Shyok River, also known as the river of death, is the main tributary of the
Indus River in
Ladakh of
Jammu and Kashmir. It originates from the snowy wastes on the Despang plains in northern Ladakh.
Firstly, it meanders towards west, and then towards the north-east by making a U-turn. In its course, Shyok joins the
Nubra River and then flows towards the south. Finally it merges with the Indus River at Keris.
Shyok River marks the south-eastern fringe of the
Karakoram ranges by forming a V-shaped bend around it.
Some of the tributaries which join along its course are Chang Celmo, Chus, Nubra and Saltoro rivers. The entire region is devoid of vegetation, except for areas such as Khapalu, Kunzang, Shukpa and Siari.
Formerly, this river was the trade route for Central Asian traders.
