Silk Shadows – Indus to Nubra Trail | Digar La Trek India
The Silk Shadows Indus to Nubra Trail India is a high-altitude Himalayan trek that connects the Indus Valley with the remote landscapes of Nubra through the Digar La Pass. At 5,360 m, this pass offers sweeping views of snow-clad peaks, desert valleys, and the rugged terrain that once formed part of the historic Silk Route.
Trekkers journey across quiet Ladakhi villages, dramatic ridgelines, and the glacial approaches to Digar La before descending toward the Nubra Valley. The trail follows part of the Shyok River corridor, revealing a blend of Buddhist culture, mountain traditions, and striking Himalayan desert scenery. The adventure ends with a scenic drive over Khardung La, one of the world’s highest motorable passes, returning to Leh to conclude this culturally rich and challenging Himalayan trek.
HIGHLIGHTS:
⭐ Highest campsite around 4,700 m with stunning alpine views
⭐ Best season: Late June to mid-September
⭐ Cross the remote high-altitude region of Ladakh
⭐ Explore ancient monasteries and mountain villages
⭐ Conquer Digar La Pass (5,360 m) with panoramic Himalayan vistas
⭐ Dramatic desert scenery ideal for photography
⭐ Long but gentle walking days for experienced trekkers
🏔️ Altitude: 216 m / 709 ft
Arrive in India’s vibrant capital, where our team greets you at the airport and escorts you to a comfortable hotel for a restful overnight stay.
🗻 Altitude: 3,500 m / 11,482 ft
📈 Altitude Gain: +3,284 m / +10,773 ft
Take a scenic domestic flight over the Himalayas to Leh. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel. In the afternoon, visit a local monastery, explore Leh Palace, and enjoy panoramic views from Shanti Stupa. The evening is free for acclimatization and leisure. Overnight at the hotel.
🗻 Altitude: 3,500 m / 11,482 ft
Begin the day exploring the ancient Phyang and Spituk Monasteries, rich in Ladakhi heritage. In the afternoon, visit the regal Stok Palace. The evening is yours to unwind or explore Leh at your own pace. Overnight stay in the hotel.
🚗 Driving Distance: 22 km (13.7 miles)
🥾 Trekking Distance: Short hike
🗻 Altitude: 4,100 m / 13,451 ft
📈 Altitude Gain: +600 m / +1,969 ft
Begin your trekking journey with a scenic drive to Sabu Village. From here, take a gentle hike to Sabu Phu, surrounded by serene Himalayan landscapes. Spend the afternoon exploring and acclimatizing. Overnight in a scenic campsite.
⏰ Trekking Time: 4–5 hours
🗻 Altitude: 4,650 m / 15,255 ft
📈 Altitude Gain: +550 m / +1,804 ft
Today’s trek brings you to Digar Phu, nestled at the base of the Digar La Pass. Spend the rest of the day unwinding and soaking in the raw Himalayan beauty. Overnight at a high-altitude campsite.
⏰ Trekking Time: 6 hours
🗻 Altitude: 4,500 m / 14,763 ft
📈 Altitude Gain: +860 m / +2,822 ft
📉 Altitude Loss: -860 m / -2,822 ft
Today’s trek features a challenging ascent to the mighty Digar La Pass. The effort is rewarded with breathtaking views over the Shyok and Leh Valleys. After crossing the pass, descend gradually to the remote village of Digar. Overnight stay in camp.
⏰ Trekking Time: 5 hours
🗻 Altitude: 4,200 m / 13,779 ft
📉 Altitude Loss: -300 m / -984 ft
Enjoy a gentle and scenic walk to Agyam, tracing the path of the Shyok River through the valley. The peaceful route offers plenty of opportunities to take in the vast Himalayan landscapes. Overnight stay in camp.
⏰ Trekking Time: 4.5 hours
🗻 Altitude: 3,650 m / 11,975 ft
📉 Altitude Loss: -550 m / -1,804 ft
Follow the tranquil banks of the Shyok River on a gentle, scenic trail to Hotong. This stretch offers serene Himalayan views and a relaxed trekking pace. Overnight in camp.
⏰ Trekking Time: 6 hours
🗻 Altitude: 3,300 m / 10,826 ft
📉 Altitude Loss: -350 m / -1,148 ft
Continue along the peaceful Shyok River trail to reach Rumjuk. The day features steady trekking through picturesque terrain with subtle elevation changes. Overnight stay in camp.
⏰ Trekking Time: 5–6 hours
🗻 Altitude: 3,150 m / 10,334 ft
📉 Altitude Loss: -150 m / -492 ft
Conclude your trek in the Shyok Valley with a scenic walk to Khalsar Village. After exploring this charming settlement, join the road to Leh. A waiting jeep will drive you into the spectacular Nubra Valley, where you’ll spend the next five days discovering its unique natural beauty, rich culture, and historic sites.
🚗 Driving Distance: 90 km (55.9 miles)
🗻 Altitude: 3,048 m / 10,000 ft
📉 Altitude Loss: -102 m / -335 ft
Begin the day with a scenic drive to Diskit, where you’ll visit the iconic monastery and explore the town. Continue onward to Hunder, a picturesque village nestled along the Shyok River. Enjoy an optional 6 km walk on the sandy riverbank to reach camp. Overnight stay in Hunder.
