Tso Moriri Lake Ladakh – A Travel Blog
Introduction To Tso-Moriri Lake Ladakh
“According to local legend, Tso Moriri Lake Ladakh got its name from a young girl named Tsomo. She ran after her father’s cherished yak that had wandered onto the frozen lake. Though scared, she called out to the animal using “Ri…Ri…Ri…”—a traditional Ladakhi call for cattle. Tragically, the ice broke beneath them, and both Tsomo and the yak disappeared into the icy waters. Their memory lives on in the name of the lake.”
Mysterious, pristine, alpine, and most importantly — breathtaking — that is Tso Moriri Lake in Ladakh. Let’s uncover the hidden details of this mountain beauty with Cliffhangers India.
Tso Moriri is one of the most beautiful alpine lakes of Ladakh. It has gained recognition as the highest lake in the Indian Subcontinent.
While the brackish lake remains in the offbeat regions of Rupshu Valley in Leh Ladakh, lots of tourists visit here to explore around. Specifically speaking, it is in the Changthang district near the Kurzok village. The hamlet lies on the northeastern shore of the alpine lake.
The entire area comes under protection as the TsoMoriri Wetland Conservation Reserve.
The Tso Moriri Lake Ladakh is spread across 29 kilometres in length and is 8 kilometres wide. This endorheic lake is surrounded by barren hills and snow-capped peaks, creating a surreal landscape that captivates every visitor. The gorgeous lake has a maximum depth of around 33 meters. It comes within the Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary.
The entire region radiates natural beauty and is filled with a number of species. Marmots, Tibetan Wolfs, and Migratory birds are often spotted in proximity.
The lake is located at a distance of around 219 kilometres from the capital city of Leh. The driving time goes up to 6-7 hours. You can easily find a cab or a taxi for the road trip.
Key Information Regarding Tso Moriri Lake:
Width: 5 Kilometres
Depth: 40 metres(130 feet)
Area: 120 km²
Altitude: 4522 metres(14,836 feet) above sea level.
Type: Brackish Lake.
Basin: Closed drainage basin
Location: Changthang plateau, Leh Ladakh, India.
Status: Oligotrophic lake
Village Nearby: Korzok village
Altitude of Tso Moriri
Tso Moriri Lake is located at an altitude of around 4,522 metre (14,836 feet). Unlike Pangong, it is present completely in Ladakh, even after lying at such high altitudes.
When visiting Tso Moriri Lake, Ladakh, it is very crucial to understand the altitude factor. Acclimatize properly in Leh by spending a couple of days. This reduces huge chances of Acute Mountain Sickness and related symptoms.
Keep some altitude medicines in your first aid box in case you need it.
Fast Facts About Tso Moriri Lake Ladakh: Tso Moriri is a high-altitude saltwater lake, not a freshwater one, adding to its uniqueness in the Ladakh region.
Highlights of Tso Moriri Lake Ladakh
Here are the highlights of Tso Moriri Lake Ladakh.
Alpine Beauty: Tso Moriri, lying in the Changthang region of Ladakh, is one of the highest lakes in India at an altitude of around 4,522 meters (14,836 feet). The lake is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and rough terrain, offering beautiful panoramic views. The landscape is serene and is found in a natural setting.
- Ecological Significance: Designated as a Ramsar Wetland Site, Tso Moriri is an important breeding ground for several endangered bird species including the Black-necked Crane and the Bar-headed Goose. The lake and its surrounding wetlands serve as a habitat for migratory birds and other wildlife like Tibetan gazelles and kiangs (wild asses). As you visit here, wildlife spotting and bird watching are a must do activity here.
- 3. Cultural and Spiritual Importance: Tso Moriri even holds spiritual and cultural significance for the local Changpa nomads and is considered sacred by Buddhists. The Korzok Monastery, located on the western shores of the lake, is known for its spiritual charm and adds historical depth to the surrounding region. The monastery must be in the itinerary as you visit the stunning lake.
- 4. Offbeat Travel Destination: If you are looking for a peaceful experience, you can skip the crowded Pangong Lake and visit Tso Moriri, Ladakh instead. Since it is less commercialized than Pangong Lake, the lake offers a peaceful, crowd-free experience for travelers. Its remote location preserves its raw beauty. Moreover, its restricted access keeps the mystery alive. The lake is visited by adventure lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.
