Part 1: Packing for an epic Leh and, Ladakh trip (opens in a new tab)
Part 2: Manali to Leh Roadtrip (opens in a new tab)
Part 3: Exploring Leh, the touristy way (opens in a new tab)
Part 4: Land of Baltic People, Turtuk (opens in a new tab)
Part 5: Nubra – The Cold Desert of India (opens in a new tab)
Part 6: Pangong Lake (opens in a new tab)
No matter, how bad you are at photography!
No matter, how bad your mood is!
And no matter, if it’s a journey or destination, you will get some of the best memories with the incredible landscapes of Ladakh!
Julley!! It was the fourth day in the stark landscapes of Ladakh, and an inquisitiveness to see the Bactrian camel tempted us to visit the Nubra valley.
Nubra Valley is known for its high-altitude sand dunes, home to rare double-humped camels, monasteries, and more. Hunder is the only site in India where one can witness them.
The weather gods gave us a hint that they were not favoring us by sending an early signal in Turtuk. Driver bhaiya said Hurry up as we bid goodbye to Turtuk at 1:45 PM with an aim to reach Hunder before sunset( because that’s the right time to see camels). A few patches on the road were blocked due to a recent sandstorm that caused some stones to roll down from the mountains. Being an advanced driver, bhaiya drove on the high hilly roads with the utmost attention.
Upon reaching the sand dunes, we went for a walk following camels. The camels boast of surviving in extreme weather conditions such as blistering heat and freezing cold. They can drink up to 57 liters of water at once and can walk without water for several days!
The calves were running around their mother, carrying tourists on their backs. They look adorable especially when they flaunt facial expressions. We found a good spot to sit and see the camels and..the sand storm was back and we rushed towards the car!
Most of the tourists continued the camel ride including our co-travelers. The sand in the air made it impossible to see mountains and camels. Some people with their kids rushed back to their cars, and some just went out to capture this moment. Driver bhaiya shared a few stories – about his days in the army, the weather of Ladakh, and when people lost their lives while driving in this weather.
What to do in Nubra Valley?
Visit Hunder sand dunes to see double-humped camels ( Locals bring their camels in the morning and evening )
The famous, Future Buddha statue in Diskit.
Visit the oldest and largest monastery in Nubra Valley
Enjoy adventure activities such as MTV rides, zip lining, river rafting, etc
Camping and bonfires in the cold desert.
Our stay in Hunder
The daylight is harsh while evenings are freezing. If possible, avoid booking your stay in tents. A warm place is vital to get proper rest so we booked our stay in a luxurious bamboo tent. The huts were quite spacious and warm. The cost of stay and food was 2000/- for two people at Nubra Valley Resort.
The huts were well equipped with modern facilities. Without a doubt, it’s an oasis amidst a desert for travelers. The buffet dinner was unexpected.
That’s it. Leave a comment if you enjoyed reading it or have any questions 🙂
Engineer, explorer, and wellness seeker writing a slow-living journal of honest travel, vegetarian food, and mindful days.
