Nubra Valley Tourism Guide: Places to Visit, Weather, Best Time & Travel Tips
Nubra Valley is one of the most stunning destinations in Ladakh, famous for its dramatic landscapes, cold desert, double-humped camels, and ancient monasteries. Located north of Leh, Nubra Valley is formed by the confluence of the Shyok and Nubra rivers, giving it a unique balance of barren mountains and lush green villages.
If you are planning a trip to Ladakh, Nubra Valley is a must-visit destination that offers adventure, culture, and breathtaking natural beauty. This blog covers everything—places to visit, best time, weather, permits, distances, how to reach, hotels, things to do, and important travel tips.
What is Nubra Valley Famous For?
- Hunder Sand Dunes
- Bactrian (double-humped) camels
- Diskit Monastery and the giant Maitreya Buddha
- Khardung La – once considered the highest motorable road
- Lush green villages surrounded by barren mountains
- Turtuk – India’s last village towards the Pakistan border
- Panamik hot springs
Where is Nubra Valley Located?
Nubra Valley lies around 120 km north of Leh, separated by the iconic Khardung La Pass. It is part of the Leh district in the Union Territory of Ladakh.
How to Reach Nubra Valley
1. Leh to Nubra Valley by Road
The most common route:
Leh → Khardung La → Khalsar → Diskit → Hunder
Distance: 120 km (approx)
Travel Time: 4–6 hours
The journey is extremely scenic with mountain views, snow patches (seasonal), and deep valleys.
2. Leh to Nubra Valley by Bike
Riding a bike to Nubra Valley is a dream for adventure lovers. Make sure to carry:
- Warm clothing
- Extra fuel
- Travel permit
- Basic toolkit and medicines
3. Public Transport
You can find:
- Shared cabs from Leh
- Limited bus services (not daily)
Best Time to Visit Nubra Valley
The best time to visit Nubra Valley is May to September, when the weather is pleasant, roads are open, and all tourist activities are available.
| Month | Weather |
|---|---|
| April–May | Cool weather, snow melts, roads reopen |
| June–August | Warm days, ideal for sightseeing and camel rides |
| September | Clear skies, perfect time for photography |
| October–March | Very cold, sub-zero temperatures, road closures possible |
Nubra Valley Weather & Temperature
Summer (May–August): 10°C to 25°C
Winter (November–February): -10°C to -20°C
Spring & Autumn: 5°C to 15°C
Nights are always colder than daytime, so carry warm clothes at all times.
Top Places to Visit in Nubra Valley
1. Hunder Sand Dunes
Home to Ladakh’s cold desert, these dunes are famous for:
- Bactrian camel rides
- Sunset photography
- Camping under the stars
2. Diskit Monastery
The oldest and largest monastery in Nubra Valley, known for the giant 106 feet Maitreya Buddha statue overlooking the valley.
3. Turtuk
A beautiful Balti village near the LOC, opened to tourists in 2010. Clean rivers, apricot orchards, and unique culture make it a must-visit.
4. Panamik Hot Springs
Natural hot water springs believed to have medicinal properties.
5. Sumur Village
A quiet village with a traditional lifestyle, perfect for peaceful stays.
6. Yarab Tso Lake
A hidden gem near Sumur, offering peaceful surroundings.
Adventure Activities in Nubra Valley
- Camel safari on double-humped camels
- ATV (quad bike) rides in the dunes
- River rafting (Shyok river – seasonal)
- Camping under the stars
- Photography & videography
- Motorcycle touring via Khardung La
Where to Stay in Nubra Valley
You can find:
- Luxury camps
- Budget guesthouses
- Homestays with local families
- Hotels in Diskit and Hunder
Popular places to stay:
- Hunder – perfect for sand dunes & camel rides
- Diskit – best for markets, monasteries, and connectivity
Food in Nubra Valley
Try:
- Thukpa
- Momos
- Butter tea
- Tandoori dishes (in guesthouses)
- Apricot-based desserts
Do You Need a Permit for Nubra Valley?
Yes, Nubra Valley is an Inner Line Permit (ILP) zone.
Foreigners require: Protected Area Permit (PAP)
Indians require: Inner Line Permit (ILP)
You can obtain the permit online or from the Leh DC Office.
Mobile Network in Nubra Valley
Only BSNL, Airtel, and Jio postpaid connections work in Nubra Valley. Prepaid SIMs do not work.
Leh to Nubra Valley Distance
Total Distance: ~120 km
Travel Time: 4–6 hours via Khardung La
Travel Tips for Nubra Valley
- Carry warm clothing even in summer.
- Drink plenty of water to avoid AMS.
- Avoid alcohol on the first day.
- Carry cash—ATMs are limited.
- Fuel up in Leh—no major petrol pumps in Nubra.
- Respect local culture and monasteries.
- Drive carefully near Khardung La due to sharp turns.
Is Nubra Valley Worth Visiting?
Yes! Nubra Valley is one of the most beautiful destinations in Ladakh. From the cold desert of Hunder to the historic village of Turtuk, the region offers a perfect mix of adventure, culture, and natural beauty.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is Nubra Valley known for?
It is famous for sand dunes, double-humped camels, Diskit Monastery, and scenic landscapes.
2. How far is Nubra Valley from Leh?
About 120 km via Khardung La Pass.
3. What is the best time to visit Nubra Valley?
May to September.
4. Do I need a permit to visit Nubra Valley?
Yes, an Inner Line Permit (ILP) is required for Indians; foreigners need a PAP.
5. Is Nubra Valley good for family trips?
Yes, it is a family-friendly and safe destination.
Conclusion
Nubra Valley is a dream destination for travellers visiting Ladakh. Its unique landscapes, rich culture, and peaceful villages make it a place you will remember forever. Whether you want adventure, relaxation, or cultural experiences, Nubra Valley has something for everyone.