It is no secret from any traveller that India is a land of dramatic contrasts. However, only a few know that there is one place that feels almost unreal
in how effortlessly it can blend extreme. Located away in the high-altitude cold desert of Ladakh is Nubra Valley. And this is the only valley in India where you can witness snow-capped mountains and golden sand dunes within the span of a single day. At first glance, the idea sounds a little impossible. Snow comes from icy peaks, while sand dunes are usually associated with deserts. Yet Nubra Valley breaks every geographical stereotype and offers travellers an experience that feels more like stepping into two different worlds at once. For the unversed, Nubra Valley is a surreal convergence of contradictions. You’ll drive past the world’s highest motorable road—Khardung La—to reach this land of sand dunes, double-humped Bactrian camels, ancient monasteries, and glacial rivers. The Diskit Monastery with its towering Maitreya Buddha, the sand dunes of Hunder, and the panoramic Shyok River valley are highlights. Nubra’s unique topography makes it a photographer’s dream and a must for first-timers and repeat visitors alike. No matter where you stand in Nubra Valley, snow is never far away. Towering Himalayan peaks beautifully frame the valley throughout the year. Even in summer months, when most of Ladakh becomes accessible, the mountains around Nubra remain dusted with snow. On the other hand, just when you think Nubra Valley is all about snow and mountains, the landscape surprises you again. Near the village of Hunder lie vast stretches of sand dunes. These are not ordinary desert dunes but part of a cold desert ecosystem, something extremely rare in the world. If you are planning to visit this magical place, here are some must visit places. Diskit Monastery Settled on a hill that overlooks the valley, Diskit Monastery is a must-visit as one of the largest and oldest monasteries in Nubra. It has an imposing structure that houses a vibrant prayer hall that’s decked out with interesting murals and a famed Buddha statue. Watch the clouds go by, as the monks chant their daily prayers and soak in the view of the mountains nearby. Yarab Tso Aside from tranquil peaks, Nubra Valley contains quite the variety in scenery. This high-altitude lake, when seen from a distance, almost creates a mirror to the majestic peaks it’s settled between, creating a picture-perfect view. Hike along the serene trails surrounding the lake, or simply sit by its shores and soak in the breathtaking beauty. Sumur If you’re getting tired, why not pay a visit to Sumur, a charming village amidst apricot orchards, which offers the perfect glimpse into the local way of living. Explore the traditional mud-brick houses and watch the villagers craft their beautifully designed woolen carpets. Just to let some steam off, don't miss a chance to savour some of the local snacks like apricot jam and momos or steamed dumplings filled with vegetables.
