Tso Kar Lake is a brackish saltwater lake which is located in the Rapshu Valley of Changthang region of Ladakh. This is one of the frequented lakes of Ladakh which is being thrived by tourists from all over the world. Tso Kar is a high altitude lake and perched at an altitude of 15280 ft. above the mean sea level. The lake is situated at about 250 km southeast of Leh. Tso Kar Lake is one of the three most beautiful and calm lakes of Ladakh.
Tso Kar Ladakh is one of the most serene lakes of the Ladakh region. This saltwater lake has white salt deposits all around so it is also known as ‘White Lake’. People can enjoy bird watching, and nature walking here. Enjoy the sunrise and sunset amidst the serene environment with the backdrop of the majestic snow-clad Himalayas. The area is dotted with the surrounding wildlife and breathtaking birdlife. But the main attraction among the birdlife at Tso Kar is black-necked cranes. These birds make an incredible view when they take off over the green, picturesque plains on the background of snow-covered mountains.
This high altitude lake experiences extreme winters and the roads get blocked during the winter season due to the heavy snowfall. People can visit here during the summer season and enjoy the enchanting beauty of the region.
Accommodation at Tso Kar Lake
Tso Kar Lake accommodation facilities comprises of Luxury tents. It is the only accommodation which people can find here. They offer a comfortable stay near the lake. These luxury tents are equipped with basic amenities such as electricity, hot running water, western toilets, and medical aids. Apart from the tents, there is no other accommodation available near the Tso Kar Lake. The food options at Tso Lake are limited and do not carry any intense food culture or local preparation. Might be basic food at the camps or tents set up here.
Things to Do at Tso Kar Lake
Tso Kar is one of the most beautiful lakes of Ladakh and you can glare at the enchanting beauty of the lake. Spend some quality time with your loved ones in peace and serenity. Enjoy the sunset and sunrise, as these are some of the majestic moments which one cannot get once they will be back in their regular lives. Enjoy nature at its best with the birds watching, and enjoy photography.
Important Information about Tso Kar Lake
- Tso Kar Lake is perched at a high altitude and the air becomes thin at such a high altitude. People should carry their own medical kit in case of an emergency. The campsites provide the basic medical facilities while the nearest hospital is located in Leh which is very far.
- In the Leh Ladakh region, only postpaid BSNL and Airtel network works. The prepaid connection does not work here due to security reasons. So carry one of them however at Tso Kar the network connectivity is not very good.
- It is good to carry a good amount of cash as there is no ATM in the region. ATM facilities are mainly available in Leh. There is no good mobile connectivity and no internet, so Debit card services are also not available in this region.
- Karu Petrol Pump is the only petrol pump situated near Tso Kar Lake. Carry enough fuel with yourself so you will not face any problem.
Permit for Tso Kar Lake
An Inner Line Permit is required to visit Tso Kar Lake. The tourists can get the permit from the DC office, Leh. The Inner Permit or ILP is valid for three weeks for Indians and one week for foreigners. People can apply for Inner Line Permit online and then get the stamps done from the DC office or they can directly apply for the permit by offline mode in DC Office.
How to reach Tso Kar Lake from Leh
Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport in Leh is the nearest airport from the Tso Kar Lake which is situated at a distance of 155 km. You can reach Tso Kar Lake from your bike or by hiring a taxi. While coming from Manali, the lake is situated 31 km west of the national highway. Tourists can hire a taxi from Leh.
Best time to visit Tso Kar Lake
The best time to visit Tso Kar Lake is during the summer season in the months of June to August when the weather remains comfortable for the sightseeing tour. The lake is perched at a high altitude and the temperature reached up to -40 degrees Celsius during the winter season. The roads get blocked due to the heavy snowfall. During the summer season, the temperature rises to 30 degrees Celsius at Tso Kar Lake which is quite comfortable for the excursion.
Places to visit near Tso Kar Lake
Tso Kar Lake is situated in the Ladakh region and is being thrived by the tourist. The famous places to visit near Tso Kar Lake is Chumathang Hot Spring, Karzok, Tso Moriri, Nyoma, Hemis Monastery, etc.
