Hidden Gem Ladakh - Tso Moriri Lake Expedition
Escape the crowds and discover Ladakh's best-kept secret - Tso Moriri Lake. This 8-day expedition takes you through remote landscapes, nomadic villages, and to a lake even more pristine than Pangong.
Overview
While tourists flock to Pangong, the discerning traveler seeks Tso Moriri - a high-altitude lake that offers an even more authentic Ladakh experience. Located at 4,522 meters, this sacred lake is home to rare wildlife and offers unmatched serenity.
This expedition-style tour takes you through the remote Changthang plateau, home to the Changpa nomads and their Pashmina goats. Experience genuine Ladakhi hospitality in villages untouched by mass tourism.
The journey includes stunning viewpoints, ancient monasteries, and the chance to spot wildlife like the Tibetan wild ass (Kiang) and Black-necked cranes. This is Ladakh for the explorer who wants more than the usual.
Features
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Arrival in Leh - Gateway to Hidden Ladakh
Welcome to Leh! This expedition takes you to the lesser-known Tso Moriri Lake - a hidden gem. Transfer to hotel, complete rest for acclimatization. Evening briefing about the remote Changthang region. Early dinner.
Leh Sightseeing & Preparation Day
Half-day sightseeing to aid acclimatization. Visit Shanti Stupa and Leh Palace. Afternoon gear check and briefing. The Tso Moriri region is remote with no ATMs or shops, so stock up on essentials.
Leh to Tso Moriri - Into the Wilderness
Early start for the remote Tso Moriri Lake (4,522m). Drive through Upshi, Chumathang hot springs, and Mahe. The landscape becomes increasingly dramatic. Arrive at Korzok village by the lake. Overnight in basic but warm homestay.
Tso Moriri Exploration - The Sacred Lake
Full day at Tso Moriri - a high-altitude lake sacred to locals. Morning walk along the lakeshore. Visit the 300-year-old Korzok Monastery. Spot black-necked cranes, bar-headed geese, and Brahminy ducks. Watch the lake change colors throughout the day.
Tso Moriri to Pangong Lake - Lake to Lake
Journey between two legendary lakes. Drive through the raw Changthang plateau. Stop at Tso Kar (White Salt Lake) for photos. Continue to Pangong Tso. Camp by the famous lake.
Pangong Lake - The Famous Blue
Morning at leisure at Pangong. Watch the sunrise paint the lake in gold and blue. Explore different viewpoints. The lake stretches 134 km, two-thirds in Tibet. Afternoon photography session. Bonfire in the evening.
Pangong to Leh - Return Journey
Final sunrise at Pangong. Drive back to Leh via Chang La Pass. Arrive by afternoon. Rest and evening free for shopping in Leh market. Farewell dinner with expedition team.
Departure - End of Expedition
Breakfast and transfer to airport. You've experienced the hidden Ladakh that few tourists see. Take home memories of pristine lakes and raw landscapes.
✓ Inclusions
- •7 nights accommodation
- •All meals included
- •Private SUV with experienced driver
- •All permits (Tso Moriri special permit)
- •Camping equipment
- •Oxygen support
- •Local guide
- •All taxes
✗ Exclusions
- •Airfare
- •Personal expenses
- •Travel insurance
- •Tips
- •Sleeping bags (can be rented)
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Tso Moriri different from Pangong?▼
Tso Moriri is less touristy, at a higher altitude, and offers a more remote, untouched experience. It is sacred to locals and home to rare wildlife including black-necked cranes.
Why is this called an expedition?▼
The Tso Moriri region is remote with basic facilities, long driving distances, and fewer tourists. It requires good preparation and an adventurous spirit.
What are accommodations like at Tso Moriri?▼
Homestays with local families in Korzok village. Basic but warm, with home-cooked Ladakhi meals. It is an authentic experience, not luxury.
Is the road to Tso Moriri difficult?▼
The road is longer and rougher than to Pangong. We use sturdy vehicles and experienced drivers. The journey is part of the adventure.
Can we see both Tso Moriri and Pangong in one trip?▼
Yes! This expedition covers both lakes via Tso Kar. You experience the hidden Tso Moriri before ending at the famous Pangong.
What wildlife can we see at Tso Moriri?▼
Black-necked cranes in summer, Tibetan wild ass (kiang), Brahminy ducks, bar-headed geese, and occasionally Tibetan wolves in surrounding areas.
Per person on twin sharing
Customer Reviews
All Reviews (10)
This was my third Ladakh trip but first to Tso Moriri. Why did I wait so long? It's even better than Pangong!
The sunrise at Tso Moriri with snow-capped peaks reflected in the water - I still can't believe such places exist in India!
For travelers who want authentic Ladakh, skip the crowded spots and come here. The Changthang plateau is otherworldly!
Beautiful offbeat experience but be prepared for basic facilities. The isolation and peace are worth any discomfort.
Tso Moriri is the real hidden gem of Ladakh! Way more peaceful than Pangong with hardly any tourists. The nomad village visit was eye-opening.
Coming from crowded cities, Tso Moriri felt like another planet. The silence, the space, the sky - therapeutic!
The Changpa nomad hospitality was heartwarming. Their simple life is so inspiring. This trip changed my perspective.
This expedition felt like a real adventure. Remote camping, wildlife spotting, meeting nomads - this is what travel should be.
Great for experienced travelers who don't mind rustic conditions. The remoteness is both challenging and rewarding.
Saw Tibetan wild ass and Black-necked cranes! Wildlife lovers, this is YOUR trip. Tso Moriri is a birder's paradise.