Nubra Valley is the green valley north of Leh, reached by crossing Khardung La. The road is paved for most of the way, but it climbs to 5,359 m, so it is a long day.
Leh to Nubra route at a glance
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Distance | About 125 km from Leh to Hunder |
| Time | About 5 to 6 hours with stops |
| Highest point | Khardung La, 5,359 m (17,582 ft) |
| Route | Leh, South Pullu, Khardung La, North Pullu, Khalsar, Diskit, Hunder |
| Nubra Valley height | About 3,000 m |
| Best time | May to September |
| Permit | Inner Line Permit required |
What you see along the way
The road climbs from Leh through South Pullu to the Khardung La summit, then drops through North Pullu and Khalsar into the Shyok valley. At Diskit there is a large monastery, and a few kilometres on, the Hunder sand dunes are where double-humped Bactrian camels graze and give rides.
When to cross Khardung La
Start early. The weather on the pass turns faster in the afternoon, and the descent is long. Limit your time at the top, because the air is thin. Snow can close the road in the cooler months, so the usual window is May to September.
How our trips do it
On our Leh Ladakh bike trip, day 3 is the ride from Leh to Nubra over Khardung La, about 125 km in 5 to 6 hours, with a camel ride at Hunder. The Ladakh Moon Land tour also goes to Nubra. Inner Line Permits are included in both.
Questions
How far is Nubra Valley from Leh?
About 125 km to Hunder by the Khardung La road.
How long does Leh to Nubra take?
About 5 to 6 hours with stops at the pass and for meals.
Do I need a permit for Nubra Valley?
Yes. An Inner Line Permit is needed, and it is included in our tours.
How high is Nubra Valley?
About 3,000 m above sea level. Khardung La, on the way, is 5,359 m.
When is the best time to visit Nubra Valley?
May to September, when Khardung La is open and the valley is green.
Can I do Leh to Nubra in one day and return?
It is possible but long. Most trips stay a night in Nubra, which is how our Leh Ladakh bike trip does it.
