How to Get There

Tso Moriri is located in the Changthang region, about 220 km southeast of Leh. The most common route is: Leh → Upshi → Chumathang → Mahe → Sumdo → Karzok (Tso Moriri).

• Drive time: 7–8 hours, depending on road conditions.

• Roads are motorable from May to October.

• Inner Line Permit (ILP) is required for both Indian and foreign tourists.

• Foreigners are allowed to visit and stay overnight in Karzok, but cannot travel beyond without special permission.

What to Expect

Tso Moriri sits at an altitude of 4,522 m and stretches about 28 km long, making it one of the largest high-altitude lakes entirely within India. The lake’s deep blue water, surrounding brown mountains, and lack of commercial activity give it a remote, untouched feel. The main settlement is Karzok village, where you’ll find basic guesthouses, homestays, and eco-camps. The lake is protected as a wetland reserve, and home to rare migratory birds, kiangs (wild asses), marmots, and occasional Himalayan wolves.

Camping at Tso Moriri

• Camping is allowed near Karzok, but not right on the lake shore.

• A few eco camps operate in summer with tents, bedding, and meals.

• Wild camping is possible further from the village, but come fully self-sufficient.

• Nights are extremely cold, even in summer—bring full winter gear.

For the Curious

• "Tso Moriri" means "Mountain Lake" in Ladakhi.

• The lake is part of the Tso Moriri Wetland Conservation Reserve—a Ramsar Site.

• A 17th-century monastery sits above Karzok village, still active today.

• Once a trade route hub with Tibet, the region now supports Changpa nomads and pashmina goat herding.

Good to Know

• No entry fee, but permits are checked at Mahe and Sumdo.

• No fuel stations beyond Upshi—carry extra fuel.

• No mobile signal (except sometimes BSNL at Karzok).

• Best time to visit: June to September. Roads may close in winter.

• Combine with Tso Kar, Puga Valley, or Hanle for a remote Changthang loop