Tso Moriri Lake
The Lap of Mt. Mentok

Introduction

Popularly known as the 'Mountain Lake', Tso Moriri Ladakh is an imposing site amidst the mountain ranges. Due to its serenity, people choose to come here for picnic and relaxation. The lake measures around 28 km long from north to south and 4-6 km wide and around 100 feet deep. Maximum depth of Tso Moriri Lake can be measured as 248 feet. Tso Moriri Lake is enveloped by barren hills, along with the backdrop of snow-capped mountains. The deep blue water of the lake is crystal clear. Since the lake has no outlet, the waters are frequently brackish. Tso Moriri Lake once served as a popular source of salt.

This beautiful valley is also inhabited by the population of 'Changpas' who are nomadic shepherds. The region has rich wildlife and you can spot the wild ass, geese, black-necked cranes during the summers. This calm lake is nestled amidst the peaks, elevating over 20,000 feet, completely closing the lake from the outside world.

Location

Tso Moriri Lake lies in amidst the elevated district of Rupshu. The Rupshu valley locates south east of Ladakh on the road. From Manali to Leh, it is at an altitude ranging from 16,500 feet. The drive from Leh to Rupshu can be covered in around 9 hours.

Things to Do at Tso Moriri

Visit the Korzok Monastery

Amid an ancient village, on the western bank of the Tso Moriri Lake, Korzok is a Tibetan of Drupka Lineage. More than four centuries old, it attracts a huge number of Buddhist pilgrims and tourists. The monastery houses the statue of Shakyamuni Buddha and has beautiful paintings (thangkas). Korzok Monastery is the home of more than 70 monks. The two day long Korzok Gustor festival symbolizes the victory of good over evil. It is also homage to assassination of traitor Tibetan king by a Buddhist Monk. Storma or Black Hat dance ceremony is a popular event here.

Do Bird Watching

Tso Moriri is a bird watcher?s paradise and it serves as a breeding point for more than 34 species of birds. Almost 14 species of water birds like Black-necked Cranes endangered, Black-necked Grebe Podiceps nigricollis, Brown-headed Gulls etc. are also found here. It is a great point for photography.

Wildlife that surround Tso Moriri

Area surrounding the lake has ample amount of wildlife including the famous Ladakhi Bharal. Other animals that can be spotted here are Blue Sheep, Himalayan mountain goat, snow leopard, lynx and grey wolves.

Where to Stay

Tented accommodations are available near Tso Moriri alongwith a small PWD guest house.

Best Time to Visit

Tso Moriri gets frozen during winters, hence between May to September is the best time to visit.

How to Reach

Tso Moriri Lake is 240 kilometers to the southeastern part of Leh. It can be reached by jeep from the Pangong Lake via remote Changtang region.
Extra fuel should be carried for the journey as no petrol pump is available nearby.