Tso Moriri lake in Changthang region of Ladakh is one of the most beautiful, calm, and sacred (for Ladakhis) high altitude lakes in India. It is the largest high altitude lake in India that is entirely in Indian territory. This beautiful blue pallet lake is about 7 km wide at its broadest point and about 19 km long.
Being part of the wetland reserve under the Ramsar site, it is known as Tsomoriri Wetland Conservation Reserve. You cannot pitch any camps near Tso Moriri or construct any stay option near the banks of the lake. It is the highest Ramsar site in the world. The place is full of flora and fauna is found in the region.
Since it is near to the Line of Actual Control, you need to get Inner Line Permit to visit Tso Moriri Lake, both as an Indian as well as a foreigner.
Let's quickly dive into the details:
Tso Moriri Lake Leh Ladakh
The beautiful multi-shades of blues offered by this lake along with a picturesque landscape around give this place an extremely romantic and breathtaking feel. However, in reality, the place is harsh and difficult to survive especially in winters.
There is only a couple of cemented accommodation available around the lake in the form of homestays and the facilities like electricity, medical aid, hot running water, western toilets, etc. are luxury in itself. The lack of oxygen makes survival difficult if your body is not properly acclimatized to its high altitude. Hence, one needs to plan his/her journey extremely carefully to avoid acute mountain sickness.
So, even though you might feel tempted to include Tso Moriri in your trip to Leh Ladakh, it is important to plan your trip to this high altitude place properly. This travel guide will help you with it.
Location
Tso Moriri is located about 240 KMs from Leh town of Ladakh district in Jammu & Kashmir. You cannot make a day trip from Leh to Tso Moriri lake as it will be very hectic and not worth it. Hence, you should plan for a two day trip to Tso Moriri from Leh.
Altitude
Tso Moriri lake is one of the high altitudes lakes of India at a staggering altitude of 4595 Meters or 15075 Feet, yes higher than Pangong Tso.
Best Time to Visit Tso Moriri Lake
In general, the best time to travel to Tso Moriri lake is in the summer months when the Ladakh peak season is in full flow.
Similar to what we learned about the best time to travel to Leh Ladakh, in the months of January to March, lake Tso Moriri remains mostly frozen, extremely cold conditions with no options to stay around the lake. Apart from some homestays at Korzok, Chumathang is the next best bet to stay nearby this lake.
In April, the lake starts to melt and starts transforming into the beautiful palette of multi shades of blue colors. Then, May to August is the peak tourist season but as compared to Pangong Tso it gets fewer tourists.
Tso Moriri in September and October
The tourists start to reside as cold starts to set in, and accommodation tents pack up, which are near to the lake. IMO, this is by far the best time to visit Tso Moriri and see the full glory of beautiful shades of blue color in the lake. The colors are purely magical at this time of the year, and with fewer tourists comparatively, you get better deals and enjoy more.
Visiting Tso Moriri in Winter
After mid-October up to December, all the accommodation packs up, and the only nearest place you can stay is either in some homestay with basic facilities to fight the harsh cold temperature at Tso Moriri. You can also find some homestays in Nyoma village and a guest house in Chumathang. Both Nyoma and Chumathang are much warmer than Tso Moriri lake in winter months.
Nyoma has few guesthouses having slightly better facilities to fight the cold and provide comfort in winter months than the ones in Korzok. Similarly, Chumathang has Hot Spring Guest House, and due to the presence of hot springs, Chumathang itself is quite warm and lower in altitude.
If the sun is shining and you do not mind the hard cold winters, then you can make the day trip to Tso Moriri from Chumathang or Nyoma to see magical shades of blue color at this lake. However, do not forget to check the weather conditions before leaving Leh.
How to Reach Tso Moriri from Leh
You can reach Tso Moriri from Leh by road via Upshi – Chumathang – Mahe route. Tso Moriri Lake is also connected from Pangong lake directly by Chusul – Tsaga La – Loma – Mahe route.
