Nubra Valley to Pangong Tso
Your options
Ways to make the journey
6 h
From Diskit or Hunder, the road follows the Shyok east to Agham, where the Wari La road branches off, then continues through the narrow valley past Shyok village to Durbuk. From there, the Pangong road leads past Tangtse to Lukung and Spangmik. Some stretches cross streams and gravel beds that can flood in summer afternoons. We leave early and check conditions.
9–10 h
If the Shyok road is closed, the alternative is to return over Khardung La to Leh and continue over Chang La to Pangong. This is a very long day of nearly 290 km over two high passes, and we usually break it with a night in Leh. Oxygen is carried.
Worth a stop
- Agham
- Shyok village
- Durbuk
- Tangtse
Questions travellers ask
Good to know
Is the Nubra to Pangong road safe?
The road is generally safe with an experienced driver, but stretches along the Shyok are prone to flooding, rockfall and landslides, especially in July and August. We check conditions the day before and leave early. Check current status before you travel.
How long is the drive from Nubra to Pangong?
About six hours for 160–170 km from Diskit or Hunder to Spangmik, including stops. Allow longer if streams are high or road works are under way. Leave by 7.30 am, as stream crossings rise in the afternoon, and carry a packed lunch for the quieter stretches.
Is the Shyok road paved?
Much of it has been paved in recent years, but some sections remain rough or are washed out after floods. The road is narrow in the gorge. A high-clearance SUV is essential. Expect slow sections. Allow extra time after heavy rain.
Can we go the other way, from Pangong to Nubra?
Yes, the route works in both directions. Starting from Pangong, leave early to reach the stream crossings before the afternoon melt raises the water. The drive takes about six hours either way, and the Shyok valley scenery is just as dramatic in the reverse direction.