Travelling to Nubra Valley in Ladakh could soon become easier and more convenient, with officials aiming to begin civilian flight operations at Thoise Airport by December 2026. Currently, Leh is the only airport in Ladakh with regular commercial flight services. Tourists heading to Nubra Valley have to fly to Leh and then undertake a road journey through the region’s challenging mountainous terrain. The opening of Thoise Airport for civilian flights could offer more direct access to Nubra Valley and nearby destinations such as Turtuk and Siachen Base Camp. Scroll down to know more.
Nubra Valley In Ladakh To Get Direct Flights Soon
As per a report by News18, the proposed move was brought up at a review meeting chaired by Ladakh Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena at Ladakh Bhawan in New Delhi. Authorities from the Ministry of Defence, the Ministry of Civil Aviation, the Indian Air Force, the Airports Authority of India and the Ladakh administration examined the preparations required to start civil operations at Thoise and Kargil airports.
If reports are to be believed, authorities are aiming for December 2026 for the start of civilian flight operations at Thoise Airport. Initially, flights are expected to operate from the existing charter terminal after it undergoes necessary renovations. However, December is now only a target and not a confirmed launch date. Airlines, routes, flight schedules, fares and ticket booking details have not yet been announced. Civilian operations will depend on the completion of infrastructure work and the fulfilment of regulatory and operational requirements.
Runway Work Underway At Thoise
For the Thoise Airport, the Indian Air Force has approved five acres of land for the construction of a new civil terminal in Nubra Valley. Meanwhile, runway resurfacing work is underway and is expected to be completed by November. To ensure an earlier start to civilian services, authorities plan to renovate the existing charter terminal and use it for passengers until the proposed new terminal is developed.
The Airports Authority of India has also been instructed to identify the infrastructure required for civilian operations and submit its recommendations to the Union Territory administration. Ladakh’s Public Works Department will undertake the necessary refurbishment based on this assessment.
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What Could Direct Flights To Nubra Valley Mean For Passengers?
The recommended civilian service at Thoise could minimise travellers’ reliance on Leh as Ladakh’s primary air gateway. Instead of travelling from Leh to Nubra Valley by road, visitors could eventually fly closer to their destination.
The connectivity could also make places such as Turtuk, Siachen Base Camp and other parts of Nubra easier to access. Better air connectivity could benefit tourists, local residents and businesses, particularly when road travel is affected by Ladakh’s difficult terrain and weather conditions.
For now, however, travellers should continue planning their Ladakh trips through Leh Airport, as commercial flights to Thoise have not yet been officially announced.
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Well, good news for travellers planning a trip to Ladakh.
Cover Image Courtesy: Pexels/Ethan Sarkar, nithin ajayan
FAQs
Is one day enough for Nubra Valley?
No, one day is not enough. A round trip from Leh to Nubra Valley takes 8 to 12 hours of driving over high mountain passes like Khardung La, leaving very little time to see the sights.
Is Nubra Valley higher than Leh?
No, Nubra Valley is lower than Leh.
Which is better, Nubra Valley or Pangong Lake?
Nubra Valley is better for cultural exploration, diverse landscapes (sand dunes and green villages), and comfortable stays at a lower altitude (3,150m). Pangong Lake is better for dramatic, surreal scenery and vivid blue waters.