Hundur Monastery in Ladakh: Hidden Gem in Nubra + Best Camping Spots for Your Trip to Ladakh

Ladakh—land of high passes, surreal landscapes, and spiritual serenity. Every corner of this Himalayan wonder has something unique to offer, from ancient monasteries perched on cliffs to silent deserts with double-humped camels. While most travelers stick to Pangong and Leh, those looking for deeper, offbeat experiences often find themselves enchanted by Nubra Valley.

And right at the heart of Nubra lies a peaceful and lesser-explored treasure—Hundur Monastery in Ladakh. This ancient gompa is not just a symbol of spiritual calm but also a perfect addition to your Nubra itinerary. It's surrounded by rolling sand dunes, breathtaking mountain views, and quaint villages.

So if you're planning a trip to Ladakh and looking to go beyond the usual checklist, Hundur and the nearby camping spots can give you an experience you'll never forget.

Let’s take you through the story, secrets, and the best places for camping in Ladakh, all in one complete guide.

🏔 Where is Hundur Monastery in Ladakh?

Located in Hundur village, about 7 km from Diskit in Nubra Valley, Hundur Monastery (also known as Hundur Gompa) is one of the region’s most peaceful and lesser-known spiritual centers.

Perched atop a gentle hill, the monastery overlooks the confluence of green fields and sand dunes that define Nubra’s unique geography. It's smaller than the famous Diskit Monastery but no less charming, especially for travelers who enjoy quiet places with deep cultural roots.

🧘 What Makes Hundur Monastery So Special?

1. Spiritual Calm and Silence

Unlike the bustling Diskit Gompa, Hundur is quiet and rarely crowded. You’ll often find monks chanting softly, incense burning, and prayer flags fluttering against snow-peaked backdrops.

2. Old Monastic Architecture

The monastery has a traditional Ladakhi design with whitewashed walls, a colorful prayer hall, and an intimate courtyard. It dates back to the 14th–15th century and belongs to the Gelugpa sect of Tibetan Buddhism.

3. Location Advantage

Set amidst the beautiful Nubra Valley, the monastery is surrounded by apricot orchards, mud-brick houses, and majestic sand dunes—perfect for post-visit walks and photo ops.

🗺 How to Reach Hundur Monastery

  • From Leh: It’s around 125 km (5-6 hours) via Khardung La, the world’s highest motorable road.

  • From Diskit: Only 7 km away, accessible by local taxi or rented bike.

  • Roads are open from May to September.

📸 Photography Tips at Hundur

  • Visit during golden hour for soft sunlight on white walls

  • Wide-angle lens to capture surrounding dunes and mountains

  • Use a drone only with permission—monasteries often restrict aerial shots

  • Try night photography in Hundur village for star trails and Milky Way

🧳 What to Carry for Hundur Monastery

  • Modest clothing (shoulders and knees covered)

  • Reusable water bottle

  • Sunscreen and hat

  • Cash (no ATMs in the area)

  • Snacks and a power bank

🧭 Nearby Attractions to Hundur Monastery

🐫 1. Hunder Sand Dunes

This is the only cold desert in India where you can ride double-humped Bactrian camels. Dune-bashing isn't a thing here—but the scenic walk and camel ride make for memorable family experiences.

🏯 2. Diskit Monastery

The largest and most well-known gompa in Nubra. Famous for its 32-meter Maitreya Buddha statue and hilltop views of the valley.

🏞 3. Panamik Village (Hot Springs)

A quiet village known for its natural sulfur hot springs—great for soaking tired feet after long road trips.

🚶‍♂️ 4. Yarab Tso Lake

A short trek from Sumur village leads you to this secret high-altitude lake, sacred to locals and stunning for early morning reflection shots.

🏕 Best Places for Camping in Ladakh

Now let’s talk about the other side of adventure—the joy of sleeping under a sky full of stars. There are dozens of amazing places for camping in Ladakh, but here are the top 6 family-friendly and scenic options you can consider:

1. Nubra Valley (Hundur / Sumur Camping)

  • Best for: Families, camel safari lovers, and monastery enthusiasts

  • Why it’s great: Starry skies, peaceful vibes, and proximity to Hundur & Diskit

  • Stay options:

    • Desert Himalaya Resort

    • Hunder Sarai Resort

    • Eco Huts Nubra

Pro Tip: Choose camps that offer attached washrooms for comfort.

2. Pangong Tso Lake Camping

  • Best for: Scenic sunrise/sunset, couples, and photographers

  • Highlights: Iconic lake with turquoise blue water at 14,270 ft

  • Stay options:

    • The Norling Camp

    • Pangong Retreat

    • Wonderland Camps

Note: Very cold at night; carry thermals.

3. Tso Moriri Camping

  • Best for: Offbeat travel, wildlife lovers

  • Why visit: Fewer crowds than Pangong, home to migratory birds

  • Campsites:

    • Yak Camp

    • Lake View Cottages

Tip: Combine this route with Chumathang Hot Springs for a relaxing break.

4. Sarchu Camps (Manali-Leh Route)

  • Best for: Road trippers, bikers

  • Altitude: 14,000+ ft

  • Stay: Goldrop Camps, Adventure Camp Sarchu

  • High altitude caution: Not recommended for kids under 10

5. Uleytokpo Eco Camps (Near Alchi)

  • Best for: Families and culture seekers

  • Activities: Stargazing, village walks, river rafting on Zanskar

  • Stay: West Ladakh Camp, Apricot Tree Hotel

6. Spituk Camping (Near Leh Airport)

  • Best for: First or last night of the trip

  • Why: Close to Leh but still remote, with views of Indus River

  • Campsites: Homestay-style camps with food and bonfire

🏕 Camping Tips for Ladakh

  • Always book in advance during May–September (peak season)

  • Choose eco-friendly camps that use solar power and sustainable waste systems

  • Ask for oxygen availability at camps above 13,000 ft

  • Carry your own thermos, snacks, and warmers

  • At night, avoid going far from tents due to wildlife and cold

🧭 Suggested 7-Day Nubra & Camping Itinerary

DayPlan
Day 1Arrive Leh → Rest & Acclimatize
Day 2Explore Leh – Shanti Stupa, Leh Palace
Day 3Drive to Nubra Valley via Khardung La → Visit Hundur Monastery → Stay in a Hundur camp
Day 4Camel Ride → Visit Diskit Monastery → Relax in camp
Day 5Drive to Pangong Tso → Lakefront Camping
Day 6Back to Leh via Chang La → Shopping at Leh Market
Day 7Departure or optional trip to Alchi/Uleytokpo

🧘‍♀️ Final Thoughts: Go Beyond Tourist Trails

If you want your trip to Ladakh to be about more than just clicking pictures at famous lakes, places like Hundur Monastery in Ladakh and the lesser-known places for camping in Ladakh will show you the quieter, richer, and more meaningful side of the region.

It’s in these moments—watching prayer flags flutter, soaking in hot springs after a cold desert night, or sharing momos with locals at a remote campsite—that Ladakh touches your soul.

So go ahead—explore, meditate, ride a camel, sleep under a million stars, and leave a piece of your heart in the mountains.

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