Nubra, a Valley of Greek Decedents of Alexander the Great

Hike to the valley, 10,000 ft. above the sea level, and about 140kms from Leh and the exotic Nubra Valley will greet you in its arid versatilities. The Sasser Pass and the famous Karakoram Pass lie to the northwest of the valley will connect Nubra to Xinjiang, another momentous location on the ancient Silk Route. During the days of antiquity, this was a critical trade route connecting East Turkestan and Central Asia. Along the Nubra River, visit the quaint villages of Sumur, Tiger, Tirith and Panamik. Rejoice this old-world of Sumur, which is also known for its important Gompa or monastery, called Samstanling; while Panamik is noted for its natural hot springs.

Panamik at Nubra, is an isolated Ansa Gompa located on a hill. Most of the people are of mixed Tibetan and Central Asian origin and speak varieties of the Balti language. The beautiful village of Bogdang, which is also located in this valley, is famous for its people, having a marked presence of startling blue eyes, auburn hair and ruddy cheeks as compared to the typical mongoloid features of the Ladakhis. Local lore has it that they were a Greek tribe who came in search of Jesus Christ’s tomb and settled here. On your way, in some places, just below the hills, you will find the stone piles, which are the burial of those Greeks, who could not make it to India, along with the army of Alexander. Also, visit Hunder, a village in Nubra valley, is famous for its roaming camels.

The best way to visit the place, is to reach Leh first, to get acclimatize for the road ahead. Before you start for Nubra, you may also, explore the Leh Palace and Shanti Stupa. Polish your nerves made of steel and set out to drive on the world’s highest motorable road at an altitude of 18,380 ft. commonly known as Kardung La Pass. The road will take you down through the breathtaking landscape of spectacular gorge through the Kardung Village, down to the valley floor, where you can enjoy a stay over while, camping in the village of Sumur. The entire trip will take approximately 3 days from Leh to the valley of Nubra.

Are you interested to know more about the Greeks of Nubra, hidden beyond the Himalayan peaks?

Let us hear from you at +91 33 4046 4646