Sham Valley Travel Guide: Ladakh, often referred to as the “Land of High Passes,” offers an enchanting experience for travelers. The region is teeming with sights to explore and adventures to embark upon. Among the numerous destinations in Ladakh, Sham Valley is rapidly gaining acclaim. In fact, a significant stretch of the Srinagar-Leh Highway traverses through Sham Valley. For those who have previously visited Ladakh, you may have already experienced parts of this stunning valley. For newcomers to Ladakh, Sham Valley is definitely a worthwhile addition to your travel plans.
Not so long ago, Sham Valley was mainly known to trekkers undertaking the Sham Valley Trek. However, exploring Sham Valley doesn’t require trekking, as the area is accessible by car. Nevertheless, trekking can be a rewarding experience, revealing the best of both the landscape and the adventure. Let’s delve into Sham Valley!
Where is Sham Valley?
So, where exactly does the Srinagar-Leh Highway intersect with Sham Valley? Commonly, it’s believed that Sham Valley begins after crossing Spituk Gompa and extends to Lamayuru. The general perception is that the road from Leh to Lamayuru passes through the Valley. However, Sham Valley is actually composed of several villages off the main highway. It roughly starts just beyond Likir. Key villages in Sham Valley include Suspol, Bazgoo, Saspochey, Hemis Shukpachan, and Uley.
This overview provides a geographical context. For your travel and planning purposes, we will focus on the key attractions in and around Sham Valley. This guide will help you decide where to visit during your Ladakh trip.
Places to Visit in Sham Valley
There are numerous attractions in the area, and a day trip from Leh is generally sufficient to explore Sham Valley. Although there is a long list of places to see, the total driving distance for a round trip from Leh is about 160-170 km.
Some attractions are right along the highway, while others may require a detour. While well-known spots like Magnetic Hill, Alchi, and Likir Monastery are popular among tourists, there are also offbeat locations worth discovering. Review these places to determine which ones align with your interests and available time.
A Signpost by BRO on Srinagar-Leh Highway
At the end of each description, I’ve noted the approximate time needed to explore each place. This estimate assumes a casual visit without specific objectives; your actual time may vary.
- Gurudwara Pathar Sahib
Starting from Leh, one of your first stops might be Gurudwara Pathar Sahib. Situated about 22 km from Leh at an elevation of 3,600 meters, this serene spot offers a contrast to Ladakh’s rugged terrain. Dedicated to Guru Nanak, the Gurudwara is located on the right side of the Srinagar-Leh Highway.
This site is famous for a large boulder with an imprint of Guru Nanak Ji’s hand. According to local lore, during the 1970s, while constructing the Srinagar-Leh Highway, the BRO discovered the boulder, which was covered with Buddhist flags. Attempts to move it using heavy machinery failed. A dream experienced by an army officer and a bulldozer driver urged them to leave the boulder in place, leading to the construction of the Gurudwara.
Gurudwara Pathar Sahib is a tranquil location for prayer and reflection before continuing your journey through Ladakh’s scenic beauty.
Longest Mani Wheels in Ladakh
Duration: 10-15 minutes
- Magnetic Hill Ladakh
The next notable site is Magnetic Hill, located around 5 km past Gurudwara Pathar Sahib and about 30 km from Leh. You’ll easily spot it thanks to a large signboard placed by the army.
Magnetic Hill intrigued us on our first visit to Ladakh in 2012 due to its supposed gravity-defying properties. It’s believed that the nearby hills have magnetic forces strong enough to pull vehicles uphill when in neutral. While this phenomenon is now thought to be an optical illusion, the drive through the captivating landscape of Ladakh remains enjoyable.
Duration: 10-15 minutes
- Sangam Point – Confluence of Indus and Zanskar Rivers
Just 3 km beyond Magnetic Hill lies Sangam Point, where the Indus and Zanskar Rivers converge. This is one of my favorite spots in Ladakh, offering a view of the Indus flowing from Tibet and the Zanskar from the valley.
Zanskar is renowned for the Chadar Trek, which used to start from Chilling village but now begins further up the road at Tilat Sumdo. Spend some time at Sangam Point, take some photos, and then proceed to your next destination.
Duration: 10-15 minutes
- Basgo Monastery
Located about 40 km from Leh, Basgo Monastery is an impressive sight. From the highway, you can view the ruins of Basgo Fort and Palace. Once a political and cultural center, Basgo was the capital under the Namgyal rulers of Ladakh and was strategically positioned on the Silk Route.
