Best Time to Visit Nubra Valley

A tri-armed valley, Nubra is set at a 10,000 ft elevation to the northeast of the Ladakh Valley. It rests at the confluence of the Shyok and Siachen rivers that makes it extremely picturesque. April to June and September to October are considered the peak tourism months in Nubra Valley as the weather is pretty spectacular. However, it depends on every tourist’s needs and wants from the land. Many love to visit Nubra in monsoons to avoid crowds and enjoy slashed accommodation and ticket prices while many enjoy winters here because of the adventure sports.

Hence, we at Eladakh Tourism have distinguished between each season and its offerings below. Basis your preference, you can choose the best time to visit Nubra Valley.

Nubra Valley in Summer (April to June)

Summers in Nubra Valley is not as harsh and frigid as it is in the rest parts of the country. The ice melts and the roads open up to the valley. The temperature from April to June is pleasant with average ranging between 8 – 20-degree Celcius. The weather is welcoming to tourists. the Hemis Festival held at the end of June also attracts thousands to this valley to get a glimpse of the celebrations. Nubra Valley is home to several trekking, cycling and hiking tracks and summer marks the season for trekkers and campers. In summer, many people travel from all across to witness the White Sand Dunes at Hunder. The sight of Bactrian camels are common there and a ride on its back is the most unique activity to do.

Suggested Read: Things to do in Nubra Valley & How to Reach Nubra Valley

Nubra Valley in Monsoon (July to August)

Monsoon is not considered a very favourable time to visit Nubra Valley. Rains sets in mid-July and it continues to shower till August. Since Nubra Valley falls under the rain shadow zone, it does not receive heavy downpour. However, it is accompanied by dangerous landslides that can pose a great threat to property and life. But for those who wish to stick around Diskit or Hunder and not travel too far to the ends, this is the best time as the cost of travel, boarding and lodging are slashed and you can make some great savings on your trip to Nubra Valley in monsoon.

Nubra Valley in Winter (September to March)

September marks the onset of winters. If you can handle some pleasant chilly winds, then September and October are great months to enjoy the cold in Nubra Valley. Snowfall is rare here and burns away quickly in the wide-open valley. However, as December approaches, the place starts to experience harsh winter. Most of the lodges and guesthouses shut down. Being a high altitude destination, the air becomes thinner and there are high chances of altitude sickness. The roads to the valley may get close due to heavy snowfall, but the army clears up the roads in a day. However, if you do visit Nubra Valley in winter, you can always stay with a local family as a paying guest where you will be treated to hot homemade food.