Tso Moriri Lake

Picturesquely situated in secluded, breathtakingly beautiful Rupshu Valley, the high-altitude Tso Moriri Lake is fewer than 155 miles (250 kilometers) southeast of Leh. Travelers can only visit with a permit. Most visit the lake with an organized tour from Leh, which usually includes camping equipment and a cook.

How to Get There
The best way to reach Tso Moriri Lake without an organized tour is by hiring a private jeep from Leh. During the summer there is occasional bus service from Leh.

How to Get Around
By foot.

Attractions
The saltwater Tso Moriri Lake, which is about 13,000 feet (4,000 meters) above sea level, is approximately 18 miles (29 kilometers) long and up to five miles (eight kilometers) wide. Flanked by lofty mountains, this serene lake and the area around it attract a range of wildlife, including migratory birds, marmots, wild asses, and (rarely spotted) Tibetan wolves. Nomadic herders of goats, yaks, and cows live in the lake's vicinity.

Places to Stay and Eat
None around the lake itself. However, tents can be pitched in certain areas; you'll need to bring your own food provisions.

The only settlement in the general area, at Korzok, has one accommodation option: the rustic Nomadic Life Camp, which offers comfortable accommodations in tents. You can pitch your own or opt for one of the tents that are already set up here in the summer; these cost around $20 (the charge for pitching your own tent is less than $2). Meals are available in the tented dining hall. Korzok.

General Tips
The area around Tso Moriri Lake has suffered environmental degradation due to increasing tourism. To help save the delicate ecosystem, always choose a tour operator that is environmentally conscious (removes all trash, sticks to designated trails) and makes the most minimal impact when visiting.

For More Information
Leh Tourist Office Main Bazaar Road, Leh.; +91 (0)1982 253462.
Tourist Reception Center, Leh Around two miles (three kilometers) south of the town center on Airport Road; tel. +91 (0)1982 252094 or +91 (0)1982 252297.