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Tso Moriri Lake Overview

Located in Changthang Plateau in Ladakh in Northern India, Tso Moriri is also known as the Mountain Lake. The Lake covers an area of 120 KM sq. and is located at an elevation of 4522 metres. Famous for birdwatching and taking in the beauty of nature, the lake is the perfect place to spend some time away from the hustle and bustle of the city and include this famous attraction at its best with our Leh Ladakh tour packages.

Also known as the Mountain Lake, Tso Moriri is one of the two most popular lakes in the Ladakh region of the northern Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir. While Pangong Tso is the more popular out of the two, it’s Tso Moriri which manages to take the breath away of the visitors with its tranquil beauty.

Located at an altitude of a whopping 4595 metres above the sea level, Tso Moriri is a calm and serene high altitude lake in Changtang Wildlife Sanctuary. It runs up to 28 km in length and is 100 feet deep on average. Since it is located in a wetland reserve, you cannot pitch your tent in the area but can choose an accommodation in the camps around Tso Moriri lake, giving you a mesmerising view of the lake.

While the reflection of snow-clad mountains immersed in the pristine waters of the lake calm your soul, the exotic migratory birds flying above the majestic lake will make you fall in love with nature. The lake is surrounded by high mountains, making it a hidden gem in the cold desert land of Ladakh. It is an ideal travel destination for an offbeat traveller as well as those who wish to explore the untouched beauty of Ladakh.

Witness the changing hues of the lake and fall in love with nature all over again with a trip to Tso Moriri. Pack your bags, pick up your camera and set off on your trip to Leh Ladakh to live and capture.

Checkout & Book: Manali to Leh Bike Trip

Highlights

• Tso Moriri is India's highest and largest saltwater lake and lies at an elevation of 4,522 metres (14,836 feet)
• This beautiful, 19 KM long lake remains frozen between the months of January to March, when the climate is extremely cold.
• Anyone visiting the Tso Moriri Lake needs an Inner Line Permit which can be easily availed through the Leh Ladakh Administration's website.
• The relaxing reflections of the mountains and hills behind Tso Moriri will provide tranquillity to your soul while exotic migratory birds flying above the lake will give a divine sense of calmness.
• Wildlife such as Blue sheep, Ladakhi bharal, and Ibex may be seen in the Tso Moriri lake's environs.
• At a height of 4572 metres, the Korzok village, located about 3 kilometres from Tso Moriri Lake, is one of India's highest agricultural lands and permanent villages.

How To Reach

Route 1: Leh to Tso Moriri via Chumathang

The greatest reason the popularity of this route is owed to is its length. This is the shortest route to cover the journey between Leh and Tso Moriri. The total length of the route is somewhere between 220 km to 240 km. Since the road is in good condition, the journey can be covered in a duration of 6 to 7 hours. However, if you take too many halts for the sake of landscape photography, it may take longer than that.

After starting your journey on Manali – Leh Highway, you can take your first halt at Upshi and relish some snacks as the next place where food is available is away in Karzok. At the bifurcation at Upshi Market, take the left turn towards Mahe. Once you reach Mahe, head towards Karzok. Before reaching Karzok, you will come across some great vantage points, apt for landscape photography. A halt at Kiagar Tso is recommended as most travelers prefer to take a halt here. Resume your journey and soon you will come across another bifurcation. Do not take the tar road, rather keep going straight because that is the way to Karzok. That is where Tso Moriri is located.

The route map is given below:

Leh – Shey – Karu – Upshi – Kumdok – Kere – Chumathang – Mahe – Sumdo – Namashang La – Karzok

Route 2: Leh to Tso Moriri via Tso Kar and More Plains

If you opt for this route to reach Tso Moriri from Leh, you will have to cover some extra miles. The total distance of the route is approximately 260 km. The journey normally takes somewhere between 7 to 8 hours. But again, the duration of the journey depends upon how many halts you take and how long they are. Moreover, there is a probability that the condition of the road will be worse too.

However, the route is quite scenic with open landscapes and views of mighty Himalayan peaks covered in snow, so you will not regret taking this route. This route also lets you see Tso Kar. The initial part of the route is the same as Route 1 mentioned above. From there, you do not have to take the turn that leads to Chumathang, rather head towards Rumtse on Manali – Leh highway. After you leave Rumtse behind, the ascent to Tanglang La starts. Then you will proceed towards Deburring. You can take a short stop here to rest and to click some photographs, however, there is not much for a shelter.

As you ride further on your road trip to Leh – Manali Highway, you will see a road diverting to the left. If you are hungry or in need of some refreshment, there are a few options in the form of roadside dhabas here. Exit the Leh – Manali Highway here by taking the left road. The first lake that you will come across on this route is approximately 22 km ahead of this diversion. 

