Leh to Nubra Valley
Your options
Ways to make the journey
4.5–5 h
The standard route climbs from Leh through South Pullu to Khardung La, then descends via North Pullu and Khardung village to Khalsar, where the road forks for Diskit and Hunder or Sumur and Panamik. The road is paved for most of its length, with rough stretches near the top. We use an SUV with an experienced Ladakhi driver, carry oxygen and check pass conditions each morning.
6–7 h
An alternative route leaves the Pangong road at Sakti, crosses Wari La, at about 5,300 m, and descends to Agham in the Shyok valley. It is longer, quieter and less paved, and suits travellers who want to avoid Khardung La traffic or make a loop. Conditions vary more than on the main road. Check current status before you travel.
Full day
Many visitors ride to Nubra on rented motorcycles, and strong cyclists ride over Khardung La with support vehicles. For our guests, we arrange a supported ride with a backup car and a guide, so you can ride the descent into Nubra and drive the climb. This suits only fully acclimatised, experienced riders.
Worth a stop
- South Pullu checkpoint
- Khardung La (5,359 m)
- Khardung village
- Diskit monastery
Questions travellers ask
Good to know
How long does it take to drive from Leh to Nubra?
About 4.5 to 5 hours to Hunder or Diskit via Khardung La, including stops. Sumur and Panamik are about an hour further. Leave by 8 am to avoid army convoys and the queue at South Pullu. Stops add time. Lunch is near Khalsar.
Is the road from Leh to Nubra paved?
Mostly. The road is paved for most of the way, but stretches near Khardung La can be broken, muddy or icy, depending on the season and recent weather. The Border Roads Organisation maintains it year-round. Snow can fall even in summer.
Can we do Nubra as a day trip from Leh?
It is possible but tiring and rushed, with ten hours on the road and little time in the valley. We strongly recommend at least one night, ideally two, in Nubra. Nubra is lower than Leh, so a night there is usually comfortable.
Do we need permits for the Leh to Nubra road?
Yes. Permits are checked at South Pullu and North Pullu. Foreigners need a Protected Area Permit, and Indian nationals have needed an Inner Line Permit or online registration. Check current status before you travel. We carry copies for you. Carry identity documents too.