From a distance Puga looks like a usual valley of green grasslands surrounded by the grey and brown sandy mountains. But from a distance, we can also see a spray of water jutting towards the sky, through the high grasses.

Puga may look ordinary but it feels different even before we can cross over. As we go deeper into the valley, it gets clear that Puga is no ordinary place.

The abundant geo thermal energy and several hot water springs and geysers, adds Puga valley in an extraordinary league.

Hot water and steam springs out from the earth due to an abundance of geo thermal energy. The heat under the earth’s surface heats the ground water to very high temperatures. This heated water gushes out due to the high pressure.

The geysers and springs are mineral rich, resulting in a unique bio diversity and landscape. There is a dense vegetation of indigenous plants and flowers. The earth is soft due to the continuous flow of water.

Grassy mounds have formed in between the soft mud and water.

As we go deeper into the valley, we walk through the dense grass like plants growing through the water collected beneath.

The mud gets squishy, and water oozes out. The water is pleasantly cold and instantly refreshes the skin. These mineral rich waters are healing, supposed to be good for the skin and bones.

The soft mud are traps for the unsuspecting. Our feet often get sucked, knee deep, into the soft earth and cold water. We try to step on the grassy mounds to avoid the sinking earth.

The valley echoes with screams and laughter, as we are stumbling, walking, and hopping on the mounds to escape being stuck in the mud.  

Walking in Puga feels like an we are on alien planet.

Yaks, wild ass, migratory and resident birds are part of the rich eco system. The endangered black necked crane is often found in these parts.

The smell of sulphur lets us know we are nearing the geyser we saw earlier.

Water juts out in bursts of high speed and the heat from the water is felt even though we are standing at a safe distance. Natural deposits of limestone and salt are found around the hot spring.

Puga’s abundant geo thermal energy, healing waters and wildlife are gifts to humans which can be exploited by us. They need to be protected and respected.

The geo thermal energy resources could be harnessed for the benefit of the locals, but without harming the wildlife and eco system.

There is no access road in the valley and as visitors increase, the sensitive vegetation and wildlife could be threatened.

Where is Puga –

Located in Ladhak, it is a 5 to 6 hour drive from the capital city of Leh.

Public transport may not be available for Puga. Rent a bike or car to get to the valley.

Camping options are available in the surrounding areas. I did see locals soaking in pools of water found around Puga valley, however do your research if interested.