Nubra facts for kids

Nubra is a beautiful region located in the northern part of Ladakh, a union territory in India. It is famous for its stunning landscapes, where green valleys meet high desert mountains. The name "Nubra" often refers to the wide, flat valley formed by the Nubra River and the Shyok River. This area is a popular destination for tourists because of its unique natural beauty and rich culture.

Exploring the Nubra Valley

The Nubra Valley is often called the "Orchard of Ladakh" because it is greener and more fertile than many other parts of the region. It sits at an average height of about 10,000 feet (3,048 meters) above sea level. The valley is surrounded by the towering Himalayan Mountains, including the Karakoram Range.

The Nubra and Shyok Rivers

The valley is shaped by two important rivers: the Nubra River and the Shyok River. The Nubra River flows from the Siachen Glacier, one of the longest glaciers in the world. It joins the Shyok River, which then flows into the mighty Indus River. These rivers bring life to the valley, allowing plants to grow and supporting local communities.

Unique Landscapes and Sand Dunes

One of the most amazing sights in Nubra Valley is its cold desert landscape, complete with sand dunes. You might be surprised to see sand dunes in such a high-altitude, cold region! These dunes are found near villages like Hunder. Here, you can even ride Bactrian camels, which are special two-humped camels. They were once used by traders on ancient routes.

Historical Trade Routes

For centuries, the Nubra Valley was an important stop on the ancient Silk Road. This was a network of trade routes connecting China, Central Asia, and India. Traders would pass through Nubra, carrying goods like silk, spices, and other valuable items. The valley's location made it a key gateway for travel and trade across the high mountains.

Monasteries and Culture

The Nubra Valley is also home to several ancient Buddhist monasteries, known as gompas. The Diskit Monastery is the largest and oldest monastery in the valley, offering amazing views of the entire region. These monasteries are important centers of Buddhist culture and spirituality, with colorful prayer flags and impressive statues, like the giant Maitreya Buddha statue at Diskit. The local people, mostly Ladakhis, have a rich culture, with traditional music, dances, and festivals.

Wildlife in Nubra

While exploring Nubra, you might come across some unique wildlife. One interesting mammal found in the region is the Nubra Pika (Ochotona nubrica). Pikas are small, rabbit-like animals that live in rocky areas and are known for their distinctive calls.

Images for kids

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  The topography of Ladakh

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  Historical trade routes through Nubra and Aksai Chin (Sketch map by Henry Trotter, 1878)

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  Tourists riding Bactrian camels in Hundar

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  Sand Dunes of Nubra valley.

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  Maitreya - 33 metre symbol of peace facing West. Nubra Valley

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  A panoramic view over the Nubra

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  Diskit Monastery

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  Local map with North towards down

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  View from Diskit gompa on Nubra Valley

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  Seabuckthorn berries, Nubra valley, Ladakh

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  Bactrian camels

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  Silhouette taken at Nubra Valley

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  This is enroute town called Hunder in Nubra.

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  Nubra Valley with Diskit Gompa and town immediately below and Hunder in the distance

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  Resort in Nubra Valley

See also

In Spanish: Valle de Nubra para niños