You can also travel to Tso Moriri lake from Manali Leh Highway via Tso Kar – Puga – Sumdo route. The diversion point to Tso Moriri from Manali Leh Highway is Debring just before Tanglang La pass. However, this route is mostly used to exit from Tso Moriri towards Manali rather than the opposite.
You can read the reasons on not to visit Tso Moriri lake from when coming from Manali to Leh.
Let us look at the different routes that you can use to travel to Pangong Tso from Leh town or Nubra Valley which will help you in planning your trip to it.
Route from Leh to Tso Moriri Lake
This is the most general route to reach Tso Moriri from Leh. You can reach in about 7 – 8 Hrs depending upon the number of breaks you take in between the journey. The route along with the distance between the subsequent places is as follows:
Leh – Karu (36 KMs) – Upshi (13 KMs) – Kumdok (19 KMs) – Kere (53 KMs) – Chumathang (34 KMs) – Mahe (22 KMs) – Sumdo (10 KMs) – Korzok or Tso Moriri(53 KMs) = 240 KMs
You can cover Thicksey, Hemis, and Shey monasteries while going through this route if you haven’t covered them earlier while going to Pangong Tso. This route provides the best road conditions for all other routes. So, if you are one of those who prefer relaxing vacation and do not want to rush through places then, I will suggest making a two day trip to Tso Moriri lake via this route from Leh.
Of course, I assume your body has been acclimatized properly by staying for a couple of nights in Leh and spending a night or two in Nubra Valley as well before attempting to sleep near Tso Moriri or Korzok. If you are short on time, then you can also exit towards Manali from Manali – Leh Highway from Tso Moriri via this route only, but you need to ensure that you have enough fuel to cover about 550 km without any fuel pump.
Route from Pangong Tso Lake to Tso Moriri Lake
There exist a direct and an indirect route between Tso Moriri and Pangong Tso as well and in most general cases, you will always be doing it from direct route of Pangong Tso to Tso Moriri because you can exit Ladakh from Tso Moriri towards Manali – Leh Highway after visiting Tso Moriri without coming back towards Leh and secondly, Tso Moriri is higher than Pangong Tso so as per acclimatization schedule you should stay near Pangong Tso before spending night at Tso Moriri.
Pangong Tso Lake to Tso Moriri Lake via Changthang (Merak – Chusul – Nyoma)
You can go to Tso Moriri from Pangong Tso directly via the remote and ever beautiful Changthang region. The drive between Pangong Tso and Tso Moriri is one of the most beautiful drives in the whole Ladakh region. Since 2019, foreigners are now allowed to go beyond Man – Merak Villages as DC office is issuing the permits to them for this route.
Hence, they need to follow the indirect, slightly longer route to Tso Moriri from Pangong Tso. A special permit to cross Chusul is required from Leh DC office in order to travel on this route.
The route along with the distance between the subsequent places is as follows:
Spangmik (Pangong Tso) – Man (9 KMs) – Merak (12 KMs)– Kakstet (4 KMs) – Chusul (24 KMs) – Tsaga La (33 KMs) – Tsaga Village (20 KMs) – Loma (23 KMs) – Nyoma (22 KMs) – Mahe (25 KMs) – Sumdo (10 KMs) – Namashang La – Tso Moriri / Korzok (53 KMs) = 235 KMs
You need to make sure you carry fuel for about 550 – 600 KMs because you will be covering Leh – Pangong Tso – Nyoma – Loma – Tso Moriri – Leh without any other petrol pump. And if you want to exit Ladakh through Manali – Leh Highway from Tso Moriri then also carry petrol/diesel for about 650 – 700 KMs as the next petrol pump will be available at Tandi.
Otherwise, you need to come back to Karu or Upshi, refill and move back again towards Manali – Leh Highway.
Pangong Lake to Tso Moriri Lake via Chumathang
The indirect route that goes from Chumathang is the longer one, where you need to go back from Pangong Tso to Leh up to Karu and from there you can take a left towards Upshi – Chumathang – Korzok to reach Tso Moriri.