- Hotspot for outdoor activities: At Tso moriri, you can enjoy a number of fun and engaging sports. While most of them are recreational only, you get a memorable experience. The offers some gorgeous yet safe spots for camping. You must have dreamt of lying under the star-lit sky with crystal clear views of the cosmos. Well, you get a lifetime opportunity at Tso moriri. As you are at one of those campsites, plan a guided stargazing tour. The high altitude of the lake and minimal to no pollution offers convenient stargazing conditions. While you can spend your mornings bird-watching at the Reserve, take a stroll in the nearby village, like Kurzok, for added local experience. The vicinity of Tso Moriri Lake is not just about natural splendor; it’s also close to several monuments of Ladakh that reflect the region’s historical depth.
Best Time to Visit Tso Moriri Lake
The best time to visit Tso Moriri Lake Ladakh is from May to September. In the summer season, the temperature in the area remains around 10°C to 20°C. Mild temperature levels keep the weather warm and balmy.
The lake remains accessible in the summer as well as early autumn months. If you are looking for sightseeing here, May and June is the ideal time as you can still see the beauty of snow patches of the surrounding mountain. Even the migratory birds in the Ramsar Wetland Site can easily be spotted. However, if you are looking for trekking and camping experience, months like July, August and September offer better weather conditions.
During these months, even the road leading to Tso Moriri from Leh is motorable and in good condition.
For the rest of the year(October to April), the lake is inaccessible due to extremely cold weather conditions. The lake remains frozen due to subzero temperature experienced in the region. The area, roads and lake are completely covered in snow.
- May: Snowy mountain views
- June: Migratory bird spotting
- July: Best for trekking
- August: Ideal for camping
- September: Great for photography
- October–April: Frozen and inaccessible
Fast Facts About Tso Moriri Lake Ladakh: The lake is nestled within the Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary, surrounded by stark mountains and snow-capped ridges that create a dreamlike setting.
Attractions at Tso Moriri
Tso Moriri Lake is one of the popular attractions of Leh Ladakh. It is often part of the Ladakh trip itinerary. Here are a few things that makes it a huge attraction among tourists:
To say the least, the most attractive thing about the Tso Moriri Lake, Ladakh is its raw, natural, heavenly beauty that manages to capture every nature lover’s heart. It is one of the most photographic locations in the entire Ladakh region.
Not only is it gorgeous, the lake also accommodates more than 30 species of birds, among which,14 of them are water or aquatic birds. Tso Moriri Lake has geese, ducks, and gulls
If you are someone who is into bird watching, do visit here to spot some rare species like black necked cranes, great crested grebe and brown-headed gulls.
The lake and its surrounding is a huge breeding ground for Black-necked cranes outside of China. It is also the only place in our country where Bar-headed geese are found.
As you explore the surroundings here, spot animals like Snow leopard, Tibetan Wolf, Tibetan Ass, Tibetan Gazelle, etc. There are also “Bharals,” or wild goats, around the lake.
A popular festival of the region, Korzok Gustor Festival, is celebrated wholeheartedly annually at the Kurzok Monastery. The entire area is covered in the colours of the festival
According to legend, the roots of the Kurzkok Festival trace back to the 9th century, when a brave Buddhist monk stood up against the dark forces threatening Ladakh’s spiritual heritage. The story tells of King Langdarma, a ruler determined to wipe out Buddhism from the region. But in a dramatic twist of fate, a devoted monk took a stand and ended the king’s reign, restoring peace and the Buddhist way of life. Today, the Kurzkok Festival celebrates this powerful triumph of good over evil and the enduring spirit of Buddhism, echoing through the sacred halls of the monastery with vibrant rituals and age-old traditions.
Last but not the least, one of the major attractions of the Tso Moriri Lake is the Korzok Monastery, built around 400 years ago. It lies on the western bank of the lake and houses a statue of Shakyamuni Buddha and other Buddhist paintings. Around 70 monks live inside the monastery. Considered spiritually significant and sacred by the locals, the wetland’s water is not used for any personal or commercial purpose to retain its sanctity.
