Phyang to Hunder – Nubra valley trek
Reach the Nubra valley on foot !
The Phyang to Hunder trek offers an incredible journey from the Indus Valley to the Nubra Valley, crossing the high-altitude Lasermo La pass. One of the trek’s great advantages is its proximity to Leh, allowing you to skip the long, tiring road trips that are common in Ladakh. The trek begins in the village of Phyang, where we recommend spending at least one night to enjoy the warm hospitality of the locals at a homestay (often referred to as a farm stay in Phyang). During your stay, take the opportunity to visit the impressive Phyang Monastery, and use this time to acclimatize to Ladakh’s high altitudes.
This trek leads you through a picturesque valley where villagers traditionally brought their yaks, cows, and pashmina goats to graze throughout the summer. Starting in 2025, Himalayan Ecotourism plans to establish a fixed camp at Phyang Phu, where you’ll spend the first night of your trek. This camp will give you a unique chance to immerse yourself in the traditional nomadic lifestyle of Ladakh, alongside the shepherds and their animals.
As you continue, you’ll ascend to Lasermo La, a pass adorned with a glacier and surrounded by stunning snow-capped peaks. The descent from the pass is a two-day journey, gradually bringing you into the Nubra Valley, one of Ladakh’s most famous destinations, typically reached by a long car ride. However, on this incredible five-day adventure, you will have arrived on foot, experiencing the breathtaking landscapes and cultural richness of Ladakh every step of the way.
Nubra valley trek features (Phyang to Hunder Dok)
Duration of your trek
Day-min : The minimum number of days required for the trek (from Leh to Leh)
Day-max : The maximum number of days you can spend on this trek. Prolonged itinerary can be discussed with our team.
AWTD : Average walking time per day (<3 : easy, 3 to 5 : moderate, >5 : strenuous
Altitudes of your trek
Min : Minimum altitude of your trek.
Max : Maximum altitude of your trek.
Ascent : The total ascending difference of altitude on the trek.
Descent : The total descending difference of altitude on the trek.
Difficulty of your trek
Stamina : The physical effort involved during your trek. Rated from 0 (easiest) to 100 (most strenuous). If you have an average fitness you can consider all the treks up to 50. See here for more details
Technical : Difficulty of your trek in terms of exposure to danger and required experience.
0 to 20 : No difficulties,
20 to 40 : Walking on good mountain trails,
40 to 60 : Some walking on difficult mountain trails (steep slopes, rocks, etc.),
60 to 80: You are exposed to some dangers (void, snow, falling rocks, etc.),
80 to 100 : Experience required (please inquire).
Overall : Average between Stamina and Technical rating.
Duration
Altitudes
Difficulty
Nubra valley trek map (Phyang to Hunder)
Nubra valley trek itinerary (Phyang to Hunder Dok)
The trek itinerary is quite straightforward, as you climb through the Phyang valley till the Lasermo La pass, followed by a long descent in the next valley leading to the Nubra valley.
Nubra valley trek, best time to go
Best time to trek into the Nubra valley (Phyang to Hunder) is from end of July to September. In early season you may not be able to cross the Lasrmo La because of the snow covering the pass, which can make it quite risky.
You can consider hiking to Phyang Phu from April to enjoy our camp with the local shepherds.
JAN
Avoid
FEB
Avoid
MAR
Avoid
APR
Avoid
MAY
Avoid
JUN
Avoid
JUL
Best time to go
AUG
Best time to go
SEP
Best time to go
OCT
You may go
NOV
Avoid
DEC
Avoid
Itinerary
Day 1 : Leh to Phyang (3,600 m)
FEATURES | DESCRIPTION |
---|---|
Half an hour Homestay | Your adventure begins with a short drive from Leh to the village of Phyang, situated at 3,600 meters. Here, you’ll settle into a cozy homestay, where you can relax and acclimatize to the altitude. Phyang is known for its welcoming locals and traditional Ladakhi hospitality. We highly recommend taking a leisurely stroll to the Phyang Monastery, a remarkable structure perched on a hill overlooking the village. The monastery offers stunning views and a deep sense of tranquility, making it a perfect spot to start your journey. To fully immerse yourself in the village’s culture and surroundings, consider spending a second night in Phyang before beginning your trek. |
Day 2 : Phyang (3,600 m) to Phyang Phu (4,570 m)
FEATURES | DESCRIPTION |
---|---|
2 - 3 hours +950m / -0m Homestay | The trek begins in earnest today as you make your way from Phyang to Phyang Phu, a vast grazing area used by local villagers for their yaks, cows, sheep, and goats. A motorable road can take you up to Murubok at 4,055 meters, which can shorten your hiking distance if you choose. From Murubok, it’s a 2-3 hour trek to Phyang Phu. Upon arrival, you’ll find yourself in a picturesque landscape, surrounded by the beauty of Ladakh's high-altitude pastures. Here, we facilitate encounters with local shepherds, allowing you to experience their traditional lifestyle. Your guide will assist with communication, giving you a rare glimpse into the daily lives of these resilient people and their deep connection with the land. |
Day 3 : Phyang Phu (4,570 m) to South Basecamp of Lasermo La (4,820 m)
FEATURES | DESCRIPTION |
---|---|
3 hours +250m / -0m under tents | Today’s trek is shorter in distance, but it plays a crucial role in helping you acclimatize as you prepare to cross the high Lasermo La pass. You’ll trek from Phyang Phu to the South Basecamp of Lasermo La, situated at 4,820 meters. The gradual ascent through stunning mountain terrain offers ample time to take in the scenery and adjust to the increasing altitude. The basecamp is a serene location, surrounded by towering peaks and the crisp, clean air of Ladakh’s highlands, setting the stage for the challenging days ahead. |
Day 4 : South Basecamp of Lasermo La (4,820 m) to North Basecamp of Lasermo La (4,780 m)
FEATURES | DESCRIPTION |
---|---|
6 - 7 hours +650m / -700m Under tent | This is the most demanding day of the trek, as you’ll reach the highest point at Lasermo La, standing at 5,450 meters. The ascent will take you across a glacier, a highlight of the journey that requires careful navigation. Although crampons are not necessary, it’s important to stay vigilant and avoid crevasses. Your guide will ensure a safe passage through this icy terrain. It’s advisable not to attempt this trek before late July, as the snow might still cover the glacier, making it risky. After crossing the pass, you’ll begin your descent to the North Basecamp at 4,780 meters, where you’ll rest for the night, surrounded by the majesty of Ladakh’s snow-capped peaks. |
Day 5 : North Basecamp of Lasermo La (4,780 m) to Hunder Dok (3,970 m)
FEATURES | DESCRIPTION |
---|---|
3 - 4 hours +0m / -850m Homestay |
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