This route can be followed by foreign tourists who are not allowed the permit for Changthang (Man – Merak – Chusul, etc.) region if they do not want to go back to Leh. But, IMO one must go back to Leh from Pangong Tso, refresh themselves and start towards Tso Moriri next morning instead of the very long day via Chumathang.
You need to mention both Tso Moriri and Pangong Tso on your permit form in order to undertake this route. The route along with the distance between the subsequent places is as follows:
Spangmik – Lukung (16 KMs) – Tangtse (34 KMs) – Durbuk (9 KMs) – Chang La (32 KMs) – Sakti (34 KMs) – Karu (10 KMs) – Upshi (13 KMs) – Kumdok (19 KMs) – Kere (53 KMs) – Chumathang (34 KMs) – Mahe (22 KMs) – Sumdo (10 KMs) – Namashang La – Korzok or Tso Moriri(53 KMs) = 339 KMs
Of course, you can plan the route from Tso Moriri to Pangong lake, but in general, it does not fit in the overall plan because of acclimatization and losing the opportunity of exiting via Tso Moriri to Sarchu to Manali route.
Do not forget to refill petrol/diesel at Karu or Upshi petrol pump and if you want to exit Ladakh through Manali – Leh Highway then also carry petrol/diesel for about 500 – 550 KMs as the next petrol pump will be available at Tandi.
Otherwise, you need to come back to Karu or Upshi, refill and move back again towards Manali – Leh Highway.
You can check the detailed Tso Moriri map. You can download this detailed map of Leh Ladakh by right-clicking & then select the option: “Save Image As…”
Road Conditions and Preferred Vehicles
The higher ground clearance vehicles are preferable, and 4×4 ones would be helpful, especially between Pangong Tso and Tso Moriri via Man – Merak – Chusul – Nyoma (Changthang) route. However, for the general route from Chumathang, quite a few people do it in hatchbacks and sedans as well which depends upon your skills to drive and road conditions at the time of travel.
In general Leh to Tso Moriri road condition via Upshi – Chumathang route is good enough for any type of the car including hatches and sedan.
It is always recommended to carry these important spare parts when you drive to Ladakh.
Video – Tso Moriri Lake Tourist Attractions
How to plan a trip to Tso Moriri lake?
Generally, when you plan a trip to Tso Moriri, then at least a one-night stay is recommended to witness the mesmerizing beauty of this blue colored lake truly. Of course, one night’s stay will help you watch sunrise and sunset over the picturesque landscape and increase the charm of your vacation to a great extent.
As it will take you about 8-9 hrs to reach Tso Moriri from Leh, it does not make any sense to go there, touch it and come back in a single day. Also, you miss a chance to take Tso Kar – Taglang La route when coming back to Leh from Tso Moriri.
If you plan to exit Ladakh from Tso Moriri to Sarchu to Manali route, then plan for a three day trip with night halts at Tso Moriri and Sarchu before reaching Manali from Leh.
Generally, most people plan a two day Tso Moriri itinerary like:
Day 1 | Leh – Tso Moriri via Chumathang – Namashang La
- Cover Korzok Monastery
- Overnight at Tso Moriri or Korzok
Day 2 | Tso Moriri – Tso Kar – Debring – Taglang La – Rumste – Upshi – Karu – Leh
- Cover Tso Kar Lake and Taglang La (some part of Manali – Leh Highway)
- Overnight at Leh
You can also check our most common Itinerary for a Ladakh trip
Where to Stay
You cannot find accommodation on the banks of the lake because it is restricted to pitch the camps there being a Ramsar site wetland reserve and sanctuary for migratory birds. You can pitch the tents near the other tented colonies pitched just before Korzok village or find accommodation in Korzok village.
Both ways you will definitely have a clear and broad view of the 24 KM in length, 6 KM in width this magnificent blue colored high altitude lake.
For a comprehensive list of accommodation options or hotels or camps around Tso Moriri lake, you can refer to these good Tso Moriri hotels or accommodation options to stay.