Not only is Tso Moriri a paradise for nature lovers, but it also offers thrilling activities to try in Ladakh, such as trekking through the surrounding terrain, camping by the lakeside, and witnessing the majestic wildlife.
| Destination | Distance from Tso Moriri | Route(s) | Travel Time (Approx.) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Tso Kar Lake
|
~50 km
|
Tso Moriri → Sumdo → Puga → Tso Kar
|
1.5 – 2 hrs
|
Saltwater lake with scenic, white shores and birdlife.
|
|
Hanle |
~160 km
|
Tso Moriri → Nyoma → Loma → Hanle
|
5 – 6 hrs
|
Remote village with a top astronomical observatory.
|
|
Korzok Village
|
0 km
|
Tso Moriri → Sumdo → Puga
|
1 – 1.5 hrs
|
Known for geothermal springs and sulphur deposits.
|
|
Nyoma |
~80 km
|
Tso Moriri → Mahe → Nyoma
|
2.5 – 3 hrs
|
Military zone; ILP required.
|
|
Mahe Bridge
|
~60 km
|
Tso Moriri → Mahe
|
1.5 – 2 hrs
|
Checkpoint on route to/from Leh or Hanle.
|
|
Chumathang Hot Springs
|
~130 km
|
Tso Moriri → Mahe → Chumathang
|
4 – 5 hrs
|
Relaxing natural hot springs.
|
|
Leh |
~220 km
|
Tso Moriri → Mahe → Upshi → Leh
|
7 – 8 hrs
|
Capital of Ladakh. Base for most nearby attractions.
|
|
Hemis National Park
|
~230 km
|
Tso Moriri → Mahe → Upshi → Hemis
|
7 – 8 hrs
|
Largest national park in India; snow leopard territory.
|
|
Shanti Stupa
|
~225 km
|
Tso Moriri → Leh → Shanti Stupa
|
7.5 – 8 hrs
|
White-domed stupa with panoramic views of Leh.
|
|
Gurudwara Pathar Sahib
|
~250 km |
Tso Moriri → Leh → NH1 to Nimmu
|
8 – 9 hrs |
Historic Sikh site near Magnetic Hill.
|
|
Leh Palace |
~225 km
|
Tso Moriri → Leh → Leh Palace |
7.5 – 8 hrs
|
17th-century palace with Tibetan architecture.
|
|
Jama Masjid (Leh) |
~225 km |
Tso Moriri → Leh
|
7.5 – 8 hrs
|
Prominent mosque in the heart of Leh market.
|
|
Magnetic Hill |
~255 km
|
Tso Moriri → Leh → NH1 to Magnetic Hill |
8 – 9 hrs |
Optical illusion where cars appear to move uphill.
|
|
Diskit Monastery |
~360 km |
Tso Moriri → Leh → Khardung La → Nubra → Diskit |
10 – 11 hrs |
Oldest monastery in Nubra, with a giant Buddha statue.
|
|
Lamayuru Monastery |
~320 km |
Tso Moriri → Leh → NH1 towards Kargil → Lamayuru |
9 – 10 hrs
|
Ancient monastery in ‘Moonland’ landscape.
|
Distance of Tso Moriri from Other important places
- Leh to Tso moriri – 220
Tso Moriri Lake is present at a distance of around 220 kilometres from the Leh city.
- Pangong lake to Tso moriri – 366
Pangong Lake and Tso Moriri are two major alpine lakes of Ladakh. A total distance of around 366 kilometres separate these two water bodies.
- Nubra valley to Tso moriri – 353
If you are looking to directly visit Tso Moriri from Nubra Valley, you have to cover around 353 kilometres. It is a long day road journey.
- Diskit to Tso moriri – 307
Total distance between Diskit(Nubra Valley) to Tso Moriri is around 307 kilometres.
- Kargil to Tso moriri – 433
Tso Moriri lies at a distance of around 433 kilometres from the Kargil district of Ladakh.
- Tso Moriri to Hanle -150
A small distance needs to be covered to reach Hanle from Tso Moriri Lake. Tourists often cover these two major attractions on the trip.
Places to Visit in Tso moriri
Tso Moriri Lake Point
As the name suggests, Tso Moriri Lake Point is a small hill atop near the lake. It is known to present the best views of the lake. Known as a sightseeing spot, you can sit there for sometime and witness the changing colours of the beautiful lake.
