Best Places to Visit in Turtuk: A Scenic Ladakh Journey
Turtuk is an offbeat village of Ladakh, nestled by the Nubra valley on one side and Baltistan on the other. It lies in the Karakoram range, on the banks of the Shyok river.
The village used to be part of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir till 1971. Only after that was it gained back in Indian territory.
Tourism in Turtuk started a few years back in 2010 when locals signed a petition to let the rest of the world visit them. Since then, the remote village and various places to visit in Turtuk have been part of Ladakh itinerary.
As you explore the corners of this beautiful hamlet including the waterfall, mosque, monastery, it seems like you are in a completely different world.
The raw beauty, lush paddy fields, water streams, and friendly locals offer you a peaceful and memorable experience.
Turtuk lies at a distance of about 205 kilometres from Leh city. As you plan a drive from the capital city to Nubra Valley, do include a day trip to the village too.
As you book a Leh Ladakh Tour Package with Cliffhangers India, we make sure to include Turtuk, “a village divided by border”, in the itinerary.
Popular Places to Visit in Turtuk
Thang
Thang is another tiny village in the Turtuk region of Ladakh. It is one of the remote places to visit in Turtuk.
It is among those hamlets that were captured from Pakistan in the 1971 Indo-Pakistan War.
Similar to Turtuk village, Thang is also inhabited by the Balti tribe. Here, you can explore the orchards of apricots, apples and walnuts. The village also houses the Thang museum where you can see some artefacts and timeless relics.
It is in close proximity to the LoC, only 2.5 kilometres before the border. You must submit important documents like ID, permits to the officials at the checkpost. Only Indians are allowed here. Any Foreign entry is strictly prohibited due to security reasons.
It is about 10 kilometres from Turtuk and a 15 minute drive is enough to reach Thang.
Polo Ground Turtuk
Polo is a traditional sport of Ladakhi people. Locally known as “Chaugan”, polo is often played by locals in a group.
The polo ground is one of the ideal places to visit in Turtuk to see groups of villagers enjoying the ancient sport. It is played while sitting on a horseback.
Polo is part of various competitions and festivities as you can hear local songs during matches.
The Polo Ground is decorated for such events. Do visit here for enjoying the Polo matches and understand the Ladakhi culture.
Balti Heritage & House & Museum
Balti heritage house & museum: With Balti Heritage House and Museum in Turtuk, the local Balti people preserve their ancient heritage and culture up until now. It resides in the centre of the village.
It is called so because the museum is within a house belonging to the Ashnoor family of Turtuk. The white marble house was built back in the 19th century. The museum was incorporated much later. The museum is 140 years old, still flourishing and thriving.
It is built in the Balti style of construction with wooden and stone carvings.
Inside the museum, there are artefacts such as clothes, tools, utensils, household items, musical instruments, etc.
You can easily explore the entire building in about an hour or so. Locals even help tourists in understanding the history of Balti people.
Turtuk waterfall
Turtuk Waterfall is one of the best places to visit in Turtuk. The small yet beautiful water stream often attracts nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.
The waterfall is found against the towering mountains in the backdrop. The greenery surrounding it creates a perfect scenery.
To reach the origin of the waterfall, you have to undertake a short yet tricky trek of about 3 hours. However, as soon as you reach the top, a panoramic view of the region awaits you. Spot the K-2, the world’s second highest peak after Mt. Everest.
Make sure to wear comfortable shoes for the hike. Carry snacks and a water bottle. Don’t forget a camera to click stunning shots of the waterfall.
Turtuk Village
The main settlement of the region lies in the Turtuk village itself.
Occupied by the Balti people, it is one of the four Indian villages that lie in the Baltistan region. It is also known as the last or northernmost village of India before the Indo-Pakistan border. Serving as one of the gateways to the Siachen glacier, it is strategically important too.
As you explore the village, engage with the locals and get to know about the life on the other side of the border. Many of them still have relatives there. Some of them have lived long enough to tell you about the story of the wars.
There are some homestays available in Turtuk village to spend the night. They are available at an affordable price.
