The Phyang to Hunder Trek is a high-altitude trans-Himalayan route that begins near Leh in the village of Phyang and crosses into the otherworldly expanse of Nubra Valley. The highlight of the trek is the challenging Lasermo La Pass, offering panoramic views of the Karakoram range. This route once served as an important corridor in ancient times, connecting Buddhist monasteries and merchant trails between the Indus and Nubra regions.
Phyang is home to a historic Gompa dating back to the 16th century, deeply rooted in the Drikung Kagyu lineage of Tibetan Buddhism. The route passes ancient monastic meditation caves and grazing trails once used by Silk Route caravans. Hunder, on the other end, showcases the cultural synthesis of Ladakhi and Central Asian traditions, having once been part of a vital Indo-Central Asian trade junction.
Start from Phyang Monastery nestled amidst rugged cliffs
Cross the glacier-clad Lasermo La Pass (5,400 m)
Descend into the oasis-like Nubra Valley, with its desert and dunes
Stunning views of Stok Range, Karakoram Peaks, and snow-fed lakes
End in Hunder, known for its double-humped Bactrian camels and sand dunes
Visit and camp near remote Ladakhi hamlets
Explore Buddhist spiritual centers and local life along the trail
Interaction with monks and villagers practicing ancient Himalayan lifestyles
Observe the contrast between monastic Ladakh and caravanserai Nubra
Moderate to challenging trek through alpine and glacial terrain
Camping near high-altitude lakes and shepherd pastures
Glacier crossing and snowfield navigation near the Lasermo La summit
Birdwatching, nature photography, and stargazing under crystal-clear skies
Optional camel rides and cultural tours in Hunder post-trek
Altitude Range: ~3,500 m to 5,400 m
Best Time to Visit: Mid-July to mid-September (after snow melts)
Duration: 5–6 days (including acclimatization and descent)
Stay Options: Camping throughout trek; guesthouses in Phyang and Hunder
Permits: Inner Line Permit (for Nubra Valley entry)
Starting Point: Phyang village (15 km from Leh, accessible by road)
Ending Point: Hunder (connected to Leh via Khardung La by road)
Transport: Shared taxis or private cabs from Leh to both start and end points
Exit Option: Drive back from Hunder to Leh via Khardung La (5,359 m)
Day 1 – Drive from Leh to Phyang, acclimatize and explore the monastery
Day 2 – Trek to the first campsite near the base of Lasermo La
Day 3 – Cross Lasermo La Pass, camp near Lasermo campsite
Day 4 – Descend gradually into Nubra region, reach Morobuk
Day 5 – Trek to Hunder via high-altitude meadows
Day 6 – Explore Hunder sand dunes, drive back to Leh via Khardung La
Spend 2–3 days acclimatizing in Leh before starting
Carry trekking poles, crampons/microspikes, and adequate warm gear
Lasermo La remains snow-covered—check weather and pass condition
Go with a certified guide or local support team for safety
Keep extra batteries and power backups for cameras—no power on trail
Carry essentials like sunscreen, dry food, and reusable water bottles
Phyang Monastery (pre-trek spiritual orientation)
Sumur and Panamik hot springs (relaxation after the trek)
Diskit Monastery and Giant Buddha statue
Khardung La Pass—world-famous high motorable road
Turtuk village, further into Nubra for cultural exploration
For trekkers seeking a truly offbeat route across Ladakh’s mighty landscapes, the Phyang to Hunder Trek is a journey of dualities—from green to barren, ice to sand, solitude to settlement. It’s a trek that showcases not just physical endurance but the breathtaking contrasts of Ladakh’s natural and cultural spectrum.
