BY ANNE TACHADO

APRIL 4, 2026

If there’s one place I would choose to disappear to, it would be Ladakh. It may sound macabre, but I do have a reason. Set high in the mountains, with much of the region sitting at around 3,000 metres above sea level, it’s not a place you would immediately imagine as being in India, a stark contrast to the vibrant, populous cities the country is known for. Life in Ladakh moves at a much simpler pace, made all the more compelling by the crisp fresh air, the views of the mountains up close, and the endless stars unfolding across the night sky.

You’d think Ladakh itself is remote then Nubra valley is the definition of secluded. On my second visit to Ladakh, I felt drawn to explore further, and that journey led me to Nubra and to Lchang Nang, a retreat tucked in its center.  Nestled in the northernmost region of Ladakh, Nubra is a breathtaking high-altitude desert surrounded by snow-capped mountains.Here you’ll see dramatic landscapes, golden sand dunes,and even rare double-humped Bactrian camels. Reaching this place feels like a rite of passage; you don’t stumble upon it, you come with intention.

IMAGE SOURCE: ANNE TACHADO

The Journey To Nubra Valley

The journey starts in Leh, where the villages slowly give way to rugged cliffs, winding roads, and then snow-covered high passes. Near the end of the drive, we stopped at Khardung La, one of the world’s highest motorable passes, sitting at 5359 m above sea level. One really shouldn’t underestimate the altitude, I struggled to catch my breath, and the nausea hit hard. As we started descending, the feeling eased, and we were greeted by trees glowing in their autumn colors. Before long, we arrived at Lchang Nang. Lchang Nang means “House of Trees,” and the name felt perfectly fitting the moment I first saw the place.

The peak season had just ended, so there weren’t many guests. The quiet and stillness made it easy to soak in the surroundings. My mother joined me and despite her health challenges,  our stay here went smoothly. After checking in, we stepped into our cottage, and I immediately fell in love with the details: the cozy reading nook with sweeping mountain views, the handcrafted decor, skincare products made by Ladakhi artisans, the fragrant tea blends, and our own little sitting area tucked in the garden.

IMAGE SOURCE: ANNE TACHADO

After a short rest, we wandered around the property, and it’s impossible not to notice how well-designed and luxurious the communal areas are. I love how relaxed and intimate everything feels, with natural textures, soft lighting, and views that draw your eyes out to the mountains.  Traditional Ladakhi touches, like locally made rugs and handcrafted details, blend seamlessly with modern comforts. My favorite area would probably be the sunroom where you can curl up with a book, play board games, or do yoga, all while with the serene view of the mountains and gardens before you.

The hospitality? Unmatched. It felt warm without being clinical. My mother struggled with high altitude but the staff made sure that she felt comfortable and could still enjoy her experience despite this situation. They checked in on her gently and often, without ever making it feel intrusive. Small, thoughtful gestures—adjusting meals, pacing activities, and offering reassurance—made a noticeable difference. It felt genuinely caring, as though her wellbeing mattered on a personal level rather than as an obligation. You can also rely on them to help you plan your journey in Nubra. Even for someone like myself with endless questions, I felt as if I learned more about Nubra the more I spoke to them. Every question or curiosity was met with patience, and insight. 

Retreat At Nubra Valley 

Guests at Lchang Nang experience the area through a slow, immersive way that blends culture, and thoughtful luxury. The retreat invites guests to spend time in the area  through guided village walks, nature strolls, and meditation in the nearby monastery. As it’s off season during my visit, these are the activities I mostly did. These experiences are deeply connected to the place, offering quiet moments to observe local life. Everything feels unhurried, giving you a chance to notice everyday life, the mountains changing with the light, and the beauty of the fields around you. 

IMAGE SOURCE: ANNE TACHADO

For those seeking to explore Nubra Valley, the retreat serves as a base for discovering its iconic sights. You can plan excursions to monasteries, high-altitude lakes, river confluences, and the iconic Hunder sand dunes, where you can take in the vast desert landscapes and enjoy quiet walks. Seasonal activities such as  guided farm, river, and nature walks, as well as cycling around the old Silk Route, picnics in meadows, cultural interactions, cooking classes, and more, offer small discoveries that fit naturally into a leisurely stay. 

Cultural experiences are woven throughout the stay. Guests can visit centuries-old Ladakhi homes, share a traditional Ladakhi meal prepared by local women, and, when available, enjoy performances of music and dance that bring the region’s traditions to life.

Regenerative Travel In Nubra

Over a cup of tea, we got to know Rigzin, Lchang Nang’s owner, who had left his engineering career to return to his hometown of Teggar and bring the retreat to life. It’s a passion project, and he’s deeply involved in every part of it—from the construction to working directly with local producers, and even shaping the experiences for guests.I love how everything follows a circular, inclusive approach: he sources produce from local farmers, ensuring they get a fair price, while guests enjoy the freshest, highest-quality products. It’s a win-win for everyone. Walking through the retreat, you can see his care in every corner, the landscaping,  the carefully curated products and the thoughtful spaces that invite you to relax and connect. Rigzin’s dedication gives the place a warmth that feels personal, where every detail reflects both the land and the community he cherishes.

IMAGE SOURCE: ANNE TACHADO

Lchang Nang’s regenerative philosophy encourages meaningful interaction with the local community, allowing guests to participate in everyday practices and understand the region beyond its scenery. Staying here means you’re supporting initiatives that empower the local community to preserve their traditions and continue crafting their heritage. The experience that follows feels intimate, grounded, and quietly enriching—less about rushing through sights and more about truly getting to know Nubra for the duration of your stay. 

As a traveler, I value the lessons each place offers and strive to support the local economy in ways that respect traditions and daily life. Travel is enriching but it should be a goal for guests to contribute meaningfully without disrupting local ways of life or turning comfort into a cost for the community.