The short answer
Phyang–Hunder Trek (Lasermo La): what visitors should know first
Go only if you are an experienced, well-acclimatised trekker. It takes about five walking days from Phyang to Hunder, crossing Lasermo La at about 5,440 m, with camping throughout. Not suitable for beginners or anyone with heart, lung or knee problems.
History and context
The story behind Phyang–Hunder Trek (Lasermo La)
The route crosses the Ladakh range from Phyang, west of Leh, to Hunder in the Nubra valley over Lasermo La. It is far less walked than Markha, and is run by a few Leh operators.
Useful facts
Phyang–Hunder Trek (Lasermo La) facts at a glance
- Location
- Phyang (Leh) to Hunder (Nubra), Ladakh
- Altitude
- Lasermo La, about 5,440 m (17,840 ft)
- Experience type
- High pass camping trek
- Known for
- A quiet crossing of the Ladakh range into Nubra
- Time or schedule
- About 5 walking days; June to September
Why it matters
Why Phyang–Hunder Trek (Lasermo La) is worth your time
Most visitors reach Nubra by road over Khardung La. Walking there over Lasermo La shows the same crossing on foot, through high grazing grounds and past shepherd huts, and ends among the dunes of the Nubra valley.
Because it is little walked, the route has no homestays and few facilities. Choosing a responsible operator, carrying out all waste and keeping camps away from water sources and grazing grounds helps keep the route as quiet and clean as it is today.
Highlights
What not to miss
- 01
Phyang Monastery
The starting village and its monastery, a short drive from Leh.
- 02
Lasermo La
A high, quiet pass over the Ladakh range, often with snow near the top.
- 03
Hunder
The end point in Nubra, with its sand dunes and Shyok river views.
Plan your visit
How to experience it
Most itineraries start with a drive from Leh to Phyang (about 3,550 m) and its monastery, then a long first day up the valley to the grazing ground at Phyang Phu (about 4,620 m). A short second day reaches the south base of Lasermo La (about 4,950 m).
The third day crosses Lasermo La, at about 5,440 m (17,840 ft), and drops to the north base camp at about 4,900 m. Expect snow near the pass early and late in the season. Two days of descent follow, past meadows and shepherd huts to Hunder Dok (about 4,060 m) and finally Hunder (about 3,160 m), crossing the sand dunes at the end. Vehicles then drive back to Leh over Khardung La, about six hours.
The total is about 59 km over five days. Operators ask for previous experience on a multi-day trek above 4,000 m. Allow at least two to three days in Leh before starting, and carry a winter-rated sleeping bag for the high camps.
Plan with confidence
Small decisions that make the visit easier.
- Have a previous multi-day trek above 4,000 m
- Acclimatise in Leh for at least three days
- Arrange Nubra permits through your operator
- Carry a winter-rated sleeping bag
- Plan the drive back over Khardung La
Know before you go
Timing, access and comfort
- Area
- Phyang, west of Leh, to Hunder, Nubra valley
- Time needed
- About 5 walking days, plus acclimatisation in Leh
- Best time
- June to September; snow is likely on the pass in May and from late September
- Walking level
- Demanding
- Senior comfort
- This is a remote camping trek with two nights near 4,900 m, a high pass and long descents. Older travellers should not attempt it. Parents can visit Phyang Monastery at the start by road, then be driven to Nubra over Khardung La to meet the trekkers at Hunder, staying in a comfortable camp there.
- Tickets and access
- Nubra is a protected area: foreign nationals need a Protected Area Permit arranged in Leh, and Indian citizens should check current permit and environment-fee rules before travelling. Carry original photo ID. Confirm current fees and rules locally, and book through a Leh operator.
Best for
Plan it with
Plan the practical part
Hotels near Phyang–Hunder Trek (Lasermo La)
Staying close keeps journeys short — useful for early starts and for anyone who tires quickly.
Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Prices are live on the partner site.
Travelling with parents?
This is a remote camping trek with two nights near 4,900 m, a high pass and long descents. Older travellers should not attempt it. Parents can visit Phyang Monastery at the start by road, then be driven to Nubra over Khardung La to meet the trekkers at Hunder, staying in a comfortable camp there.
Raahzo can arrange an arrival or day companion who handles tickets, queues and pacing, and keeps the family updated.
See concierge supportFAQs
How high is Lasermo La?
About 5,440 m. Operators give figures between 5,400 m and 5,450 m.
Are there homestays?
No. This is a camping trek, with tents carried by your operator.
How do I get back from Hunder?
By road over Khardung La to Leh, about six hours, usually arranged by the operator.
Sources and further reading
- Ju-Leh Adventure: Nubra valley trek from Phyang to Hunder
- Bikat Adventures: Lasermo La trek
- Himalayan Ecotourism: Phyang to Hunder
Timings, fees and access rules change. Recheck with the official source before you travel.
