Buzz
Turtuk holds a unique geographical position near the Pakistan – India border, surrounded by the majestic Karakoram mountain range and the Shyok River. The harmonious lifestyle of Turtuk's residents, closely connected with nature, taught me a new 'definition' of civilization.
Turtuk – The Beauty of a Village Amidst the India – Pakistan Border
Completely secluded from the outside world, with limited electricity and unfamiliar Wi-Fi, Turtuk, once occupied by Pakistan, has opened its doors to tourists only in recent years.
The village of Turtuk is approximately 205 km from the capital city of Leh, along the Shyok River. With challenging transportation and the primary mode being military buses, the journey is an adventure in itself.
To reach this destination, you must traverse the winding passes of the Nubra Valley with diverse landscapes, ranging from dry limestone mountains to captivating deep ravines.
Especially, you'll conquer the snow-covered Khardung La Pass throughout the year, towering at an altitude of 5,600 meters, acclaimed as the world's highest motorable pass.
In early October, as Turtuk transitions into early autumn, the chill is crisp but not overwhelming, unlike other areas in the Ladakh region. Leaves lazily adorn poplar trees, and dreamy orchards paint a picturesque landscape. Turtuk comprises two main parts, Youl and Pharol, separated by a charming wooden bridge over a cool, visible stream.
Initially, upon setting foot in Turtuk, you might wonder what makes this small town, situated between the Pakistan and India border, stand out amidst the Nubra Valley.
However, as you cross the wooden bridge and venture through narrow alleys deep into the village, you'll feel like stepping into a fairy tale world.
Tiny, weathered mud houses stand closely together, adorned with flower-filled windows amidst vast apricot orchards changing their leaves. The gentle flow of a babbling brook underfoot, the rustling wind, and the joyful laughter of children create a soothing symphony.
In this charming village, men engage in prayer, while women constitute the primary workforce. It's easy to spot robust, round-faced women with high cheekbones and captivating eyes, briskly carrying bundles of wool through narrow lanes or diligently harvesting crops in the fields.
In Turtuk, residents lead a self-sufficient lifestyle. Thanks to the nourishment from the Shayok River, they cultivate wheat, barley, and various crops such as tomatoes and cabbage. Notably, apricots are a common and primary source of income for the people of Turtuk.
Despite living in isolation with limited resources, Turtuk adheres to surprisingly civilized regulations: no smoking, no littering, and don't be astonished if you inquire about bottled water, receiving a gentle shake of the head indicating there's no bottled water available.
They mainly use water directly from the stream running through the village, and similar to other villages in Ladakh, all food is wrapped in newspaper.
Visiting Turtuk offers a chance to experience a life without phones, Wi-Fi, or social media – shedding modern conveniences to immerse in the natural world, a fascinating adventure.
You'll have ample time to step outside, converse with the elderly and children, and listen to intriguing stories about the history and people of this place.
For me, civilization isn't just a broad definition of modernity; through the harmonious and nature-connected lifestyle of Turtuk, they taught me a new 'definition' of civilization.
By Mai Huong/Tuoi Tre News
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Reference: Travel Guide Mytour
MytourOctober 31, 2017
