tso-moriri-lake-leh-ladakh-1-musthead-hero

Ladakh

Tso Moriri

tso-moriri-lake-leh-ladakh-2-musthead-hero
tso-moriri-lake-leh-ladakh-3-musthead-hero
tso-moriri-lake-leh-ladakh-4-musthead-hero
tso-moriri-lake-leh-ladakh-1-musthead-hero
tso-moriri-lake-leh-ladakh-2-musthead-hero
tso-moriri-lake-leh-ladakh-3-musthead-hero
tso-moriri-lake-leh-ladakh-4-musthead-hero
map

January

-20.0 - 6.3 °C

February

-15.9 - 9.3 °C

March

-10.4 - 15.9 °C

April

-3.7 - 20.8 °C

May

0.6 - 24.8 °C

June

4.7 - 30.7 °C

July

10.5 - 33.4 °C

August

9.7 - 33.2 °C

September

2.3 - 28.8 °C

October

-6.3 - 22.8 °C

November

-12.9 - 16.0 °C

December

-16.5 - 9.6 °C


Major Airports :

Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport (IXL), Leh

Nearest Railway Station :

Jammu Tawi Railway Station (JAT)

Major Airports :

Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport (IXL), Leh

A symphony of heaven and nature

Less than 250 kms southeast of Leh, the high-altitude Tso Moriri is picturesquely situated in the remote, breathtakingly gorgeous Rupshu Valley. Approximately 4,000 metres above sea level, this tranquil lake is surrounded by towering mountains. Tso Moriri is up to 8 kms broad and roughly 29 kms long. A variety of animals can be seen at Tso Moriri, such as marmots, migratory birds, and infrequently, Tibetan wolves.

Among the most exquisite, serene, and revered (by Ladakhis) high altitude lakes in India is Tso Moriri, located in Changthang district of Ladakh. At its widest point, this beautiful lake with a blue palette is around 7 kms wide and 19 kms long. It is officially known as Tso Moriri Wetland Conservation Reserve and is a wetland reserve under the Ramsar site. Tents and other structures are not allowed to be erected close to the lake's edge. It is the world's highest Ramsar site. Obtaining an Inner Line Permit is mandatory for visiting Tso Moriri due to its close proximity to the Line of Actual Control.

This lake's stunning array of blue hues, together with the surrounding scenic scenery, give this spot an incredibly romantic and enchanting vibe.

Never a dull moment

At Tso Moriri in Leh, Ladakh, there is an array of captivating activities to indulge in, offering you a memorable experience amidst the breathtaking Himalayan scenery. Capture the mesmerising beauty of Tso Moriri and its surroundings through your lens. The crystal-clear waters, framed by majestic mountains and vibrant skies, provide the perfect backdrop for stunning photographs.

If you love birds, Tso Moriri is a haven for you. During summer, it attracts numerous migratory bird species. As you explore the lakeside, keep an eye out for endangered and rare species like the black-necked crane, bar-headed goose, and Brahminy duck. Start leisurely walks along the shores of Tso Moriri, soaking in the serenity of the landscape. Traverse the rugged terrain, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and experience the tranquillity of this pristine Himalayan oasis.

Set up camp along the lakeshore and spend a night under the star-studded Ladakhi sky. Experience the magic of camping amidst nature, with the soothing sounds of the lake moving against the shore and the distant echoes of the Himalayan wilderness. Keep your binoculars handy and start a wildlife-spotting adventure around Tso Moriri.

Look out for elusive Himalayan wildlife such as the Tibetan wild ass (kiang), marmots, and ibexes that inhabit the surrounding hills and plains. With its location and minimal light pollution, Tso Moriri will offer you excellent stargazing opportunities.

Spend an evening marvelling at the vast expanse of the sky in the night, dotted with countless stars, planets, and constellations. Immerse yourself in the local culture by interacting with the nomadic communities that reside in the region. Learn about their traditional way of life, sample authentic Ladakhi cuisine, and gain insights into their age-old customs and traditions.

Start a trekking adventure to explore the rugged terrain and pristine wilderness surrounding Tso Moriri. Choose from various trekking routes that cater to different skill levels, ranging from gentle walks along the lakeshore to challenging high-altitude treks in the surrounding mountains. Whether you're a nature lover, adventure enthusiast, or cultural explorer, Tso Moriri offers many experiences that will leave you enchanted and inspired by the unparalleled beauty of Ladakh's Himalayan landscape.

Witness nature's gem

Nestled amidst the spectacular landscapes of Ladakh, Tso Moriri holds a rich history that dates back centuries. This breathtaking lake, also known as Lake Moriri or Mountain Lake, is situated at an altitude of over 4,500 metres above sea level, making it among the highest lakes in the world.

If you want to dive into the history of Tso Moriri, it is intertwined with the cultural heritage of the region, mainly the nomadic communities that have inhabited the area for generations. Traditionally, the lake served as a crucial water source for these nomadic tribes and their livestock during the summer months when they migrated to higher altitudes in search of grazing pastures.

Beyond its significance for local communities, Tso Moriri also played a strategic role in the ancient trade routes that traversed the Himalayas. Caravans travelling along the Silk Road often pass through the region, stopping at the lake to rest and refill their water supplies before continuing their journey.

Over the centuries, Tso Moriri has remained a symbol of resilience and natural beauty, captivating you with its serene waters and awe-inspiring surroundings. Today, it will attract you to marvel at its pristine beauty and immerse yourself in the tranquillity of the Ladakhi landscape.


Morir lake with Buddhist stupa in forefront at blue hour - long exposure -  Tso Moriri Wetland Conservation Reserve, Himalayan mountain lake, Korzok Changthang area, Leh, Ladakh

The nearby paradises

Surrounded by the majestic Himalayas, Tso Moriri in Leh, Ladakh, is not only a natural wonder but also a gateway to exploring the region's breathtaking landscapes and cultural attractions. Nearby, you can discover many captivating destinations offering a diverse range of experiences. One such attraction is the nearby Tso Kar Lake, a stunning saltwater lake about 50 kilometres from Tso Moriri.

With its serene ambience and panoramic views, Tso Kar will be paradise if you love nature and photography. Another must-visit destination near Tso Moriri is the Korzok Monastery, perched on a hill overlooking the lake. This Buddhist monastery dates back to the 17th century and will help you ideally experience the rich cultural heritage and stunning architecture.

You can explore the monastery's prayer halls, stupas, and colourful murals, gaining insights into the region's spiritual traditions. If you are interested in wildlife, the nearby Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary is a treasure trove of biodiversity. Spanning an area of over 4,000 square kilometres, this sanctuary is home to vast rare and endangered species, like the elusive snow leopard, Tibetan antelope (chiru), and Tibetan gazelle.

You can embark on wildlife safaris and guided nature walks to spot these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. Additionally, the picturesque village of Korzok offers you a glimpse into traditional Ladakhi life. Nestled on the banks of Tso Moriri, this charming village is home to cute locals, colourful houses, and vibrant markets selling handmade crafts and local produce.

You can immerse yourself in the local culture by participating in cultural events, interacting with villagers, and sampling authentic Ladakhi cuisine. Whether you're seeking adventure or cultural experiences or simply wish for a peaceful retreat amidst nature, the nearby attractions of Tso Moriri offer something for everyone to enjoy.