Nelong Valley Information:
Nelong Valley is a hidden gem located in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, near the Indo-Tibetan border. Nestled at an altitude of about 11,000 feet (3,350 meters), this valley is part of the Gangotri National Park and was opened to tourists in 2015 after being closed for decades due to its proximity to the border with China.
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Tibetan Plateau-Like Landscape: Nelong Valley offers a stark and rugged terrain similar to the landscape of Ladakh or Tibet. The barren mountains and unique rock formations make it a visual treat for those interested in offbeat destinations.
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Historic Silk Route: The valley was once part of the ancient Indo-Tibetan Silk Route. Remnants of the old trade route can still be seen, including the wooden bridges and pathways used by traders.
Activities in Nelong Valley:
- Sightseeing & Photography: Capture stunning Tibetan plateau-like landscapes, gorges, and snow-capped peaks.
- Historical Exploration: Discover remnants of the ancient Indo-Tibetan Silk Route, including old wooden bridges.
- Wildlife Watching: Spot wildlife like snow leopards, Himalayan ibex, and blue sheep in Gangotri National Park.
- Trekking & Hiking: Enjoy limited short hikes with breathtaking views of the valley and mountains.
- Adventure Drives: Experience thrilling off-road drives through rugged mountain roads.
- Bird Watching: Observe high-altitude bird species like the Himalayan monal and Tibetan snowcock.
Permits are required, and camping is not allowed. Visitors typically stay in nearby towns like Harsil.
Inclusions:
- Permit Assistance: Help with obtaining the Inner Line Permit required for visiting Nelong Valley.
- Transportation: Depending on the package, transportation from Uttarkashi or Gangotri to Nelong and back.
- Guide: A local guide may be included to provide insight into the valley's history and routes.
- Entrance Fee: Entry fees for Gangotri National Park, where Nelong Valley is located.
- Basic First Aid: First aid provisions in case of minor injuries or altitude sickness.
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Exclusions:
- Accommodation: No stay or camping is allowed inside Nelong Valley. Accommodation in nearby areas like Harsil or Uttarkashi is not typically included.
- Meals: Meals are usually not included in the valley tour; visitors need to carry their own food.
- Personal Expenses: Items like snacks, drinks, or souvenirs are not covered.
- Photography Restrictions: Some areas, especially near military posts, may have restrictions on photography.
- Emergency Evacuation: Any cost related to emergency evacuation or serious medical issues is excluded.
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Short Itinerary
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Nelong Valley, located in Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, is a remote and sensitive area near the Indo-Tibetan border. Here's how you can travel to Nelong Valley:
Step-by-Step Travel Guide:
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Reach Dehradun/Rishikesh:
- The nearest major cities are Dehradun (Jolly Grant Airport) and Rishikesh, both well-connected by road, rail, and air.
- From Dehradun, you can travel by road to Uttarkashi.
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Drive to Uttarkashi:
- From Dehradun or Rishikesh, you can take a 6-8 hour drive (approx. 160-180 km) to Uttarkashi, the nearest major town to Nelong Valley.
- Taxis and buses are available for travel from Dehradun to Uttarkashi.
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Obtain Inner Line Permit (ILP):
- You need an Inner Line Permit (ILP) to visit Nelong Valley, which can be obtained from the SDM office in Uttarkashi. You will need to carry valid identity proof (Aadhar, voter ID, etc.) and passport-sized photos.
- Only Indian citizens are allowed to visit, and foreign nationals are not permitted.
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Travel to Gangotri or Bhaironghati:
- After securing the permit, travel from Uttarkashi to Bhaironghati (23 km from Gangotri). The drive from Uttarkashi to Bhaironghati takes around 3-4 hours.
- Bhaironghati is the nearest accessible point to the valley.
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Entry to Nelong Valley:
- From Bhaironghati, a restricted road leads to Nelong Valley, which is typically only accessible by a 4x4 vehicle. The valley lies at an altitude of 11,000 feet and offers spectacular views.
- You can visit the valley as part of a day trip, as there are no accommodations or camping options allowed inside the valley.
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Return to Uttarkashi:
- Since staying overnight in Nelong is not allowed, visitors need to return to nearby towns like Harsil, Gangotri, or Uttarkashi for accommodation.
Important Notes:
- Best Time to Visit: May to October, as the valley remains closed in winter due to heavy snow.
- Permits and Restrictions: Ensure you have the necessary permits and be aware of restrictions on photography in certain areas.
- Travel in Groups: Since it's a sensitive area, it’s advisable to travel with a guide or in a group.
Travel to Nelong Valley is an adventurous and offbeat experience, offering a glimpse of the Tibetan plateau-like landscape and the remnants of the ancient Silk Route.
