Chumathang Hot Spring: Soothing Himalayan Stopover You Should Not Miss

Ladakh is one destination where nature's rugged beauty takes your breath away at every turn. From the surreal blue of Pangong Lake to the golden dunes of Nubra Valley, every place feels like a postcard come to life. If you wish to visit an offbeat spot in Ladakh, then Chumathang village must be on your bucket list. Not long ago, travel vlogger Rahul Yadav shared a video on Instagram, offering details of this unique location, with a special highlight on the hot springs.

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The clip opened with Rahul Yadav boiling eggs in the natural sulphur hot springs as steam rose from the pools. “Yahan ke mitti se hi garam pani nikalta hai (Hot water comes out directly from the soil here)”, claimed the vlogger. He added that locals believe the mineral-rich water has therapeutic properties that can help with several skin concerns, including allergies, sore joints and stiff muscles.

“These geothermal springs are formed due to underground volcanic activity, where heat from the Earth's crust warms the trapped water, creating soothing pools even in sub-zero temperatures,” wrote the creator in the caption.

Also Read: 4 Best Treks In Ladakh For An Unforgettable Experience

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What Is Special About Chumathang Hot Spring?

Chumathang Hot Spring, located in Ladakh's Leh district near the Indus River, sits along the route to the well-known Tso Moriri Lake. Perched 3,300 metres above sea level and surrounded by snow-covered mountains, the village offers a natural pause point for travellers navigating central Ladakh. The warm water and gentle steam rising from the ground add a dreamlike quality, especially when framed by the stark Himalayan landscape.

Facilities Available At Chumathang Hot Spring:

Chumathang is not a heavily developed tourist area, but the basic amenities are practical. Simple changing areas are located near certain accessible sections of the spring, and local families run small eateries and tea stalls nearby. Parking is generally available along the roadside, and homestays ensure visitors have access to restrooms. As it is a geothermal site, some pools are fenced off for safety, and only designated areas are appropriate for bathing.

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Best Time To Visit Chumathang Hot Spring:

The best time to visit is during the summer months from May to September, when the roads remain open and temperatures are reasonably mild. Winter in Ladakh is undeniably scenic, but the harsh cold and frequent snowfall often make this route inaccessible.

How To Reach Chumathang Hot Spring?

Chumathang is approximately 138 kilometres from Leh city centre, and the drive takes around 2 hours and 40 minutes via the NH 3 route. Much of the journey runs alongside the Indus River, offering expansive views that set the tone for the hot spring visit.

Accommodation Options Near Chumathang Hot Spring:

Chumathang itself has modest homestays with simple rooms and home-cooked meals. The settlements of Nyoma and Mahe provide slightly larger guesthouses with basic facilities. Travellers heading towards Tso Moriri often choose Korzok, where camps and lodges overlook the lake. These choices allow visitors to plan their route without rushing through long distances in a single day.

Entry Fees, Permissions And Safety Advice:

The hot spring generally does not have a formal entry fee, although small contributions may be requested by local residents for maintenance. While no special permit is needed specifically for Chumathang Hot Spring, Inner Line Permits are required for several parts of Ladakh, including areas near the border. Safety is important around geothermal pools, as the temperatures can vary. Visitors should avoid stepping on fragile surfaces or entering sections that are not marked for bathing. Children require close supervision at all times.

Also Read: 5 Wild Adventures In Ladakh You Need To Try Before You Die

Weather Conditions And Altitude Tips:

Given the high altitude, acclimatisation is essential before travelling beyond Leh. This region experiences quick weather changes, with warm daytime sunlight and chilly evenings even in summer. Carrying warm layers, sunscreen and adequate water helps make the trip more comfortable. These simple preparations ensure travellers enjoy both the hot spring and the scenic drives leading to it.

Responsible Travel Guidelines:

As travellers adapt to the terrain and weather, it is equally important to remain mindful of the environment. Chumathang Hot Spring lies within an ecologically sensitive zone. Visitors are encouraged to avoid littering, stay within designated bathing areas and respect the local geothermal formations. Supporting local businesses, including food stalls and homestays, directly benefits the community that preserves this unique landscape.

Best Places To Visit Near Chumathang Hot Spring:

Shanti Stupa: This revered Buddhist site offers a sense of peace. Although the climb involves 500 stairs, the panoramic views of Leh from the top are worth the effort.

Thiksey Monastery: Affiliated with the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism, this monastery houses a striking Maitreya Buddha statue that overlooks the Indus Valley.

Pangong Tso: The Tibetan term Pangong Tso translates to high grassland lake. Surrounded by Himalayan peaks, the lake stretches along the India-China border and is known for its shifting tones of blue.

Other activities: The region is well suited for scenic trekking and hiking trails. Many travellers choose shorter village walks near Chumathang or longer routes around Nyoma to take in the high-altitude terrain at an unhurried pace.

The Bottom Line:

Chumathang Hot Spring is one of those Ladakh spots that stays with you long after the journey ends. It is not crowded, not commercial and not a place that demands speed. Instead, it offers warmth in the middle of a cold desert, steam rising gently against rugged mountains and a quiet reminder of how unusual and striking the Himalayas can be. With simple facilities, welcoming residents and several notable attractions nearby, Chumathang serves as a refreshing break on a long route and a subtle glimpse into the natural richness tucked away in Ladakh's remote corners.