So much so that, you will be astonished to see the beauty of the views seen from here. The snowclad mountains in the background complete the scenery. It is only 6.4 kilometres away from the main lake shore and you can easily trek here.
- Distance: 6.4 km from lake shore
- Highlight: Offers panoramic views of the lake and surrounding snow-clad mountains
Tso moriri conservation reserve
Tso Moriri Conservation reserve is the total area which includes Tso Moriri Lake and the surrounding region. It was also declared Ramsar Site, the highest site of India, back in November 2002.
Since the lake is breeding home to a number of birds, it was named so. Here, you can spot various among others such as black necked crane, bar headed geese, great crested grebe, etc. In the nearby areas, animals like Eurasian Lynx, Himalayan blue sheep, Tibetan Wolf, Tibetan Gazelle, etc. With prior permission, you can explore the reserve with activities like wildlife spotting and bird watching.
- Distance: Surrounds the lake
- Highlight: Ramsar site known for rare bird and wildlife sightings
Korzok Monastery
One of the best places to visit in Tso Moriri Leh Ladakh has to be the Kurzok Monastery. Lying on the northwestern bank of the lake, it is present in the Kurzok village of the Changthang district.
The timeless monastery is around 400 years old, founded by Kunga Lodro Ningpo. The Buddhist monastery allows us to dive deep into the spiritual experience. It is a highly renowned Gompa of the region. Even though the monastery is at a distance of around 26 kilometres away from the lake, you get beautiful sights from here.
- Distance: 26 km from Tso Moriri
- Highlight: 400-year-old monastery offering spiritual vibes and scenic beauty
How to Reach Tso Moriri Lake
You can reach Tso Moriri Lake Ladakh via different ways. Air, train and road trips are among the most convenient options.
- By Air: Air travel is among the most comfortable and fastest ways. Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport is the nearest international airport from the lake. As you arrive, drive to the Leh city, located around 2.5 kilometres. From Leh, it is another 6 hour road trip to Tso Moriri. You have to cover around 219 kilometres to reach the lake from the capital city.
- By Train: Visitors can also opt for a train journey instead. The closest railhead Jammu Tawi Railway Station lies in the Jammu region, at a distance of around 792 kilometres from Tso Moriri. While it does take time, the journey is quite comfortable and affordable.
- By Road: Lastly, road trips are often planned by adventure enthusiasts to reach the beautiful lake. The road journey from Leh to Tso Moriri goes through Upshi, continuing to the Changthang plateau. A total distance of around 219 kilometres to cover, taking 7-8 hours. The road conditions are so good that you are surely in for a thrilling treat during the entire voyage.
If we divide the road trip into different parts, the first one consists of a smooth drive to Upshi. As you move forward, the road is rough and unpaved till Changthang. Lastly, all you come through are dirt tracks via Mahe, Sumdho, Kurzok and finally Tso Moriri.
You can visit here from different parts of Kashmir as well as India.
- Srinagar to Tso Moriri- 782 kilometres (2 days).
- Leh to Tso Moriri- 219 kilometres (6-8 hours).
- Manali to Tso Moriri- 406 kilometres (8-10 hours). Make sure to check road conditions and weather forecasts for a smooth drive.
Fast Facts About Tso Moriri Lake Ladakh: Weather conditions at Tso Moriri can be extreme, days may feel mild in summer, but nights are consistently cold with sudden winds and shifting skies. Layered clothing is strongly advised.
Is Permission Required for Tso Moriri Lake?
In Leh Ladakh, tourists need special permits to explore some regions. Tso Moriri is among one of them.
Indian Nationals or Domestic tourists require Inner Line Permit (ILP) to visit Tso Moriri Lake. On the other hand, Foreign Nationals must have Protected Area Permit(POP) to explore the lake.
You need to pay INR 400 as environmental fee and INR 20 each day per head to get the permit. You can obtain it from the www.lahdc permit.com.
Keep in mind that no such special permit is required to travel on the Srinagar-Leh Highway, Leh-Manali Highway, and Zanskar Highway.
While you can surely get the permit yourself, it would be a smoother experience with Cliffhangers India. As you get in contact with the team, we provide everything including permits in our Leh Ladakh Packages.
Fast Facts About Tso Moriri Lake Ladakh: Foreign nationals must also carry a special permit, usually arranged through registered travel agents.
