An Unexplored Himalayan Valley Near the Tibet Border
Nelong Valley lies within Gangotri National Park in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand. This high-altitude river valley is often compared to the landscapes of Lahaul, Ladakh, and Tibet, earning it the title “Ladakh of Uttarakhand.” The resemblance comes from its cold-desert geography, rocky terrain, sparse vegetation, and minimal rainfall.
Geographically, the valley shares borders with Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh and Tibet, making it one of India’s closest accessible valleys to the Tibetan plateau.
Location and Connectivity of Nelong Valley
Nelong Valley falls within the protected boundaries of Gangotri National Park, one of Uttarakhand’s most ecologically important regions. The valley stretches along the Jaad Ganga River, a significant tributary of the Bhagirathi River.
The valley is well-connected by road up to a certain point, though access remains regulated.
Distances:
- Distance from Dehradun (229 km): Dehradun is the nearest major city and serves as the primary gateway for travelers heading toward Uttarkashi and Harsil.
- Distance from Uttarkashi (91 km): Uttarkashi is the administrative center where permits for Nelong Valley are issued.
- Distance from Harsil (18 km): Harsil is the closest settlement and the preferred base for visitors due to its peaceful surroundings.
- Distance from Gangotri (9 km): Nelong lies very close to the Gangotri pilgrimage route, though it remains a separate and restricted destination.
Tourists usually base themselves in Harsil or Uttarkashi, with Harsil being preferred for its quieter and more scenic surroundings.
From Bhaironghati, located on NH-34, a diversion road (NH-134A) leads into Nelong Valley. This road is maintained by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) under the India–China Border Road Programme, highlighting the strategic importance of the region.
Entry Permit and Travel Restrictions
Due to its location inside a national park and near the international border, entry into Nelong Valley is strictly regulated.
- Inner Line Permit: Every visitor must obtain a permit from the SDM office in Uttarkashi before entering the valley. This permit ensures controlled and monitored access. Read Our Article (How to Get Nelong Valley Permit in 2026: Step-by-Step Process, Fees & Latest Rules )
- No overnight stay allowed: Visitors must return to the Bhaironghati Check Post before evening, as staying overnight inside the valley is prohibited, valley is accessible only during daytime hours.
- Foreign nationals not permitted: Only Indian citizens are allowed to visit Nelong Valley.
- Private vehicles allowed: Visitors can use their own four-wheel vehicles to travel inside the valley.
- Two-wheelers not allowed: Motorcycles are restricted due to road safety and security concerns.
- Drones prohibited: The use of drones is banned because of the valley’s proximity to the international border.
Driving Through the Nelong Valley: What the Route Is Like
From the Bhaironghati Forest Check Post, visitors can drive approximately 23 km to reach the Nelong Valley Check Post at an altitude of 3,500 metres (11,485 ft).
At this checkpoint once stood Nelong Village, which today exists only as ruins. Beyond this point lie other abandoned villages and Janak Tal, but access beyond the check post requires special permission granted only in rare cases.
The route closely follows the Jaad Ganga River, offering dramatic views of rocky mountains, narrow valleys, and glacial streams.
- Hawa Bend (4–5 km from Bhaironghati), known for strong winds
- Pagal Nala, seasonal stream prone to sudden flash floods, especially during snowmelt.
- Hindola Gad (14 km from Bhaironghati), section where the terrain creates a noticeable swinging sensation for vehicles
Abandoned Villages and the Jadh Tribe
Before the 1962 Sino-Indian War, Nelong Valley was home to several villages inhabited by the Jadh Bhotiya tribe. These villages included
- Nelong
- Jadhang
- Sumla
- Dumka
- Pulam Sumda
- Keelang
Near the Nelong Valley Check Post lie the ruins of Nelong village. Beyond this point are other villages and Janak Tal, but access requires special permission, granted only in rare cases.
The Jadh community had long-standing trade and cultural ties with Tibet. People from these villages regularly crossed into Tibet for trade, using traditional mountain routes. However, following the war, all villages were evacuated by 1965, and the Jadh people were resettled in Bagori and Dunda villages.
After evacuation, Nelong Valley remained closed to civilians for nearly 53 years, allowing only military movement. In 2015, the government reopened the valley to Indian travelers, though under strict conditions such as permits, no overnight stays, and controlled access.
Historical Importance of Nelong Valley
Historically, Nelong Valley has been a contested region due to its strategic location between the Bushahr Kingdom, the Tibet Empire, and the Tehri Garhwal State.
- In 1914, the Dzongpen (local Tibetan governor) of Tsaparang attempted to establish a boundary pillar in the valley, but local residents objected.
