Tso Moriri Lake

Located in the Ladakh region of Jammu and Kashmir, the lake is situated at an altitude of 4,595 meters above sea level. The Tso Moriri Lake is one of the highest altitude lakes in India, and it is also considered to be one of the most beautiful.

The lake is surrounded by the majestic mountains of the Himalayas, which add to the beauty of the place. The crystal-clear blue water of the lake reflects the sky and the surrounding mountains, creating a surreal and magical landscape that is simply breathtaking.

Geography of Tso Moriri Lake

Tso Moriri Lake is located in the Changthang Plateau, which is a high altitude cold desert. The lake is a part of the Tso Moriri Wetland Conservation Reserve, which is spread over an area of 1,230 square kilometers. The lake is fed by several streams and springs that flow from the surrounding mountains. The lake has no visible outlet, and the water gets evaporated, making it a closed basin lake.

The lake is surrounded by several high peaks, including Chamser Kangri, Lungser Kangri, and Mentok Kangri, which add to the beauty of the place. The Changthang Plateau is known for its high-altitude wildlife, and the Tso Moriri Lake is no exception.

Culture and Religion

The Tso Moriri Lake is considered sacred by the local communities, who are mostly Buddhists. The lake is believed to be the abode of the gods, and the locals believe that it has healing powers. The lake is also an important pilgrimage site, and many people come here to offer their prayers and seek blessings.

Wildlife: Tso Moriri Lake is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including the endangered Tibetan wild ass, known locally as the Kiang. Other animals that can be spotted here include Tibetan gazelle, Tibetan wolf, Himalayan marmot, and snow leopard. The lake is also a breeding ground for a variety of bird species, including the black-necked crane, bar-headed goose, and Brahminy duck.

Trekking: Tso Moriri Lake is a popular destination for trekking enthusiasts. The Changthang plateau offers several trekking routes, ranging from easy to challenging. The most popular route is the trek from Korzok village to the lake, which takes about 4-5 hours. The trek offers stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains.

Photography: Tso Moriri Lake is a photographer's paradise. The dramatic landscape, clear blue waters, and unique wildlife provide endless opportunities for capturing stunning photographs. The best time to visit for photography is during the months of May to September when the weather is clear and the lake is calm.

Stargazing: Tso Moriri Lake is located in a remote region with minimal light pollution, making it an ideal destination for stargazing. The night sky is crystal clear, and the stars appear brighter and more vibrant than in the cities. It is a surreal experience to watch the Milky Way and other constellations from the shores of the lake.

The best time to visit Tso Moriri Lake in Ladakh, India is during the summer months from May to September. During this time, the weather is pleasant and the temperatures are mild, with the average temperature ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F) during the day and dropping to 5°C to 10°C (41°F to 50°F) at night.

In the winter months from November to March, the lake freezes over and the temperature drops to as low as -20°C (-4°F), making it difficult to access and explore. Additionally, heavy snowfall during this time can lead to road closures and transport disruptions.