Places to Visit in Sham Valley
Ladakh, located in the Trans-Himalayas is one of the most sought-after destinations of India. A number of valleys, lakes, towns awaits you here. One of the places that tops on the Ladakh itinerary would be Sham Valley ,”The Apricot Valley”.
Previously, tourists solely visited here for the sake of Sham Valley trek. However, Sham Valley has gained quite popularity in recent years. Now, visitors plan a sightseeing tour here and explore various monasteries, villages, and other places to visit in Sham Valley.
The valley and various local attractions here are accessible via taxis, cabs and bikes. Treks and hikes are chosen by visitors too to cover shorter distances.
Sham Valley majorly falls on the route of Srinagar-Leh Highway (NH1). But some villages like Likir, Bazgo, Suspol, lie right off the Highway.
A complete round trip from Leh to Sham Valley takes around 5-6 hours, covering around 170 kilometers.
Places to Visit in Sham Valley
Gurudwara Pathar Sahib
As you are on your way to Sham Valley from Leh, the first enroute stop by would be at Gurudwara Pathar Sahib.
It was constructed in 1517. The place holds immense religious significance especially in Sikhism.
It is dedicated to Guru Nanak and his hand imprints are found in a huge boulder. Legends has it that the boulder was found in the 1970s by BRO. They tried every way possible to move it from there but failed. Later in their dreams, it was directed not to remove it. The instructions were followed and it led to the construction of Gurudwara.
As you visit the place, go inside and offer prayers. Explore around as well.
The Gurudwara Pathar Sahib is located at a distance of about 22 kilometers from Leh.
Magnetic Hill
Visit Magnetic Hill in Leh Ladakh on your road drive from Leh to Sham Valley.
Magnetic hill defies gravity, a fundamental phenomenon of the universe. The whole place is a mystery in itself. It is said that it was a gateway to heaven and people who were worthy were pulled in towards it.
It is situated on Leh-Kargil Highway and there is a yellow spot there where you can park your vehicle in neutral to feel the pulling.
The Sindh river flows right by it.
Some of the nearby places to visit would be the Hall of Fame, Pathar Sahib, Alchi Monastery etc.
It is at a distance of 30 kilometres from leh.
Sangam Point
As you move ahead for about 3 kilometers from Magnetic field, Sangam point is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Sham Valley.
Sangam Point sees the confluence of the Indus river and the Zanskar river. While Indus flows in from Tibet, Zanskar flows from the Zanskar Valley, Ladakh.
Both these rivers are very popular ones of Ladakh, offering a number of activities like river rafting, boating, fishing. Zanskar river is more famous for the winter Chadar trek. Trekkers get to walk on the frozen river.
At the Sangam point, spend some time and explore around. You can get some pictures clicked here with mountains in the backdrop.
Likir Monastery
It is one of the most popular monasteries of Sham Valley in Ladakh. It is located in the Likir Village of the valley, about 9 kilometers from the Srinagar-Leh Highway.
From Leh city, it is about 52 kilometers away.
Likir Monastery saw renovation in the 18th century after being built back in the 11th century.
As you arrive at the Gompa, there’s a 25 feet gold plated statue of Buddha in the centre of the entire complex.
The Monastery offers a scenic view of the village and valley.
Alchi Monastery
It is no secret that Sham Valley houses some ancient monasteries of Ladakh. However, Alchi Monastery is among the most popular ones of the valley and a must-visit one too. It was constructed around the 10th-11th century.
It is located on the bank of the Indus river within the Alchi village, Leh.
As the oldest Monastery of Ladakh, the Gompa preserves timeless paintings of both Buddhist as well as Kashmiri style.
The entire monastery comprises three major shrines including the Dukhang (Assembly Hall), the Sumstek and lastly the Temple of Manjushri.
It remains open from 10AM to 1 PM and then again from 2 PM to 6PM, throughout the week.
Rizong Monastery
Rizong monastery was constructed by Lama Tsultim Nima in the year 1831. It belongs to the Gelugpa sect of Buddhism
The Gompa is located on the northern bank of the Indus river in Sham Valley. Another landmark is the Alchi Monastery in its proximity.
Currently, 40 monks live in the Gompa. It is one of the most ideal places to visit in Sham Valley for rejuvenation. There’s a reason it’s called “the paradise for meditation”. You have to adhere to very strict rules and regulations here. Complete silence should be maintained inside the Gompa.
It is about 68 kilometers from Leh city.
Saspol caves of Sham Valley
Saspol caves are found in the Saspol village of the Sham valley.
The cave sits on a hilltop, on the northern bank of the Indus river. You have to hike for about 20-25 minutes uphill to reach there.
These caves are home to some of the finest Buddhist arts that exist. The rock cut paintings date back to the 13th century.
There are a total of four temple caves. However, only two are accessible. Others have collapsed completely and entry isn’t permitted.
As you have explored here, there’s also a fort near the caves for sightseeing. Enjoy the panoramic view of Sham Valley from the tophill.
Uleytokpo Village
Uleytokpo village lies at an altitude of around 10000 feet above sea level. It is situated on the Srinagar-Leh Highway (NH1).
It is one of the best places to visit in Sham Valley. Its offbeat location makes it an enchanting place to explore. Different activities like trekking, fishing, camping, bird watching and picnicking awaits you at the village.
It is located at a distance of about 70 kilometers from the main town of Leh. You can easily find a cab or taxi to reach there.
The village is accessible in the summer season.
Hemis shukpachan
Among the local villages of Sham Valley, Hemis Shukpachan is a must-visit.
The beautiful village is spread in the rugged landscape of Ladakh. The small Ladakhi habitat is tucked in by cedars and lush all around.
The prime attraction here is the Buddha statue, covered in gold sheets. You can visit here for sightseeing and to interact with locals.
The village offers homestays. If you are looking to stay in Sham Valley for a few days, this village is the place to be.
Hemis Shukpachan is found at a distance of about 80 kilometers from Leh.
FAQ's
What is Sham Valley famous for?
Sham Valley is famous for trekking and hiking. The Sham Valley trek offers a complete exploration. The treks found here offer a perfect blend of raw beauty and culture.
What is the sightseeing of Sham Valley?
In Sham Valley, there are many local attractions for sightseeing such as Alchi Monastery, Likir Monastery, Basgo Fort, Sangam Point, Magnetic Hill and Gurudwara Pathar Sahib.
What is the altitude of Sham valley?
Sham Valley lies at an elevation of about 11,500 feet above sea level. Do acclimatize in Leh first before visiting the valley.
Which two rivers meet at Leh?
At a distance of about 33 kilometres from the main city Leh, Zanskar river and Indus river meet at the Sangam Point. It is another popular spot to stop by in Sham Valley.
How far is Leh from Khardung la to Nubra Valley?
Khardung La is located about 40 kilometres from Leh. Then from the Khardung La Pass, you need to drive for another 80-90 kilometres to reach Nubra Valley. Hence, the total distance would be around 130 kilometres.
When is the best time to visit Sham Valley for outdoor activities?
The best time to visit for outdoor activities, such as trekking, biking, and rafting, is during the summer months (May to September) when the weather is perfect for exploring the many things to do in Sham Valley.
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