Turtuk Monastery
Turtuk Monastery sits on a hill, overlooking the Shyok river Valley.
An interesting story aligns with the Gompa. It was built in 1971-72 since many soldiers of the war belonged to the Buddhist religion. It was a small setup for prayers only. However, as soon as the war ended, the Gompa structure started to perish. As it is known that Muslims are in majority in Turtuk. Even after that, they took the responsibility to take care of the Monastery. People from every religion are more than welcome to visit here.
Currently, it contains a prayer hall, statues of Buddha, with resident monks living there.
It stands tall as a symbol of heritage and unity of Turtuk, welcoming tourists with open arms.
You can meditate here, take a light stroll around and have a peaceful time, exploring it.
While there’s no entry fee for the Turtuk Monastery, you can make donations for the upkeep and maintenance.
Royal house of Yabgo Khar
Royal House of Yagbo Khar is a historical monuments located in Turtuk village.
Back in the 9th century, Yagbo dynasty ruled the Chorbet region of Baltistan. It was in the 16th century that Yabgo Khar was built by Turab Khan, a prominent ruler of the dynasty.
The Palace has seen years of renovation. Even in 1953, Pakistani army used it a shelter home during the war. Now, it comes under the Indian territory.
Here, you can understand about the royalty and grandeur that was once part of the Turtuk village. Hire a guide for a more thorough exploration of the royal palace.
Turtuk Apricot Farms
Turtuk is one such region of Ladakh where huge farms of Apricot are found.
The sweetest fruits of Apricot are grown in huge vineyards and orchards. If you visit Turtuk, a hike to these farms must be in your itinerary.
Here, you can enjoy the sweet and crunchy taste of apricots. Apricot jams, oils and preserves are found at some of them too. Tourists can even buy them to take back home.
Plan the tour in summer when apricots are ripe and ready to eat. The routes to these orchards are clear and easy to navigate as well in the balmy weather.
Turtuk Desert Sand Dunes
Once you have explored the village, venture to the outskirts of it. There, you see the vast cold deserts with sand dunes being the prime attraction.
The best way to experience the beauty of the dunes is via a camel ride. Double-humped Bactrian camels can be found here too.
Locals often offer them to the tourists.
The sand dunes at Turtuk are less crowded than those at Hunder in the Nubra Valley. You can actually have a peaceful experience here.
The region provides you a sharp contrast of greenery along the Shyok river and rugged terrains of the village on the other.
Summer is the best time to plan a visit here.
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Chat With UsFAQ's
Why is Turtuk Village famous?
Turtuk is famous as one of the few places in our country, inhabiting the Balti people. Again, since it lies near the Indo-Pakistan border, the village remains a popular attraction for offbeat tourism. Here, you can explore the apricot orchards, visit the polo ground, monastery and mosque.
Is it worth visiting Turtuk?
Yes, Turtuk, popularly known as the “Apricot Capital of Ladakh” is surely worth visiting. Part of the different wars and battles, the place is ideal if you are looking to dive deep into history. Other than that, the most raw natural beauty is found at the village with a giggling waterfall, completing the scenery.
e Ladakh is worth visiting as it is the closest vacation destination in India. It will give you the unique experience of Balti culture and offers many off-beaten-path experiences. It is said to be a hidden gem that will offer a chance to explore a totally different world.
Which is the most beautiful road in Ladakh?
The road from Leh to Pangong Lake is one of the most beautiful roads in Ladakh. It is just one among the many scenic routes. More on the list include Leh to Nubra Valley via Khardung La, Leh to Lamayuru monastery, etc.
Which is the most visited place in Ladakh?
Some of the most visited places in Ladakh are Pangong Lake, Nubra Valley, Khardung La Pass, Leh city and Magnetic Hill. These are the major tourist attractions of the region and often crowded with adventure enthusiasts.
Is it safe to drive in Ladakh?
It is generally safe to drive in Ladakh. However, proper caution is necessary when driving to the alpine regions. Acclimatize in the lower valley before the road trips on passes. Remain updated about the current road conditions on various highways and routes. You must have enough experience to drive on the narrow and steep roads of Ladakh.
