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Turtuk - The Last Indian Village before Gilgit-Baltistan



Turtuk - The Last Indian Village before Gilgit-Baltistan

When Turtuk was opened to tourists in 2009, it was a small, mostly self-sufficient mountain village. This is the farthest north tourists can travel beyond which lies the LOC and Pak Controlled Baltistan.
Turtuk was under Pakistan's control but India annexed the village during the Indo-Pak war in 1971. The region of Baltistan was divided between the two countries. Turtuk serves as a strategic point for the Indian military as it is just 10 kilometers away from the LOC and is a gateway to the Siachen Glacier.

The last of the true frontier villages of India, Turtuk gives us a glimpse of the balti way of life. Nestled Deep in the Karakoram mountains you are technically in Baltistan and this can be felt when entering the village. Turtuk village lies close to the Shyok river and you can see glimpses of the mighty K2 from the village.

Baltistan is renowned for its hospitality and it is no different here on the Indian side as well. The locals are predominantly Muslim and are incredibly hospitable and happy to see foreigners. Shy, yet friendly children with rosy cheeks run around the village, inquisitive to know and meet the contrasting breeds of tourists they run into. They are very different from the rest of the people in Ladakh, with bright, colorful designs that stand out amidst all the greenery and stone houses. Villagers can immediately be recognized with their light brown hair and eye color. Turtuk makes its visitors feel like they are in a slice of heaven.

Tutuk is made up of a few villages, out of which Pharol is the main village. The rest of the villages can easily be covered on foot. There is a small monastery as well. Pharol sits on top of a hill. At the edge of the village, there is a cliff, where you will get to see the breathtaking views of the Karakoram mountain range, the adjacent river bank, and the large desert-like plains.

Turtuk was a part of the ancient silk road through which China was connected with Persia and beyond. One can witness the true Baltis culture here and villagers often join in for folk dances and songs. The villagers grow four different varieties of apricots here and this serves as the major source of income for the villagers in Turtuk. Wheat cultivation is also prominent.

To get to Turtuk you have to get across the mighty Khardung-La, with the village situated 205 kilometers away from Leh and 88 kilometers away from Diskit (Nubra Valley). The village sits at an altitude of 3000 meters. Indians can enter Turtuk by showing any government approved ID, but getting an inner line permit with Turtuk mentioned is recommended. Foreign nationals need permits to enter the village. Turtuk is connected to Leh by the Local bus service but, share taxis are the easiest and recommended way of travel here. It is usually a 9-hour journey from Leh, although it is advised to make a halt at Dsikit in the Nubra Valley.




Trekking to Turtuk is possible, It is recommended to travel with experienced guides as the trials are not usually traveled through. This beautiful village is the closest one can get the Baltistan Region and is a must visit for people looking for peaceful and tranquil villages in Ladakh. To this day the village remains untouched by tourism and there is plenty you can do in this gorgeous village. The last Indian village is must visit for adventure lovers as well.

















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