Restricted for civilians since 1962 and recently opened to tourists (in 2015), Nelong Valley is a must-visit destination. The valley is often referred to as the Ladakh of Uttarakhand because of its similar geography and climate. It was a former Indo-China trade route and today visitors can see the relics of the Gartang Gali wooden bridge and the Lal Devta Mandir. Since it’s part of the Gangotri National park, you could also spot some rare wildlife species like the musk deer, snow leopard, Himalayan blue sheep, and Bharal. Visitors are allowed only on prior permission and fulfillment of basic paperwork. Foreigners are currently not allowed entry to Nelong Valley. A short 30-45 minute drive from Prakriti Retreat takes you to the valley’s entry point and you can easily spend a couple of hours driving through the valley enjoying the surreal natural beauty of the region.