Get in

Turtuk, a picturesque village in the Shayok Valley, is a must-visit destination for travelers. Located 211 km away from Leh and 92 km from Diskit, Turtuk offers a unique experience along the Shyok river in the Nubra Valley area. To visit Turtuk, foreign visitors will need an Inner Line Permit, which can be obtained from the Magistrate Office in Leh or through travel agencies. Indian nationals can obtain the permit directly from the Magistrate Office in Leh. Remember to bring your passport and passport copies, as well as 300-450 Rs. When planning your trip to Turtuk, it's advisable to make multiple photocopies of your permit. This is especially important if you plan to visit other areas like Panamik in the Nubra Valley. Checkpoints along the way may require you to deposit a photocopy with them. Transportation options to Turtuk include a local bus service from Leh, available a few times a week. The journey is quite long and bumpy, so be prepared for an adventurous ride. Many people prefer to share a jeep and embark on a 2-3 day trip to explore the entire valley. Please note that hitchhiking might be difficult due to limited traffic on the Diskit-Turtuk road, mostly consisting of military trucks and tourist jeeps. For those seeking an even more thrilling experience, consider exploring Turtuk on a motorcycle or bicycle. Keep in mind that there are not many places to buy provisions along the approximately 90km journey from Diskit. Once you arrive, you'll find the actual village situated on the plateau above the Shayok river, surrounded by stunning scenery. Get ready to immerse yourself in the beauty and charm of Turtuk!

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Dish: Butter Chicken (Murgh Makhani)Butter chicken is a rich and creamy curry made with marinated chicken pieces cooked in a tomato-based sauce. The dish originated in the Indian subcontinent and gained popularity in Canada due to the large population of Indian immigrants. It's typically served with basmati rice and naan bread. Butter chicken contains meat – chicken.

Dish: BiryaniBiryani is a popular rice dish made by cooking Basmati rice with meat (usually chicken, goat, or fish), vegetables, yogurt, and a blend of spices. It originates from the Indian subcontinent and is often considered the national dish of Pakistan. It's known for its flavorful layers and distinct aroma. Biryani contains meat – primarily chicken, goat, or fish.

Dish: SamosasSamosas are deep-fried or baked pastry snacks filled with a savory mixture of spiced potatoes, onions, peas, and sometimes meat. They originate from South Asia and have become a popular street food across India. Often served as an appetizer or a quick snack, samosas can be found at roadside stalls, train stations, and even weddings. Samosas can contain meat – typically potatoes, onions, and peas, but some varieties may include meat such as chicken or lamb.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing