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Rupshu : Level Up Your Trip to Ladakh

Posted on October 8, 2020 by Kirti Patwari

Set amidst the mighty ranges of Karakoram and Himalayas, is the ethereal land of Ladakh. Most of you might know about its attractions and some of you might have been there too. In fact, the idea of motorbiking around the majestic mountains has become so cliché that it is on every other youngster’s bucket-list in India. However, not many know of the enchanting valley of Rupshu which houses some of the best aesthetics of nature in its lap.   

A few days in Rupshu, a lush green valley lying in the south-east of Ladakh, can give you some of the most soothing experiences you’ll ever have. Your tour planner might not put it on your itinerary but it is definitely worth a visit. Do you ask why? Read on to find out!

Places to Go

Kibber 

Kibber is a small village with little population but abundant greenery. It is not really a part of Rupshu, but of the Spiti valley. However, it works as a gateway to the Parang La pass, one of the most scenic routes which connect Himachal Pradesh to Ladakh. A great start to your journey to Rupshu, the place is dotted with bucolic houses and furry cattle.   Located at a height of around 4200 meters above sea level, the beautiful village of Kibber holds the distinction of being the highest motorable village in the world. The high altitude and an impeccably pollution-free atmosphere of Kibber is a boon for sky gazers and photographers, who often stay here for days to capture the wonders of nature. Moreover, the metallic-shaded mountains that surround the barren landscape and green meadows are a treat to the soul.

One of the most breathtaking spots in Kibber is the Chicham bridge. The bridge is Asia’s highest and runs over a 1000ft deep river gorge. Looking down from the bridge is a real spectacle. The village also claims to house the world’s highest post-office.

Climbing on to the right side of the valley, one crosses springs and a small pass before reaching a pleasant campsite called Thaltak. From here one gets a complete view of the Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary area and the snow leopard ridgeline (one of the most probable areas to spot one). Thaltak is also a highland pasture for ibex and blue sheep.

Norbu Sumdo

Norbu sumdo is a broad valley which hosts the confluence of the Pare Chu with the Phirtse Phu at Norbu Sumdo. A river crossing here brings one to a pleasant change of scenery while walking towards the Rupshu plains of Changthang. The mountains around hold dull yet calming hues of gray and brown and the wetlands that lie at their feet make the whole place seem like it has never been encroached. This broad oasis with a river and greens, in the middle of a cold desert makes Norbu Sumdo a great camping site. This is also the most preferred route to enter the beautiful Changthang valley .

Norbu sumdo basically means the ‘joining of three paths’; one to Halne , one to Rupshu and one to Spiti. Walking on dry river-beds and crossing several glacial streams in this region will be an experience to cherish. Moreover, with herds of mules and wild ass accompanying you, this is undoubtedly one of the best Himalayan trails to trek on.

Kiangdom – Tso Moriri – Tso Kar

 One of the most beautifully painted spots on the canvas of earth,  the vast and pristine plain of the kiangdom lays bare contrasting its color with deep azure lakes of Tso Moriri and Tso Kar. Opened only 1994 for visitors, Kiangdom 

 lies at the southern edge of the Tso Moriri (15,000 feet), a high-altitude lake 27 kilometers long and nearly 8 kilometers wide. This lake is the breeding ground for the bar-headed goose, the black-necked crane, and the Brahminy duck. Exceeding the popular Pangong Tso in terms of scenic beauty, Tso Moriri will provide you the perfect click to upload with #wanderlust! 

A four-hour drive from the Tso, passing through an equally picturesque terrain, lies Tsokar, a salt lake which was once the source of nearly all of Ladakh’s salt supply. On this route, you’ll also pass through Kiagar Tso which is believed to be a part of Tso Moriri itself. The dusty road climbs on to Polo Gonka, a small pass that’ll take you to the huge bowl of Tsokar. Large salt mounds are seen scattered in the lake, and the water is obviously extremely salty. You might get to witness kiangs galloping around the lake, the native animals after which Kiangdom is named.

Watching the lakes tucked comfortably in the lap of the herculean mountains makes the visitor realize how ephemeral we all are.

Best Experiences

La Darcha Cultural Fair

A celebration of the trade and commerce between the Himalayan hinterlands of Lahaul, Spiti, Ladakh, Rampur, Busher, Kinnaur, Bhutan and Tibet, the La Darcha Fair offers a glimpse into the lesser-known, virginal culture of these hills, and exhibits artifacts, handicrafts and a wide range other exquisite goods produced in these regions. The fair is held in the month of August at La Darcha, Spiti every year.

You’ll find authentic jewellery, beads, vessels and other antiques along with mesmerizingly beautiful paintings and crafts that are unique to the Himalayan culture. Drool-worthy Tibetan dishes and engaging performances by the Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts are also major attractions here. 

Interacting with the Changpas

Spending a few days in Kiangdom is a great way to get a peek into the Buddhist way of life. From the alleviating sounds of the prayer chants and the singing bowl to the simplicity of the staple cuisine, the culture has its way to enchant you. In the higher planes of Kiangdom, you’ll find Changpa settlements where natives live in yak-skin tents and breed yaks and pashmina, one of the most treasured trade items. However, Changpas have settled all over Changtang and have an indeed unique lifestyle to talk about. They work as hard as possible during the few summer months every year to relax and celebrate life during the winters.

Parang La

With spectacular views of rocky landscape and fast-flowing Pare Chu river, Parang la is the most famous trek route that connects Spiti to Ladakh. It is no less than a photographer’s paradise as it takes you through a delightful journey of differently coloured desserts from Spiti to Ladakh ending at Tso Moriri Lake. 

Best Time to Visit 

July to September (depending on the opening of the higher passes)

How to Reach

From Delhi: Fly/ Drive to Kullu. Drive on to Manali. Cross the Rohtang and take a diversion at Gramphoo to Chatru. Continue on to Spiti via Batal, Kunzum La, Losar and Kaza. Kibber is two hours from Kaza.

Hire a jeep from Manali to Kibber. For self-driven vehicles, high suspension is a must.

Tips for Smart Travel

• Carry enough woollen wear to keep you warm.
• Carry comfortable shoes, suitable for walking on rocky routes.
• Carry all necessary medicines and consult your doctor if you have asthma, vertigo, motion sickness, or other similar conditions.
• Carry your own water bottle.
• Avoid littering the place. 
• The absence of mobile network is an issue in Ladakh. You can get yourself a BSNL sim card (which sometimes helps), or use the local STDs.