Nubra Valley lies north of Leh beyond high Himalayan passes, where the Shyok and Nubra rivers create a broad valley between stark mountain ranges. Its scale feels immense even by Ladakh standards.
Desert and monastery landscapes
Sand dunes, villages and Buddhist monasteries create surprising variety within the high-altitude environment. Road journeys are long but form an essential part of understanding the geography.
Plan for altitude and distance
Nubra should be visited only after suitable acclimatisation in Leh. Several nights make the journey worthwhile and allow the valley to be experienced beyond its most photographed stops.