The monastery features three main temples, including the Chamba Lhakhang with its towering Buddha statue. For more details on Basgo, check out our blog on Basgo Monastery.
Duration: 1 hour
- Likir Monastery
Likir Monastery, situated approximately 52 km from Leh, was originally built in the 11th century and rebuilt in the 18th century. Its major attraction is the 25-foot gold-plated Buddha statue, visible from afar.
After visiting Basgo, continue towards Saspol, where a right turn will lead you to Likir Monastery. The village of Likir is about 9 km from the highway, and the monastery sits atop a hill offering panoramic views and beautifully painted murals.
Duration: 1 – 1.5 hours
- Alchi Monastery
Alchi Monastery, one of the oldest and most significant monastery complexes in Ladakh, is unique for being located within a village rather than on a mountaintop. To reach Alchi, return to the highway and drive an additional 10-12 km towards Saspol, then take the Alchi Bridge.
The monastery complex includes six temples, monk cells, and a circumambulation path. Alchi is known for its ancient scrolls, thangkas, and statues, providing a serene and peaceful experience.
Duration: 1 – 1.5 hours
- Saspol Caves of Sham Valley
The Saspol Caves, about 60 km from Leh, are renowned for their Buddhist art. The caves, situated on a ridge in Saspol village, feature rock-cut temples with vibrant wall paintings from the 13th to 15th centuries.
Although only two out of four caves are currently accessible, the hike up offers a stunning panoramic view of Sham Valley.
Duration: 1 hour
- Uleytokpo – Village in Sham Valley
Uleytokpo is a picturesque village located about 70 km from Leh at an altitude of 3,048 meters. Situated right on the highway, it’s a delightful spot with a few homestays for overnight stays. - Rizong Monastery
Rizong Monastery, perched on a mountainside north of the Indus Valley, lies west of Alchi on the way to Lamayuru. It is believed that Guru Padmasambhava meditated in the surrounding caves. Inside the monastery, there is a sacred chamber housing the statue of Mahakala.
Duration: 45 minutes – 1 hour
- Mangyu Monastery – Hidden Gem of Sham Valley
Mangyu Monastery, a hidden gem discovered on our recent trip, is nearly as old as Alchi and shares similar iconographic features. To reach Mangyu, take a 7-km link road from the Srinagar-Leh Highway. The monastery complex includes two temples and chapels with ancient wall paintings.
Duration: 1 hour
- Hemis Shukpachan
Hemis Shukpachan is a quaint Ladakhi village about 80 km from Leh, renowned for its gold-covered Buddha statue. Surrounded by lush greenery and cedar trees, the village offers several homestays for overnight stays.
Sham Valley Trek
For those keen to thoroughly explore Sham Valley, consider the Sham Valley Trek, which traverses remote villages over 4 to 5 days. Engage a local guide to enhance your trekking experience.
In Conclusion
Sham Valley offers a blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences. You can visit all the highlighted places or select based on your interests and time constraints. Many tourists explore some of these attractions en route from Kargil to Leh. For a complete experience, it’s recommended to dedicate a day solely to Sham Valley.
Sham Valley Travel Guide (FAQ’s Answered)
How can you do a Sham Valley Tour?
A Sham Valley tour can be undertaken as a day trip from Leh. Hiring a car is a convenient way to explore the attractions. Rates are generally set by the Leh-Ladakh Taxi Union.
Is Sham Valley worth visiting?
Yes, Sham Valley, also known as the apricot valley, is worth visiting. It offers a mix of natural beauty and spiritual experiences.
How far is Sham Valley from Leh?
Sham Valley is located approximately 75 km from Leh.
What is in Sham Valley?
Sham Valley features several villages off the main Srinagar-Leh Highway, with attractions including Alchi and Likir Monasteries, Basgo Palace, Sangam Point, Magnetic Hill, and Gurudwara Pathar
Sahib.
Best Time to Visit Sham Valley
The ideal time to visit Sham Valley is from May to September when the weather is pleasant and most roads are accessible. Winter months may bring heavy snowfall, making travel difficult.
How to Reach Sham Valley?
Sham Valley can be reached by road from Leh. You can hire a local taxi or self-drive. The valley is situated along the Srinagar-Leh Highway.
Where to Stay in Sham Valley?
While Sham Valley doesn’t have extensive accommodation options, several villages, including Uleytokpo and Hemis Shukpachan, offer homestays and guesthouses.
