but the roads are usually open throughout the year and the infrastructure is quite solid. Several army camps in the area are always helpful ad a steady stream of tourists visits it every year.
Q2. Do you need a permit to visit Nubra Valley?
Ans. Yes. Due to its proximity to the border, all visitors to Nubra Valley require a permit that can be easily obtained.
Q3. Is Nubra Valley safe to visit?
Ans. Nubra Valley is very safe to visit and there are no problems that can cause any impediment to tourists. There are army camps in the region that are always helpful and the civilian infrastructure is quite strong. Tourism is an important aspect of the economy and tourists are well taken care of.
Q4. Is Nubra Valley open in the winter?
Ans. Nubra Valley is open throughout the year. Although the normal tourist season runs from May to october, one can travel there anytime.
Q5. What is the best way to travel to Nubra Valley?
Ans. The best way to travel to Nubra Valley is to go to Leh, the capital of Ladakh by air and then on to Nubra Valley by road.
Q6. Can anyone stay at Lchang Nang Retreat – The House of Trees?
Ans. Yes. Anyone of any nationality can stay at Lchang Nang Retreat – The House of Trees provided they have a reservation and the resort has rooms or cottages that are available. The resort is open throughout the year and is one of the best places to stay in the area.