Turtuk Village Guide
Turtuk: A Journey to the Last Village Before the Border Guide
Turtuk, a picturesque village nestled in the Nubra Valley of Ladakh, offers a unique cultural experience as one of the last villages in India before the Line of Control (LoC) with Pakistan. This charming village, opened to tourists in 2010, boasts lush apricot orchards, barley fields, and a distinct Balti culture that sets it apart from other Ladakhi villages. A visit to Turtuk is a journey back in time, offering a glimpse into a way of life that has remained largely unchanged for centuries. Turtuk's history is intertwined with the geopolitical landscape of the region. The village was under Pakistani control until the 1971 Indo-Pakistani War, after which it became part of India. This unique history has resulted in a fascinating blend of cultures, with influences from both Ladakh and Baltistan. The villagers primarily speak Balti, a Tibetan language, and practice a mix of Buddhism and Islam. Exploring the village, you'll notice the distinct architecture, traditional clothing, and customs that reflect its Balti heritage. In Turtuk, you can wander through the apricot orchards (especially beautiful during the blooming season), visit the local monastery and mosque, and interact with the friendly villagers. Don't miss the opportunity to try fresh apricots and walnuts, which are locally grown. You can also hike to the ruins of an old fort for panoramic views of the village and surrounding mountains. Turtuk is known for its delicious Balti cuisine, which includes dishes like *balay*, a type of noodle soup, and *mamtu*, steamed dumplings filled with meat. Be sure to sample the local apricot jam and dried apricots as well.
Transportation
To reach Turtuk, you'll need to travel to Nubra Valley from Leh. You can hire a taxi or take a shared jeep from Leh to Hunder or Diskit, the main towns in Nubra Valley. From Hunder or Diskit, you can then hire another taxi or shared jeep to Turtuk. The journey from Leh to Nubra Valley takes approximately 5-6 hours, crossing the Khardung La pass. The road to Turtuk is generally open from late May to October, depending on weather conditions.