Nubra Valley is one of the most popular travel destinations in India for international tourists. It is renowned for its beautiful landscapes that feature ever changing mountain ranges as well as unique desert scenery. Travelling from Leh to Nubra Valley is one of the best travel experiences in Ladakh. This travel guide covers important information to help you plan your trip: routes to travel, distance, guide to permits, travel during peak tourist season, and travel tips.
How far is it from Leh to Nubra Valley?
The distance from Leh to Nubra Valley is 120 to 125 kilometers and depends on the destination you choose in Nubra Valley – Diskit or Hunder. Regardless of the relatively short distance, you will have an exhilarating travel experience as you traverse high-altitude mountain ranges and complicated winding roads.
What is the best travel route from Leh to Nubra Valley?
Leh – Khardung La – Khardung – Diskit – Hunder
If you are looking for the most beautiful scenery and best maintained roads, this is your best travel route. Starting from Leh, you will be on a climbing road that will take you to the Khardung La Pass (the highest motorable road in the world). Once you cross the pass, you will begin your descent and will travel through the village of Khardung before you reach Diskit. Hunder is the last stop before you finish Nubra Valley.
Travel Time from Leh to Nubra Valley
Traveling to Nubra Valley from Leh takes about 4 to 6 hours, depending on weather, traffic, and road conditions. Leaving Leh early is recommended to arrive at Nubra Valley before sundown.
Best Time to Travel from Leh to Nubra Valley
Traveling after mid September is not recommended since Nubra Valley is located in an area that receives little rain. Warmer and more stable weather means that May to September is the best time to travel to Nubra Valley.
Road Conditions & Driving Tips
While most roads on the Leh-Nubra route are paved, some may be in poor condition. Driving quickly is not recommended as the roads are rough, and losing too much air pressure during the drive may worsen altitude sickness. Bring plenty of fuel, snacks, and medicine as roadside assistance is not available.
Permits for Indian Nationals and Foreigners
To visit the Nubra Valley from Leh, Indian Nationals require an Inner Line Permit while Foreigners require a Protected Area Permit. These can be acquired online or at the DC Office in Leh before starting the journey.
Things to Do in Nubra Valley
Nubra Valley offers a variety of landscapes as well as cultural and historical relics. Some of the places to visit include Diskit Monastery, the sand dunes of Hunder where you can ride double-humped Bactrian camels, the hot springs at Panamik, and the beautiful historical villages of Turtuk and Sumur.
Accommodation in Nubra Valley
The available forms of accommodation in Nubra Valley are varied, ranging from budget guesthouses to boutique hotels and luxury camps. Diskit and Hunder are the best places for lodging as most of the important sites are accessible from there and they offer quality facilities for travelers.
Who can make the journey from Leh to Nubra Valley?
This trip is designed for adventure lovers, photographers, and nature enthusiasts, and is especially suited for new travelers to Ladakh. Families can also take the trip as long as they have sufficiently acclimatized and planned.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. How long is the route from Leh to Nubra Valley?
The route is approximately 120 to 125 kilometers but can vary based on what location you are going to in Nubra Valley.
Q2. How long will it take to go to Nubra Valley from Leh?
Travel via road would take around 4 to 6 hours.
Q3. Does the route from Leh to Nubra Valley include Khardung La?
Yes, Khardung La Pass is one of the most prominent features along the route.
Q4. Do you need an Inner Line Permit for Nubra Valley?
Yes, Indian travelers are required an Inner Line Permit.
Q5. Is it safe for first timers to travel from Leh to Nubra Valley?
Yes, provided that travelers have to acclimatize and drive carefully.
Q6. When is the ideal time to travel to Nubra Valley from Leh?
Travel is best within the window of May to September, as roads are clear and weather is benign.