Best Places in Nubra Valley | Ladakh Sand Dunes & Monasteries
1. Diskit Monastery
Diskit Monastery is the oldest and largest monastery in Nubra Valley, perched on a rocky ridge above the valley floor. Founded in the 14th century, it belongs to the Gelugpa (Yellow Hat) sect of Tibetan Buddhism. A 32-metre statue of the Maitreya Buddha overlooks the valley from the monastery grounds.
Things to Do
- Visit the Maitreya Buddha statue at the monastery.
- Attend the morning prayer (puja) at the monastery.
- Photography of the monastery against the barren mountain backdrop.
Nearest Attractions
- Hunder Sand Dunes – ~10 km
- Diskit Village – ~1 km below
2. Hunder Sand Dunes
Hunder Sand Dunes form a surprising cold desert within the high-altitude landscape of Nubra Valley. The dunes are home to double-humped Bactrian camels — a species unique to this region and a remnant of the ancient Silk Route. Camel rides are available and make for an iconic Ladakh experience.
Things to Do
- Bactrian camel safari on the sand dunes.
- Sunset and sunrise photography on the dunes.
- Photography of the unique cold-desert landscape with mountains behind.
Nearest Attractions
- Diskit Monastery – ~10 km
- Hunder Village – ~1 km
3. Turtuk Village
Turtuk is one of the last villages on the Indian side of the Line of Control with Pakistan (~2 km from the border). It was part of Pakistan until 1971. The village is inhabited by the Balti people and offers a unique cultural experience — apricot orchards, stone houses, a distinct Balti dialect, and views of the Shyok River. Indian visitors need an online Environment Development Fee (EDF) receipt for this restricted area; foreign nationals require a Protected Area Permit (PAP).
Things to Do
- Walk through apricot and walnut orchards.
- Visit the local museum showcasing Balti culture and history.
- Photography of the dramatic border landscape.
Nearest Attractions
- Tyakshi Village – ~5 km further
- Hunder Dunes – ~70 km back towards Diskit
4. Sumur Village and Samstanling Monastery
Sumur is a quiet village in northern Nubra Valley with lush greenery in contrast to the surrounding desert. The Samstanling Monastery here is beautifully maintained and offers views of the snow-covered peaks of the Karakoram range. Nearby is the sacred Yarab Tso lake, a small high-altitude lake considered holy.
Things to Do
- Visit Samstanling Monastery for morning prayers.
- Walk to the Yarab Tso holy lake (~45 min trek).
- Enjoy the green valley contrast against the desert landscape.
Nearest Attractions
- Panamik hot springs – ~15 km
- Diskit – ~45 km
5. Khardung La Pass
Khardung La at 5,359 metres is one of the highest motorable passes in the world and the gateway to Nubra Valley from Leh. The pass offers dramatic views of snow-clad peaks, prayer flags, and a chai stall. Note: acclimatisation in Leh is essential before attempting this pass.
Things to Do
- Photography at the Khardung La signboard.
- Have the famous Maggi noodles and chai at the army canteen.
- Experience the high-altitude cold desert landscape at 5,000+ m.
Nearest Attractions
- North Pullu checkpost – ~15 km below
- Nubra Valley floor – ~40 km beyond the pass