- Between 1914 and 1921, multiple discussions took place between the Dzongpen and the Tehri State regarding boundary claims.
- Since this was an international matter, the issue was raised with British India, leading to further negotiations with Lhasa.
- After Tibet was occupied by the Chinese Army, China also claimed the valley under Zanda County, Tibet, a claim that continues to this day.
A Valley Closed for Over Five Decades
Due to its strategic location, Nelong Valley remained closed to civilians for nearly 53 years, allowing only military movement. In 2015, the government reopened the valley to Indian tourists under strict conditions, including the inner line permit system and a ban on overnight stays.
Image placement suggestion:
Historical visual: Old village ruins or signboards near the border area.
Purpose: Adds emotional depth and historical context.
Suggested Itineraries
Option 1 (3 Days)
- Day 1: Reach Harsil Valley
- Day 2: Visit Nelong Valley and return to Harsil by evening
- Day 3: Return to home city
Option 2 (4 Days)
- Day 1: Reach Harsil
- Day 2: Explore Bagori Village, Lama Top, and Sattal to learn about the Jadh community
- Day 3: Visit Gartang Gali and Nelong Valley; return to Harsil
- Day 4: Return to home city
Gangotri can be added if time permits.
Travelers interested in the culture and history of the Jadh tribe are encouraged to visit Bagori village before entering Nelong Valley.
Best Time to Visit Nelong Valley
Since Nelong Valley lies inside Gangotri National Park, its opening and closing dates depend on park regulations.
May to June (Summer)
During these months, snow on the roads melts or is cleared by BRO. Temperatures range between 15°C and 2°C, making travel comfortable. Rainfall is minimal, reducing the risk of landslides.
Mid-September to Mid-October (Autumn)
After the monsoon withdraws, the valley experiences clear skies and cooler temperatures ranging from 10°C to -5°C. Visitors must carry adequate winter clothing during this period.
How to Reach Nelong Valley
Traveling by personal vehicle is the most practical option.
- Delhi to Nelong distance: Approximately 534 km
- Route: Delhi → Meerut → Muzaffarnagar → Saharanpur → Dehradun → Suwakholi → Chinyalisaur → Uttarkashi → Harsil → Bhaironghati → Nelong
Travelers can stay in Uttarkashi or Harsil, though Harsil is preferred for its serene environment. The final approach to Nelong Valley begins from Bhaironghati.
Daytime Temperatures
Since visits are limited to daytime, temperatures generally range between:
- May–June: 15°C to 2°C
- Mid-September–Mid-October: 10°C to –5°C
Warm clothing is essential even during summer months.
How to Reach Nelong Valley
The most practical way to visit is by personal vehicle.
- Delhi to Dehradun: Via Meerut, Muzaffarnagar, and Saharanpur (approx. 6 hours)
- Dehradun to Uttarkashi: Via Suwakholi and Chinyalisaur
- Uttarkashi/Harsil to Nelong: Through Bhaironghati
Harsil is preferred for overnight stays due to its serene setting.
Geography, Wildlife, and Watershed
Often called the “Ladakh of Uttarakhand,” Nelong Valley is a cold desert marked by low rainfall and limited vegetation. Wildlife reported in the region includes:
- Brown bear
- Himalayan blue sheep
- Snow leopard
Several glacial streams flow through the valley, eventually forming the Jaad Ganga, which merges with the Bhagirathi River at Bhaironghati.
Important streams (“Gads”) include:
- Tirpani Gad
- Chor Gad
- Mana Gad
- Jadhung Gad
These streams play a crucial role in the valley’s watershed system.
Essential Things to Carry
- Inner Line Permit: Mandatory for entry
- Aadhaar Card: Required for identity verification
- Vehicle RC & Driving Licence: Checked at entry points
- Water bottle: No shops inside the valley
- Snacks: No food stalls or dhabas available
- Sunglasses & sun cap: High-altitude sun exposure
- Sunscreen & moisturizer: Dry and harsh climate
- Warm clothing: Sudden temperature drops are common
There are no shops or dhabas inside the valley, though water is available from glacial streams.
Important Guidelines for Visitors
- No overnight stay: Mandatory return by evening
- Limited facilities: No shops or accommodation inside the valley
- Respect wildlife: Do not disturb animals or their habitat
- Cross streams cautiously: Water levels can change suddenly
- Follow Leave No Trace principles: Carry back all waste
Final Thought
Nelong Valley is not a conventional tourist destination. It is a strategic Himalayan frontier, shaped by history, climate, and geopolitics. For those who respect its rules and limitations, the valley offers a rare glimpse into one of India’s most secluded and historically significant landscapes.