Tso Moriri which literally means ‘the mountain lake’ is a lake in Ladakh. It is around 225 kms from Leh. The lake lies in the Rupshu valley with mountain peaks all around it. The region is 4595 meters above sea level. It is India’s largest high-altitude lake. The valley has a diverse wildlife including endangered species like snow leopard. The area is inhabited by Changpas, the nomadic shepherds. It is also home to the Karzok monastery which is believed to be 350 years old and one of the oldest settlements in the world. The lake is formed by the snow accumulated in the region which melts in the summer. Trekkers love this place as the valley provides an opportunity for a nice trekking.
Ladakh has a cold climate due to its altitude. Due to its dry weather conditions and the cool weather it is called a Cold Desert. The air is rarified and so some people may experience breathing problems. The summer temperature ranges from 8oC to 27oC. The minimum temperature in summer sometimes may go as low as -3oC. The winter is very cold. The range of temperature in winters is -20oC to -15oC. The lake is frozen in the winter. There is snowfall by late September. It is a must to rest on the day of arrival to Ladakh region to acclimatize with the environment here.
The best time to visit Tso Moriri is from June to September when there is water in the lake. It is advisable to carry thick woolen clothes, wind cheaters, sun glasses, sturdy shoes, caps and sun screen. The skin needs to be well protected against the harsh climate.
There are no ATMs in Tso Moriri. But bank branches and ATMs are there in the city of Leh. It is best to carry cash to this place. There may not be any money exchangers here so carry Indian currency only.
No permit is required for Indian nationals in Ladakh. For foreign tourists, registration is done at the airport or at Drass, Rumste and Sechru if they travel by road to Ladakh. Permit to visit Tso Moriri is required. It can be obtained from the District Magistrate of Leh or from travel agents in Leh.
Leh airport is the nearest airport to Tso Moriri. It is at a distance of 225 km from Tso Moriri. There are flights to Delhi, Jammu and Srinagar. The flights are operated by Indian Airlines, Jet and Deccan. There may not be daily flights. Due to bad weather there may be delay or cancellation flights and that has to be taken into consideration when the trip is planned.
Leh Airport is 225km from Tso Moriri. The flights are mostly full in peak season and so it’s better to book in advance. From Leh you may take a jeep taxi to reach Tso Moriri. By road, you can reach Leh from Srinagar or Manali. The roads are open only from June to September and maybe blocked sometimes due to landslides or other conditions. The journey offers breathtaking views of the desert landscape.
• The cool blue water of the Tso Moriri Lake. • The rare variety of flora and fauna seen here. Black necked crane, bar headed goose, Ruddy Shelduck and the snow leopard can be seen here. • The 350 year old Karzok monastery.
Ladakhi food mainly consists of vegetables like Potato, Pumpkin, beans and beetroot along with meat like chicken and mutton. The flavouring is mild. ‘Thupka’, which is a thick soup and ‘Momos’ – dumplings stuffed with vegetables or meat should not be missed out. Tibetian food is also quite common all around Ladakh. The capital Leh has many restaurants serving Indian and continental food. Sweet shops and bakeries serve delicacies and bread. Himalaya Café, Shangrila and Budshah Inn are good restaurants in Leh.
Where To Stay:
There is no hotel in Tso Moriri. Tented accommodation is available in the Valley.