Mobile Network & Internet Availability at Tso Moriri
There is no mobile network and Internet Connectivity at Tso Moriri Lake, Ladakh. And, Who needs it anyway? When you have such mesmerizing beauty in front of you, you won’t be bothered about what’s happening in the world. However, you may want to share your itinerary with a trusted one before visiting here.
Travel Tips For Tso Moriri Lake
- Acclimatisation: It is no secret that it is an alpine lake. Tso Moriri lake’s altitude in feet is around 14,836 feet. For an ill-free experience, you can spend a couple of days in Leh cities before getting behind the wheels to the lake. This will help you in the long run as you would blend in gradually with the climate and elevation.
- Permits: Obtain Inner Line Permit (ILP) and Protected Area Permit (POP) before visiting Tso Moriri Lake. These permits can be obtained online or from the District Magistrate’s office in Leh. Foreign nationals also need permits, which can be obtained through travel agents.
- Weather conditions: The Tso Moriri temperature can fluctuate drastically. During the day in summer, it can be pleasant, but nights are always cold. Be prepared for strong winds and sudden changes in weather. Layering your clothing is essential.
- Clothing: Irrespective of the season you are visiting, carry some warm woolens like thermals, sweaters, cardigans, beanies, warm socks, gloves to remain warm and cosy.
- Early drive: Plan the road trip to Tso Moriri Lake early in the morning to get there before nightfall, irrespective of the route you chose.
- Food and dining: Food and dining options near Tso Moriri Lake are quite a few. Some of them include: Bon Appetit, The Tibetan Kitchen, Sky Wok Restaurant, Namza Cafe and many more.
- Accomodation(camping): Camping on the lake shores at Tso Moriri is strictly prohibited. Don’t pitch your tents near it. If you are into camping, get in touch with officials regarding the safe area to do so. You can also get homestays in nearby villages like Kurzok.
- Medications: Keep a first aid box including mountain sickness medicines and other basic ones. You may need it since the lake is located at such high altitudes.
- Photography: Tso Moriri will present some of the most breathtaking views of your life. Why would you miss such an opportunity to capture it forever? Bring a camera, lens and a tripod for gorgeous clicks.
FAQ's
Tso Moriri is famous for its raw beauty and the ability to change colour throughout the day. Other attractions here include the Tso Moriri Conservation Reserve, Kurzok Monastery, etc.
Both Pangong and Tso Moriri are two of the most popular alpine lakes of Kashmir. However, in recent years, Pangong has commercialised a lot, leading to overcrowding. If you are looking for a more peaceful experience, Tso Moriri is a more suitable choice.
You can explore Tso Moriri and the surrounding area for a maximum of two days. It includes the drive, sightseeing and back to Leh city.
Yes, if you are an Indian National, you need an Inner Line Permit (ILP). Foreign Nationals require Protected Area Permit (POP) for Tso Moriri Lake.
At Tso Moriri Lake you can enjoy breathtaking views, spot rare migratory birds and wildlife, visit the nearby Korzok Monastery, interact with Changpa nomads and go for serene walks along the shore.
Tso Moriri Lake is about 220 km from Leh, and the drive usually takes 7 to 9 hours
The lake is situated at an altitude of approximately 14,836 feet (4,522 meters) above sea level, making it one of the highest lakes in the world.
Tso Moriri Lake is located in the Changthang region of the Leh district, in the union territory of Ladakh, India.
You can reach Tso Moriri from Leh by road, choosing among several scenic routes such as via Chumathang or Tso Kar, crossing high mountain passes and beautiful valleys along the way.
Tso Moriri Lake is nestled in the remote Changthang plateau, surrounded by barren hills and snow-capped peaks, near the village of Korzok in Ladakh.
arab Tso Lake and Tso Moriri Lake are both stunning high-altitude lakes in Ladakh, but they differ in location and accessibility. Yarab Tso Lake, often called the “hidden lake,” is located near Panamik village in Nubra Valley and requires a short uphill trek to reach. It is a sacred, secluded spot not frequented by many tourists. In contrast, Tso Moriri Lake lies in the Changthang region near the village of Korzok, and is much larger and more accessible by road. Both lakes offer unique landscapes and cultural significance, making them worth including in a Leh Ladakh 5 days itinerary.