The route map is given below:

Leh – Shey – Karu – Upshi – Rumtse – Tanglang La – Debring – Tso Kar – Polo Kongka La – Puga – Sumdo – Namashang La – Karzok

Planning a Ladakh Trip from Kolkata, Checkout: Ladakh tour Package from Kolkata

Route 3: Leh to Tso Moriri via Pangong Tso and Chushul

If you are looking for some serious adventure, you may take this road. The route takes you to remote regions with hardly any travelers or locals in sight. Owing to the scenic vistas one gets to witness while traveling this route including the renowned Pangong Tso, it is considered one of the best routes to reach the breathtakingly beautiful lake, Tso Moriri despite being the road least traveled. The round journey starts from Leh and takes you to Tso Moriri via Pangong Tso and ends at Leh maybe 650 to 700 km. The distance between Leh to Pangong Tso is almost 160 k

There are various routes to cover this journey. The first stretch of the journey will take you to Pangong Tso from Leh. After Pangong Tso, you are supposed to head towards Chushul, which is a small village located on the border area. The distance between Spangmik to Chushul is almost 50 km, and since there is no metalled road, you will have to ride on a dirt track. You will have to produce your permits at Merak en route to Chushul.

Proceed towards Mahe located at a distance of 77 km from Chushul. You can take a halt here and then ride towards Karzok covering Sumdo and Namashang La en route. The distance between Mahe and Karzok is approximately 63 km.

A few things are to be kept in mind before making the trip. Firstly, the route is only open to Indians. So, if you are a foreign national, you cannot take this journey without a Protected Area Permit. Secondly, there are no fuel stations for long distances, so make sure you have plenty of spare fuel with you before you embark on the journey. 

The route map is given below:

Leh – Sakti – Chang La – Tangtse – Spangmik (Pangong Tso) – Man – Merak – Chushul – Tsaga La – Tsaga Village – Loma – Nyoma – Mahe – Sumdo – Karzok (Tso Moriri)

Suggested Read: 7 Day trip to Leh Ladakh

Best Time To Visit

Tso Moriri is located in the Changtang region of Jammu and Kashmir, which experiences freezing temperatures during the winter months. While the lake remains frozen between the months of November and April, the summer months are the best time to visit Tso Moriri to enjoy the beauty at its peak which is also the best time to visit Ladakh.

Altitude of Tso Moriri: Perched atop a whopping height of 4595 metres (15,075 feet) above the sea level, Tso Moriri is a high-altitude lake located in the northern Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir.

Distance from Leh to Tso Moriri: The distance between high-altitude Tso Moriri and Leh town is approximately 220 km, and the drive will take at least five hours in normal conditions.

Permits required to visit Tso Moriri: Since April 2017, the Indian government has made it mandatory for visitors (non-residents of Jammu and Kashmir) to procure Inner Line Permit for Leh Ladakh to visit the protected areas. The Inner Line Permit can be obtained online by visiting the official website and visiting the “Issue” option, followed by the “Domestic client” option on the website. The permit fee is INR 400 (environmental fees) per person, with an additional INR 20 as the Inner Line fee.

Other Essential Information

Other Essential Information

. Mobile connectivity

There is no mobile connectivity at Tso Moriri. The nearest mobile connectivity is available at Chumathang, which is located at a distance of 70 km from Tso Moriri. Enjoy your visit to the lake without getting interrupted by mobile phone notifications and immerse in its enchanting beauty. 

. Medical facilities

Tso moriri is a high altitude lake, and you must prepare yourself well to acclimatise with the thin air up there. While the nearest place with medical facilities/health centre will be an available Korzok Village, you may get the basic oxygen cylinders at the camps and hotels nearby the lake. 

. ATMs

You will not find any ATM near Tso Moriri lake. The wisest thing to do is to carry cash because there is no internet connectivity too at Tso Moriri, disabling the benefits of internet banking. 

. Petrol pumps

The nearest petrol pump from Tso Moriri is at Karu, which is located at a distance of 24 km. It is advisable to get your vehicle fuelled by Leh. In case you're exiting from Leh Manali Highway, you must ensure you have enough fuel to reach Tandi. 

. Food joints

The food joints and stalls are available in Korzok Village. However, you may also get food and authentic local cuisine at the camp and homestay you may choose near Tso Moriri for your accommodation. 

. Minimum duration for visiting Tso moriri

If you are visiting Tso Moriri, it is best if you reach there before evening and spend your night in one of the camps. While the nights are pitch dark, wake up to witness a beautiful sunrise the next morning and click pictures as the lake changes its hues. 

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Tso Moriri Lake FAQs

How do I get to Tso Moriri?

Tso Moriri is a high-altitude lake located in Leh region of Jammu and Kashmir. You can easily take a road trip to Ladakh or a flight to Leh and drive to Tso Moriri, which is at a distance of 220 km from Leh. Vehicles on rent and cabs are also available in Leh.

Should I halt for a night near Tso Moriri?

Being a wildlife reserve area, you cannot pitch your own tent near the lake. However, you can always book a camp/hotel opposite the lake for a night stay. Enjoy the morning views of the lake and wake up to a beautiful sunrise as nature displays its best hues in the morning.

Suggested Read: Here is a Delhi to Leh Ladakh Guide

What are the other names for Tso Moriri?

