Nubra Valley To Leh

The Nubra River is another beautiful river that flows through the cold, blue landscapes of Ladakh, revitalising everything in its wake. It is a tributary of the River of Death– Shyok, which is a part of the Indus River System. Known as ‘Yarma Tsangpo’ in the early Tibetan maps, its watercourse runs through the Nubra Valley in the north of Ladakh. It flows further towards Pakistan to join the Indus River in Skardu.

The lush Nubra Valley that flourishes around the river, but you will require inner-line permits if you want to travel here. You can plan a day trip here and return from Nubra Valley to Leh in the evening to rest in your accommodations. The route to Nubra Valley, when you travel from Leh, also takes you through the breathtaking Khardung La pass.

The Origin Of the Nubra River

The river draws its notoriety due to its thrilling origins, among many other things. Taking its life from the second largest polar glacier in the world– the Siachen glacier, the Nubra River is fed into by a few other glaciers as well. Mainly the Terong glacier of ‘The Third Pole’ as well as a few more that belong to the Karakoram range.

Useful Facts About the Nubra River

• Earlier, the Nubra River used to be called ‘Yarma Tsangpo’ according to old Tibetan maps.
• The length of the Nubra River is approximately 90 kilometres.
• The Siachen Glacier, where the Nubra River originates, is the world’s highest battlefield.
• The Nubra River is Shyok River’s right bank tributary.
• The Nubra River merges into the Indus River system at Keris.
• The Nubra River is Shyok River’s right bank tributary.
• The river drains into the Shyok River after travelling approximately 90 kilometres Southeast between Karakoram and Saltoro Mountains.
• The Nubra River also brings in Quaternary sediments that prove invaluable to the Quaternary geology researchers.
• During the peak tourist season for Ladakh, i.e. June to September, the level of the meltwater flow is at its maximum. This is when the sediment load is the highest.

About Nubra Valley

Nestled around the crisscrossing channels of the Nubra and Shyok Rivers, the Nubra Valley is the Orchard of Ladakh. Its picturesque views, lush orchards, Bactrian camels, and monasteries make it a must-visit site in your foray into the region of Leh Ladakh. The apricot flowers start to bloom in April, and as the season progresses, you will see a wide variety of flowers and berries, including a variety of apple trees.

Residing around 150 kilometres from Leh, it allows you a respite from the high altitudes by travelling you down to sea level lower by approximately 500 metres. Nubra Valley was once situated on the silk route that connected Tibet with Turkistan via the Karakoram Pass.

Drawing its popularity for being a tri-armed valley, the cold desert is separated by the Nubra and Shyok rivers. There are a host of places to see in Nubra Valley, making it a must-visit spot.

Also Read: Leh Ladakh Market – Travel and Shopping Guide

Attractions Near The Nubra River: Things To Do in Nubra Valley

• Khardung La Pass: The world’s highest bikeable road, at an altitude of 18,379 feet, the Khardung La Pass is the passageway to Nubra Valley. Every biker’s dream destination, a ride through this breathtaking pass as the cold air caresses your face, will be an experience like no other.
• Deskit Gompa: The largest and oldest monastery in the Nubra Valley. Attracting visitors with its serene and spiritual environment, Deskit is also home to a huge Maitreya Buddha statue that stands tall at 106 feet.
• Hunder: It is a quaint and serene village near Nubra. What attracts people here is the camel rides on the double-humped back Bactrian camel. The animal, which is distinct to the region, draws people from all over to experience the Camel safari offered by the local villagers. The village also offers you a chance to try the local delicacies prepared by the locals with love.
• Turtuk: The northernmost point of India, the region is open to tourists but you will require an Inner Line Permit (ILP) to visit. Around 80 kilometres ahead of Hunder, Turtuk is where you will get a taste of the unique Balti culture. It’s a different lifestyle that will leave you awed with its humble roots and simplicity. Here you will find stone houses, natural refrigerators, stone pressure cookers, among many other things. Turtuk also has a ‘Balti Heritage Museum’ where you can discover a piece of the local history. The symbolic “king” of Turtuk, Yabgo Mohammad Khan Kacho, who descended from the 200-year-old Yabgo dynasty, also resides there. A part of their old royal palace has now been converted into a museum, housing the memories of the dynasty.
• Siachen: The highest battlefield of the world opened its door to tourists in 2019. Once again, you will need permits to visit as the area is still under the control of the Indian Army, but if you brave through to reach the peak, you will find a view like no other. With blankets of white covering wherever your eyes land, the scenic horizon will take your breath away.

Also Read : Indus River in Ladakh

Summing Up

Ladakh is not just a destination but an experience that leaves a beautiful impression on your soul. And what better place to visit on your Ladakh trip than the The Nubra River and the surrounding valley. The river with its pristine waters and dramatic landscapes, carves its way through the Nubra Valley, creating a paradise for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike. With no shortage of things to do in Nubra Valley, you will have an unforgettable journey, regardless of what you seek– adventure, culture, or nature. It is one of the most spectacular landscapes you will ever see in your life. Nestled amidst the towering peaks of the Himalayas, this region is a testament to nature’s grandeur and human resilience. The valley is dotted with ancient monasteries, traditional villages, and scenic views that present a unique juxtaposition of high-altitude desert and lush greenery.