Medical Facilities Nearby
The nearest basic medical health center may be available at Korzok Village though I am not that sure about it. You can get basic first aid including Oxygen doses at some of the tents/camps, I guess else you can carry your own oxygen cylinder from Leh with you.
Where to Eat
Being a remote place, you will either be eating in the homestays at Korzok Village or at the camps/tents near Korzok in which you might be staying overnight.
The options of eating places at Tso Moriri lake is fairly limited to the homestays and camping sites available Korzok.
You should always carry your water bottle and refill it as many times as you need water. It will not only keep you hydrated always, but you will also help in saving the Himalayas from plastic garbage. Remember, every tiny step counts and your step in this direction can help save the Himalayas too !! 🙂 🙂
Phone Connectivity
You will not find any phone or mobile signals at Tso Moriri Lake. The only postpaid connections work in Leh Ladakh and BSNL have the widest coverage followed by Airtel and Reliance Jio.
Petrol Pumps near Tso Moriri
Nearest Petrol Pump is at Karu (about 204 km) from Tso Moriri and comes on the way to Tso Moriri from Leh. I will suggest that you top-up the fuel from Leh itself and then drive/ride up to Tso Moriri.
In case you are planning to exit from Manali Leh Highway, do not forget to carry spare fuel with you so that you make it to Tandi. The overall distance that you will cover without the petrol pump will be 550 km on Leh – Tso Moriri – Sarchu – Manali route.
ATMs
You will not find any ATMs near Tso Moriri lake and hence, it is always better to carry cash from Leh (the only place where you find ATM in Ladakh) itself.
Frequently Asked Questions
Let us look at some of the most frequently asked questions about Pangong lake. In case I have missed to cover any question in this article, feel free to give me a shoutout and I will answer and add to this list.
<strong>What is the taxi fare for Leh to Tso Moriri?</strong>
As per taxi union rates of 2020, a two day trip from Leh to Tso Moriri taxi fare is Rs 15711 and Rs 31362 for a three-day trip from Leh to Tso Moriri to Manali.
Can I travel from Leh to Tso Moriri by bus?
There are three buses that travel from Leh to Tso Moriri every 10th, 20th and 30th day of the month. The Leh to Tso Moriri bus leaves at 6.30 AM on these dates from Leh bus stand. You can read all about Leh to Tso Moriri lake bus service.
Which one is better to visit between Tso Moriri or Pangong Lake?
If I have to choose between Pangong Lake or Tso Moriri, I will personally visit Tso Moriri lake every time just because of its raw nature and less crowd or less commercialization. However, if you are visiting Leh Ladakh for the first time, you should visit Pangong Lake because it is something that you should not miss on your first trip to Ladakh without regretting it.
Can I make a Tso Moriri to Leh trip in a single day?
It is highly NOT recommended to make a one day trip to Tso Moriri Lake. You should always plan for at least two days trip from Leh.
Conclusion
Tso Moriri lake is one of my favorite places to visit in Ladakh, sometimes I feel it is much better than Pangong Tso lake. However, for the first time in Ladakh, I am sure Pangong Tso is something that they should not miss.
I hope this travel guide of Tso Moriri lake helps you plan your trip successfully.
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Please feel free to post any queries or doubts you might have in planning your trip to Tso Moriri in the comments section of this article. If you have been to this lake, kindly share your thoughts and other information you might feel will be worth sharing with other fellow travelers and prove helpful to them.
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Hi Dheeraj,
You are doing really amazing work by helping out the fellow travelers with your useful info. Wanted your help regarding one thing, we are planning a trip on rented byks from Manali to Leh, so is that possible to visit Tso Moriri & Pangong Tso while coming from Manali with Manali rented byks or we will be needing Leh rented byks to visit there.
Thanks 🙂
Sanchit, I am sure that you will not be allowed for Pangong Tso as outside rented bikes are not allowed up there. However, for Tso Moriri while exiting on Manali – Leh, you might be able to do it.
Dheeraj,
Thanks for your info. Can you please provide the shortest route to Tso Moriri from Jispa or Sarchu.