🚗 Driving Distance: 130 km (80.8 miles)
🗻 Altitude: 3,232 m / 10,603 ft
📈 Altitude Gain: +184 m / +604 ft
Retrace your journey through the Shyok Valley before diverting toward Nubra. Stop at Tirit, a traditional hub for Ladakhi handicrafts, wool, and jewelry. Continue to Panamik, once a vital stop on the ancient Silk Route. In the evening, visit the 250-year-old Samour Gompa before camping overnight in Sumour.
🚗 Driving Distance: 120 km (74.5 miles)
🗻 Altitude (Khardung La): 5,600 m / 18,372 ft
📈 Altitude Gain: +2,368 m / +7,772 ft
Depart early for a thrilling journey over Khardung La—the world’s highest motorable pass. Arrive in Leh by afternoon and check into your hotel. Enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure, reflecting on your incredible Himalayan adventure. Overnight in hotel.
🗻 Altitude: 3,500 m / 11,482 ft
📉 Altitude Loss: -2,100 m / -6,890 ft
Spend the day at your own pace—exploring local markets, relaxing in a café, or revisiting your favorite spots in Leh. A perfect chance to unwind before departure. Overnight stay in hotel.
🏔️ Altitude: 216 m / 709 ft
📉 Altitude Loss: -3,284 m / -10,773 ft
Transfer to the airport for your return flight to Delhi. Upon arrival, you’ll be escorted to your hotel. Spend the afternoon at leisure—resting, exploring, or indulging in some last-minute shopping. Overnight stay in hotel.
🏔️ Altitude: 216 m / 709 ft
With a full day at your disposal, you may choose to explore the vibrant streets of Old Delhi or the colonial elegance of New Delhi. Later, you’ll be transferred to Indira Gandhi International Airport for your onward journey. Safe travels!
Arrival From Indira Gandhi International Airport (New Delhi)
Departure From Indira Gandhi International Airport (New Delhi)
Domestic Flights: Delhi to Leh & Leh to Delhi
Certified Mountain Guide with mountaineering and first aid training
Cook skilled in Indian, Chinese, and Italian cuisines
Support Helpers to assist with kitchen and camp duties
Pack Horses for carrying gear and supplies
All Trekking Equipment: tents, sleeping bags, mats, kitchen and toilet tents
All Meals: breakfast, lunch, tea/snacks, soup, and dinner
Accommodation: twin-sharing tents
Transportation: all local transfers as per itinerary
Emergency Kit: first aid and oxygen canister
Package price excludes anything not mentioned under “Inclusions,” including flights, insurance, tips, rentals, and emergency costs.
Rental gear available at: Into Wild Himalaya Shop
Trekking boots (well broken-in, ankle support)
Camp sandals or lightweight shoes (for evenings)
Backpack (40–50L with rain cover)
Small daypack or summit pack (20–30L)
Sleeping bag (rated -10°C to -20°C)
Sleeping mat (foam or inflatable, optional)
Trekking poles (adjustable)
Base layers (1–2 sets, moisture-wicking top & bottom)
Fleece or light down jacket
Waterproof jacket (with hood, breathable)
Waterproof pants (with side zips)
Trekking pants (quick-dry)
Thermal tights
T-shirts (synthetic or merino wool)
Thin liner gloves
Insulated gloves
Woollen cap or balaclava
Neck gaiter or Buff
Sunglasses (UV protected)
Sun cap or wide-brimmed hat
Wool or synthetic socks (3–4 pairs)
Headlamp (with spare batteries)
Water bottles (2L total, insulated preferred)
Thermos flask (for high-altitude regions)
Water purification tablets (optional)
Personal first aid kit (blister care, pain relief, altitude meds)
Sunscreen (SPF 50+)
Lip balm (SPF 30+)
Toiletries (eco-friendly, biodegradable)
Wet wipes and hand sanitizer
Quick-dry towel
Snacks (energy bars, trail mix, nuts, dry fruits)
Electrolyte tablets or ORS
Camera or GoPro (optional)
Passport, permits, and some cash (in waterproof pouch)
Safety is our top priority. Our guides are trained First Aid Responders and prepared for high-altitude situations. Every trek, expedition, and motorbike tour includes a comprehensive first aid kit tailored for remote and high-altitude environments.
Core Medical Supplies
Wound Care: Bandages, sterile gauze, antiseptic wipes, antibiotic ointment
Blisters & Burns: Moleskin, burn gel, petroleum jelly
Fractures & Sprains: SAM splint, triangular bandage, compression wraps
Medications: Painkillers, antihistamines, anti-diarrheal, ORS, antacids, Diamox
Tools: Tweezers, scissors, gloves, CPR face shield, thermometer, pulse oximeter, whistle, mirror
Additional (for Remote/Extended Treks)
Tourniquet, emergency bandages, quick-clot gauze, sterile eye wash, foil blanket, water purification tablets
Optional Add-ons (As Needed)
Personal meds (inhalers, insulin, EpiPen)
Snake bite kit (in high-risk zones)
Tick remover (for forested routes)
High-Altitude Protocol
Above 4500 meters: A portable hypobaric chamber is always carried for emergency altitude management.
More than 30 days before your trip: 90% refund
15–30 days before: 50% refund
7–14 days before: 25% refund
Less than 7 days or no-show: No refund
Custom/private trips: Booking advance is non-refundable. Last-minute changes are subject to availability and costs.
For more details on our cancellation policy, please refer to the following link:
https://iwhexpeditions.com/cancellation_policy/
