Lakes are those which soothes and calms one mind just like the calm water in them and the beauty around fills the viewer with energy Tso Moriri Lake is one such lake. Tso Moriri Lake spread over a large area of more than 33,000 hectors at a height of about 4000 above sea level this lake is of at least 29 km in length and 8 km in width. Surrounded by astounding and huge mountains makes it a sight for one’s visit even from places which are far away from the Rupshu Valley which is a valley in the Changthang region of Ladakh which is now a Union Territory of India and the Lake is situated at a distance of about 240 km from Leh.
The huge widespread of the Tso Moriri Lake at an altitude of 4000 meters from the sea level gives it the title of being the largest lake at such altitude in the entire country India. This majestic beauty doesn’t only attracts the attention of human beings but also attracts a large number of wildlife including migratory birds, marmots and many a time the Tibetan wolves. Well known with many names or titles like Tso Moriri Lake, Lake Moriri or Mountain Lake and it is a part of the Ramsar sites wetland reservoir gives it the title Tso Moriri Conservation Reserve. Being near the Actual Line of Control makes this region to be under the watch of the Indian Army and one requires a permit to visit Tso Moriri.
Accommodation at Tso Moriri Lake
There are tents, guest houses, and homesteads available near the Tso Moriri. People can opt for any of them as per there requirements. These accommodations are equipped with basic amenities such as electricity, hot running water, western toilets, and medical aids. The camps have attached toilets as well. The food options available here are very limited.
Things to Do at Tso Moriri Lake
Tso Moriri Lake is one of the most stunning lakes of Ladakh. People can spend some time in seclusion and enjoy some of the quality time away from the hustle-bustle of city life. Enjoy photography here and glare at the stunning nature during the sunrise and sunset.
Important Information about Tso Kar Lake
Tso Moriri Lake is located at a high altitude and the air becomes thin at such a high altitude which causes the Altitude Mountain Sickness (AMS). People should carry their medical kit in case of an emergency. The campsites provide the basic medical facilities while the nearest hospital is located in Leh.
Mobile network connectivity is very low in the Leh Ladakh region. Only postpaid BSNL and Airtel network works in Leh. Prepaid connections do not work in the Ladakh region due to security reasons. The network connectivity at Tso Moriri is not good. Only the BSNL network might work.
The ATM services are very limited in the region. ATMs are available only in Leh and people should carry a good amount of cash to avoid unnecessary situations. The shops and camps accept the cash payment here. No debit card payment or online transaction possible here due to the network services.
Karu Petrol Pump is the only petrol pump situated near Tso Moriri Lake. Carry enough fuel with yourself so you will not face any problem.
Permit for Tso Moriri Lake
Inner Line Permit is a must to visit here. The tourists who do not belong to Jammu and Kashmir require to obtain the Inner Line Permit from the DC Office Leh and without them, they are not allowed to visit the lake. You can fill the online form and get them stamped at the DC Office or fill the offline form directly from the DC Office Leh.
How to reach Tso Moriri
The general way to reach such faraway places is to reach them by road which one needs to take at one point but can reduce the distance one will require to reach there distance by other means of transports.
How to reach the Lake via road
One can reach the lake via road from Leh which is at a distance of about 240 km and it takes about 7-8 hours minimum and may depending upon the broken one takes between the route and reaching Leh is way easier as it is connected to various parts of the country via highways and other means of transport.
How to reach the Lake via rail
The nearest railway station is Srinagar Railway station at a distance of about 600 km and the railway station is well connected to various other cities of the country via the railway line.
How to reach the Lake via air
The nearest airport is Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport, Leh and is connected to various other airports of the country connecting major parts via air.
Best time to visit Tso Moriri
The best time to visit Tso Moriri Lake is during the months of May, June, July, and August during which the lake is not frozen and the temperature is not cold. While during the months from January to March the lake is frozen solid and it is difficult to reach as the roads connecting to this region are completely blocked by ice and hence close to none transport are available to reach the destination by the mids of April the temperature starts to rise and the ice starts to melt.
Places to visit near Tso Moriri
Tso Moriri Lake is situated near the Karzok and is surrounded by many famous places. The places to visit near the Tso Moriri Lake are Chumathang Hot Springs, Tso Kar, Nyoma, Hemis Monastery, etc.
