Kharnak Valley was historically inhabited by the Changpa nomads who practiced transhumant pastoralism—migrating seasonally with herds of yaks, sheep, and goats. Their way of life revolved around the production of prized pashmina wool. Over the past two decades, many nomads from Kharnak have moved closer to Leh due to harsh winters and limited access to health and education. However, the cultural soul of Kharnak remains in its vast open valleys, ancient routes, and the remaining families who preserve their ancestral rhythm.