Tso Moriri is a sacred lake for locals. It is also known as Lake Moriri or Mountain Lake by locals as well as visitors thronging the place.

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Who protects the lake and the surrounding areas?

The Tso Moriri and its surrounding regions have been declared as a wetland conservation reserve. The State Department of Wildlife has, besides setting up a check-post near Mahe Bridge, taken initiatives to educate the locals on the conservation and set up an information desk for the tourists. While it is illegal to shoot the wildlife here, one also needs an Inner Line Permit to visit the lake.

Planning a Honeymoon trip, Checkout: Ladakh Honeymoon Package from Delhi

How high is the Tso Moriri Lake?

Tso Moriri is a high-altitude lake in the Rupshu district of Jammu and Kashmir. The lake is situated at an altitude of a whopping 4595 (over 15000 feet), surrounded by high mountains on all its sides

What is the colour of Tso Moriri?

The water in the lake is crystal clear, allowing it to embrace the colour of the sky and the background. While the lake waters change its hues with the changing colours of the sky, the lake also reflects the imagery of the mountains in the background which surround the lake on all sides, making it majestic sight.

Click Here to Book: Manali to Leh Bike Trip Package from Delhi

What are the activities to do near Tso Moriri?

The Tso Moriri is a high-altitude lake, and photography lovers will have the frames of their lifetime as they click the majestic lake with the firm mountains in the background. There is a lot in store for wildlife enthusiasts too as the lake is a breeding ground for migratory birds. Book your date with exotic wildlife and feel close to nature by visiting Tso Moriri.

What are the other attractions near Tso Moriri?

On your visit to Tso Moriri, visit nearby attractions like Tso Moriri viewpoint for the best view of the lake, Tso Moriri wetland reserve, Korzok Monastery which is located in Korzok Village and Tsokar Lake, which is located at a distance of 85 km.

Suggested Read: Ladakh Tour Package

Should I skip Tso Moriri if I am visiting Pangong Tso?

It depends on the time you have at your hand and your preferences as a traveler. While the Pangong Tso is more popular and visited a lot by tourists, the Tso Moriri is a remote lake that is less visited, serene and calm owing to its location. If you are an offbeat traveler and would like to set off on a journey of self-discovery far from people, a visit to the lake is a must. 

Suggested Read: Here is a Guide to  Srinagar to Leh Road Trip

Tso Moriri Lake Reviews

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Urvashi Gupta
Reviewed: 06 Aug 2022
5.0/5
Best solo travelling experience ever ❤️
Urvashi Gupta
Urvashi Gupta
Urvashi Gupta
Urvashi Gupta
Urvashi Gupta
Urvashi Gupta
(36+)View All
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Rahul Sahu
Reviewed: 26 Jun 2022
4.0/5
When it comes to experiencing adventure, nothing can beat the rough trails and the magnificent landscapes of Leh Ladakh. This is a paradise for every adventure junkie who wants to conquer the heights of the Khardung La Pass or just escape from the hustle-bustle of the city life.
Rahul  Sahu
Rahul  Sahu
Rahul  Sahu
Rahul  Sahu
Rahul  Sahu
Rahul  Sahu
(34+)View All
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Prof Mohammad Shahabuddin
Reviewed: 26 Aug 2022
5.0/5
A trip to Ladakh was in my bucket list for long and I finally managed to make it in August 2022. This is not a place one can just decide and go; we needed months of preparations. Securing Protected Area Permit from the Indian Home Ministry was also a bit of work. Thrillophilia offered excellent supp... Read More
Prof Mohammad Shahabuddin
Prof Mohammad Shahabuddin
Prof Mohammad Shahabuddin
Prof Mohammad Shahabuddin
Prof Mohammad Shahabuddin
Prof Mohammad Shahabuddin
(29+)View All
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Preethu Suresh
Reviewed: 15 Sep 2022
5.0/5
The driver was very polite and the stays were excellent and hygienic . We would like to book more trip in thrillophilia 
Preethu   Suresh
Preethu   Suresh
Preethu   Suresh
Preethu   Suresh
Preethu   Suresh
Preethu   Suresh
(29+)View All
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Parth
Reviewed: 02 Jun 2023
5.0/5
The trip was amazing. eternity was very well managed. Driver, hotel staff and other peoples are good hearted and very kind. Every places in the list are covered. Hotel rooms and tents are clean and hygienic. If you had a time you can ask driver to cover it, they can manage with extra fair also. plea... Read More
Parth .
Parth .
Parth .
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Parth .
(27+)View All
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Abhishek Ghosh
Reviewed: 16 Aug 2022
4.0/5
Overall tour experience was good, only at the time of travelling to Nubra vehicle came at 12 pm instead of 9.30 pm. Other than this everything was really good. I stayed at Himalayan heritage hotel at Leh and I recommended this hotel to everyone because property is excellent and all the hotel staffs ... Read More
Abhishek Ghosh
Abhishek Ghosh
Abhishek Ghosh
Abhishek Ghosh
Abhishek Ghosh
Abhishek Ghosh
(24+)View All

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