Tso Moriri

Resting in the high altitude Changthang Plateau at a dizzying elevation of 14,836 feet (4,522 meters) roughly 220 km southeast of Leh, Tso Moriri (officially known as Mountain Lake) is one of the most serene and ecologically vital alpine lakes in Jammu And Kashmir. Measuring 19 km in length and up to 3 km in width, this protected Ramsar wetland in Leh Ladakh is fed by snowmelt springs and mountain streams surrounded by glaciated peaks exceeding 20,000 feet.

Truth is, unlike the more commercialized shoreline of Pangong Lake, Tso Moriri offers deep wilderness solitude. The lake is entirely situated within Indian territory, bounded by the Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary where nomadic Changpa pastoralists graze their precious Pashmina goats (Changthangi goats) across wild alpine meadows.

The only permanent human settlement along the shore is the ancient village of Korzok, situated on the western bank at 14,900 feet. The historic 300 year old Korzok Monastery (belonging to the Drukpa Kagyu lineage) stands proudly on a hill slope overlooking the turquoise and indigo lake waters. Visiting Tso Moriri pairs naturally with overland circuits connecting Pangong Lake and Nubra Valley.

Avian Biodiversity and Changthang Wildlife

Tso Moriri is an internationally recognized biodiversity sanctuary and the only major breeding ground in India for the rare and vulnerable Black necked Crane (Grus nigricollis). The brackish lake shores and adjoining marshy wetlands support significant populations of Bar headed Geese, Great Crested Grebes, Brown headed Gulls, and Brahminy ducks.

Observant wildlife enthusiasts traveling along the lakeside tracks can spot the Tibetan Wild Ass (Kiang) galloping across open plains, Himalayan marmots sunning on boulders, Bharal (blue sheep), and the elusive Snow Leopard roaming high scree ridges before visiting Shey Monastery.

Korzok Village and the Nomadic Changpa Life

Korzok is among the highest continuously inhabited villages in the world where high altitude barley is cultivated. Living here gives travelers authentic insights into the traditional lifestyle of Changpa nomads who live in yak wool tents (Rebo) and harvest world famous ultra fine Pashmina (Cashmere) wool.

The annual Korzok Gustor festival held in July brings nomadic families from across the Changthang wilderness to the monastery courtyard to witness sacred masked cham dances and receive monastic blessings before traveling back toward Hall of Fame.

Route Options, Permits, and Acclimatization Guidelines

Travelers require a valid Ladakh Inner Line Permit (ILP) specifying Tso Moriri / Korzok. Accommodations at Korzok consist of seasonal glamping tented camps, eco cottages, and cozy family homestays providing hot local meals and warm blankets.

Mind you, due to the extreme altitude of nearly 15,000 feet, nighttime temperatures drop below freezing even in mid summer. Do not attempt traveling to Tso Moriri directly on your first or second day in Ladakh; ensure at least three full days of proper acclimatization in Leh, Nubra, or Pangong before arriving here. Pair your trip with Shanti Stupa.