Exploring the charming Nubra Valley

After an exhaustive exploration of some of the world’s highest passes such as Taglang La, Rohtang La, Barlacha La, Nakee La and Lachulung La along the Manali-Leh Highway, we reached Leh on a cold evening. Our drained out systems did not cope with us to explore the city that night. So, a good night’s sleep helped us regain our energy for another adventurous road trip to Nubra Valley. Packed and loaded, we embarked on another exciting adventure with great zeal and enthusiasm.

It took us almost three hours to reach Khardung La, the highest motorable pass, although the distance was less than 30 km from Leh town. Since it is located at 18,000 feet above sea level, low air pressure made it a little difficult for us to breathe. However, the effort was worth it as we simply could not take our eyes off the mesmerising view from Khardung La. Added to it was the Indian flag which was mounted on a cliff, a sight I will remember for years. We were asked to leave after spending a few minutes there to avoid any health complications due to altitude sickness. We headed to Nubra Valley from there navigating through bumpy roads and reached the Diskit Monastery after a four-hour-long journey. 

The serene Diskit Monastery, illuminated by natural light, is the oldest and largest Buddhist monastery (gompa) in the Nubra Valley. The Monastery offered a view of the sublime sand dunes dotted by packs of camels. We later reached a guest house near Hunder village where we were treated to some warm and comforting Maggi noodles for supper. The next morning, we set out on a drive to Panamik Village that is nestled very close to the Siachen Glacier, the highest battle field in the world. A beautiful scenic village famous for its hot springs, Panamik is the last destination for tourists travelling across Ladakh. 

The hot water springs here are enriched with high amounts of Sulphur. A dip in these Sulphur hot springs is believed to cure various health ailments. We then visited Sumur, a peaceful and lesser known village in the Trans-Himalayan Mountain range, before finally returning to Leh with tons of memories of what continues to be one of the best experiences of our lives.