Situated at an elevation of 11,000 feet above sea level, Nelong Valley is a rocky desert in the Gangotri National Park. The much-talked-about valley was opened for tourism in 2015, and since then it has become a go-to place for adventure junkies. The valley was an essential trade route between India and Tibet before it was occupied by the Chinese.
This rocky region looks exactly like Ladakh, Spiti, and Tibet and features high altitude peaks having similar weather and landscape. Hence, it is becoming one of the most popular places to explore in Uttarakhand. Since the valley is situated under the Gangotri National Park, it is not allowed to spend the night within 25 kilometers of the region but still, it is no less than a treasure trove for the explorers.
Best Time To Visit Nelong Valley
The best time to visit Nelong Valley is any time between May and November when the weather is ideal and sunny. During the winter season, the valley remains closed for travelers because of the region’s heavy snowfall. Until the valley is reopened properly and made more accessible for travelers, it is very difficult and futile to go through the trouble.
History Of Nelong Valley
The grueling Nelong Valley is located near the Indo-China border, which was closed to tourists after the Indo-China war in 1962. The valley was reopened in 2015 to promote travel and tourism in Uttarakhand. Once a part of the ancient trade route between India and Tibet, Nelong Valley got affected by the 1962 war. The indigenous population living in the valley, known as Rongpas or Bhotiyas, was forced to migrate to Bagori village in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand.
After the valley was vacated, the Indo-Tibetan Border Police took charge of the region and set up their checkpoints. Visitors can still see the ruins of the ancient trade route and the narrow wooden bridge erected along the gorge.
Places To Visit In Nelong Valley
Nelong Valley is one of the best places to visit in Uttarakhand. Here's the list of the tourist places you can explore in Nelong Valley.
1. Nelong Valley
famously deemed as Spiti of Uttarakhand, the valley is an attraction in itself. The view of the Tibetan Plateau will leave you speechless. Built in the 17th century, Gartang Gali, a wooden walkway, that was used for trade between countries is one of the main attractions of the valley.
2. Gartang Gali
Gartang Gali is a wooden bridge said to be built by the Pathans of Peshawar in the 17th century. The 105-meter bridge is famous amongst adventure seekers. The bridge got damaged over the year after it fell into disuse during the Indo-China war in 1962 after it was declared off-limits for civilians. After being reopened by Uttarakhand Tourism in 2015, travelers require special permission to visit Gartan Gali.
How To Reach Nelong Valley
Best kept secret of Dev Bhoomi, Nelong Valley is nestled in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand and is well-connected by motorable roads. However, you would require to book a gipsy provided by the forest department as they are the only vehicles allowed to go further towards the valley.
- Nearest Metropolitan City - New Delhi
- Distance From Dehradun - 258 kilometers
- Distance From Uttarkashi - 100 kilometers
- Distance From Jolly Grant Airport - 271 kilometers
- Distance From New Delhi - 534 kilometers
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By Road
The roads leading to the Nelong Valley are quite dangerous and aren’t for the faint-hearted, however, they offer the gobsmackingly beautiful views. The best route is via Delhi-Dehradun-Bhairav Ghati.
- Bus Service - Delhi To Dehradun. It takes six hours to reach Dehradun via bus from Delhi and then, you can board local buses to reach Bharav Ghati. You can’t go further towards Nelong Valley via bus.
- Cab Service - There are plenty of cab services available that can take you to Bhairav Ghati but only registered providers and forest department’s vehicles are allowed to go all the way to Nelong.
By Train
Several trains are available that will take you to the nearest railheads to Nelong Valley. Spend the night in Rishikesh or Haridwar or Dehradun and then get a cab till Bhairav Ghati which is located a few kilometers away from the Gangotri shrine.
- Nearest Railway Station - Harrawala railway station in Dehradun is the nearest railhead which is about 256 kilometers away from the valley.
By Air
Frequent flights are available from Indira Gandhi International in Delhi to Jolly Grant in Dehradun.
- Nearest Airport - Dehradun’s Jolly Grant Airport is the nearest airport to Nelong Valley and 258 kilometers away from the destination. Buses and private cabs are easily available from the Airport.
- Second Nearest Airport - Indira Gandhi International Airport, New Delhi.
Here is a list of Indian cities from where flights are available To Reach Nelong Valley
Travel Tip - Nelong Valley is also known as Nelang Valley. Book cabs well in advance because only six vehicles are allowed to enter the region in a day. Carry an Indian passport, a pass signed by the SDM, a medical certificate for fitness, lots of chocolates and dry fruits and the warmest clothes you have Nelong Valley temperature is unbearable after the sunset.
Frequently Asked Questions About Nelong Valley
Q1. What are the attractions in Nelang Valley?
A1. Nelang Valley is known for its stunning natural beauty, rugged landscapes, and pristine environment. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains, glaciers, alpine meadows, and picturesque streams. The valley is also home to diverse flora and fauna, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.
Q2. What are the attractions and activities in Nelong Valley, Uttarakhand?
A2. In Nelong Valley, visitors can indulge in activities like trekking, wildlife spotting, and photography amidst stunning Himalayan scenery. The valley is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including rare Himalayan species like snow leopards, Himalayan blue sheep, and musk deer, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers.
