• By: RIYANKA
• Feb 05, 2025
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Lchang Nang Retreat – The House of Trees | A Luxury Stay in Nubra Valley

Leaving behind the hustle and bustle of Leh, as you drive past the Indus Valley and over the Khardungla pass (18,379 feet), you’ll be rewarded with some of the most stunning landscapes of the trans-Himalayan region. Then, when you start descending towards Nubra Valley, you’ll be intrigued by the breathtaking views of nature, unfolding its beauty right in front of your eyes!

Finding Our Way To Lchang Nang Retreat

While Nubra Valley is mostly known for its vast stretches of dunes and the rugged Karakoram mountains, there’s also a lush oasis on the banks of the Nubra River. As the deserts pass by, drive down a narrow lane covered by a canopy and it’ll lead you to the gorgeous Lchang Nang Retreat – a quaint resort set amidst an orchard of elm, apricot, and apple trees.

The name – ‘Lchang Nang’ means ‘The House of Trees’ – and you’ll only realize how apt it is, once you are there! 

Owned by the Kalon Family who have been living here for decades, this boutique property has been built on their ancestral grazing land and now, it’s run by Rigzin, who’s the humble host to respond to all your queries and will ensure that you get to enjoy a relaxing stay at Lchang Nang.

Running entirely on solar power (with a power backup generator just in case) and making the best use of glacial water, the property has a sympathetic approach towards nature and hospitality, promoting eco-tourism. There are seventeen traditional Ladakhi-style cottages sprawling across seven acres of verdant grounds, interconnected with cobblestoned pathways, lined with flowering plants & trees bearing fresh fruits. Tranquility lingers in the air here. A true paradise for birdwatchers, you’d surely get to spot a sunbird, a rose finch, or a pheasant.

Accommodation at Lchang Nang Retreat

Inside the cottages, minimalist décor will win your heart – with the whitewashed mud walls and exposed poplar beams creating a rustic look, with retro fabrics and furnishings giving the interiors a homely touch. Stylish slate bathrooms add a modern accent to the entire setup.

Each cottage connects to a private garden and sit-out area, where you can enjoy your morning cup of tea, gaze at the mountains, or spend hours at night, spotting the Milky Way!

Dining Hall: The property serves a mix of Ladakhi, Indian, Chinese, and Continental dishes, updated daily based on the ingredients available in the garden and local area. Since there aren’t many options, having all your meals here is best.

Sun Room: If you wish to get cozy reading a book or relax with your folks while playing board games, this is the place for you! As the name suggests, ample sunlight streams into this space. Yoga classes are also held here; you can sign up for a session if you like it.

Tea Station: Set out in the open, under the trees, the Tea Station allows you to soak in the beauty of nature while sipping some Noon Chai.

Bonfire Area: Considering the chilly nights, sitting by the fire wouldn’t be a bad idea! There’s a large bonfire area where you can warm yourself around the dancing flames and watch the stars.

Things to do while staying at Lchang Nang Retreat

While your Ladakh trip will be packed with epic adventures, your time at Lchang Nang is all about slowing down, breathing in the crisp mountain air, and letting nature work its magic on you.

Sway gently on hammocks tied to century-old elms, pack a picnic and settle by the gurgling river, or curl up with a book on your porch—before you know it, time will slip away most beautifully.

The resort is also perfectly located for some incredible day trips—explore the Sumur Sand Dunes, Hunder Sand Dunes, Diskit Monastery, Turtuk, Lohan Tso, or soak in the Panamik Hot Springs.

If you’re up for more, just ask the manager to arrange cycling trips, river walks, village visits, or even a birding excursion. There’s always something to discover at your own pace!

How to reach?

From Leh, you can get a cab or a bike to Nubra Valley which will take around 5 to 6 hours, crossing Khardung La. Once you reach the Nubra Filling Station (a petrol pump located at a T-point), take the Sumur-Panamik Route. Crossing the Nubra River, drive straight for around 40 minutes, and you’ll hit the road leading to Siachen. Once you reach Teggar Village on that route, take a left until you find the property.

Google Maps might not be very reliable, so you can call Rigzin (+91 80823 88552) and he’ll guide you.

Important things to note

– While network connectivity is poor in this region, the property provides WiFi facilities.

– Only the postpaid BSNL mobile network will work in Nubra Valley.

– For Indian Nationals, Inner Line Permits are required to travel to Nubra, which you can get here.

Cost for 2: 14900 INR + tax (including Breakfast)

Frequently Asked Questions About Nubra Valley

1. Where is Nubra Valley located?
   Nubra Valley is in the Union Territory of Ladakh, northern India, about 150 km north of Leh. It sits at an average altitude of 10,000 feet (3,048 meters) above sea level.
2. What makes Nubra Valley special?
   Nubra Valley is known for its breathtaking landscapes, double-humped Bactrian camels, rolling sand dunes, ancient Buddhist monasteries, and the striking contrast between arid deserts and lush greenery. It also serves as a gateway to the Siachen Glacier, the highest battlefield in the world. 
3. When is the best time to visit Nubra Valley?
   The ideal time to visit is between May and September when the weather is pleasant, and roads are accessible. Winters (October to April) bring heavy snowfall, making travel difficult. 
4. Do I need a permit to visit Nubra Valley?
   Yes, Indian citizens need an Inner Line Permit (ILP), while foreign nationals require a Protected Area Permit (PAP). These permits can be obtained online or through travel agencies in Leh. 
5. How many days should I spend in Nubra Valley?
   A 2–3 day trip is enough to explore the main attractions, but you can extend your stay to visit remote villages like Turtuk or embark on trekking adventures. 
6. How is the road from Leh to Nubra Valley?
   The route via Khardung La is well-maintained but can be challenging due to steep inclines, hairpin bends, and high altitude. A sturdy vehicle and an experienced driver are recommended. 
7. Can I visit Turtuk Village from Nubra Valley?
   Yes! Turtuk, a picturesque village near the Indo-Pak border, is about 80 km from Hunder and offers a fascinating cultural experience. 
8. Are medical facilities available in Nubra Valley?
   Medical facilities are limited. There is a primary health center in Diskit, but for serious medical needs, you may have to return to Leh. It’s best to carry a basic first-aid kit and medication for high-altitude sickness. 
9. Is Nubra Valley safe for travelers?
   Yes, Nubra Valley is safe for tourists. However, road conditions can be tricky, and high-altitude sickness is a concern. It’s advisable to acclimatize in Leh before making the journey.

If you plan to visit Nubra Valley during your next Ladakh Trip, unwind amidst luxury at Lchang Nang Retreat and embrace the best of nature that’s there in store for you!