Sanchit, our maps of Ladakh will give you a better idea too. Here is the link: DoW – Maps of Ladakh | Nubra Valley & Changthang
You should not do Tso Moriri while going from Manali to Leh because first the taxi from Manali will not be allowed to visit Tso Moriri. Even if you manage Leh taxi or going on your own, then you will not be acclimatized to sleep at such high altitude so early in the trip and may cause some ugly AMS issues for you. Highly not recommended, because any help if required will be very hard to find in case you get hit with AMS.
Dear Dheeraj
this june end we had hit the road to leh via manali road. Ur devil on wheel blog has been a true travel guide for us. Since we were on adventure drive. We did expect few road blockages and unseen incidents. Thankfully we never had any unseen incidents. But we did have to wait for almost 10 hours in a road blockade. Since we had packed lots of dry fruits and maggi as well. It was okay for us. But we would see few others hunting for water and some foods. Few of business strated up as some people started selling fruits for few extra bucks. I cant 4get the scene with even our own indian army men standing in the que to buy banana n other stuffs. Single piece of banana was sold at 10 bucks. At the end of the day. Its all about surviving. Since we had some extra water and fruits we offered and distributed it to childrens and few army man.
Since it was getting late Some of our members wanted to return back to leh and start the next day. But few of us had patience to wait for 10 hours to open up the road. Finally road got cleared. It was at 2.00AM that we checked into the camp.
To our fellow adventurer we would like to suggest. Pack up good amount of dry fruits and water. You may drive or ride and may be the most expert one. But never take nature for granted. Anyting unexpected can happen in this ladakh region.
Thank you Chukhu for sharing very vital details with all of us. Yes, for sure one must carry spare and staple food as backup because at times there are long long queues of traffic jams on these highways especially Jammu – Srinagar – Leh and Manali – Leh
Hi Dheeraj, I am travelling to Ladakh on road trip on 9th July. My itinerary is
Chandigarh – Manali (night stay) – Rohtang Pass – Jispa (night stay) – instead of Saarchu, i want to go directly to Tso Mori ri, is this possible? How long does this take ? and the to Leh. 2 nights in Leh and then to Nubra valley (night stay) – Pangong lake (night stay) via Wari la route. From Pangong should we directly go towards Kargil or should we comeback to Leh for a night. From Kargil, its Sonmarg and then we end at Srinagar. So I had 2 queries
1) Tso Mori ri visit from Manali instead of Leh
2) Nubra – Pangong – Leh or Nubra – Pangong – Kargil
Request to please help here
1. You should not do Tso Moriri while going from Manali to Leh because first the taxi from Manali will not be allowed to visit Tso Moriri. Even if you manage Leh taxi or going on your own, then you will not be acclimatized to sleep at such high altitude so early in the trip and may cause some ugly AMS issues for you. Highly not recommended, because any help if required will be very hard to find in case you get hit with AMS.
2. Nubra – Pangong Tso – Leh should be good to go in 2 days. But, please make sure that you travel in group not solo on the route from Nubra to Pangong Tso as the route is desolated and there will not be any help in case required in quite a distance.
Hi Mate,
First of all I am a big fan of your blog,
1. I needed some suggestions and information on my trip, i will reach Leh on 29th July in the evening and i have kept it for rest, and on 3rd August i have a morning flight from leh.. so basically i have 30, 31,1 and 2…. i want to cover all 3 places Pangong Tso, Tso Moriri and Nubra.
So i request u to help me with this….
2. do we need any permit to go to Tso Moriri from Pangong via direct route i.e. via Chusul? and do we need any permit for any of these 3 Places?
3. we are 4 people so what traveling options do we have to visit all these places as in other post you have mentioned about taxi union rules.
4. Information on Camel ride and Jeep Safari
I know alot of questions 😛 but if u can help me with this I would be very grateful 🙂
Thanku so much 🙂
Hi Prateek,
30th as well you need to rest and do local sightseeing of Leh in the evening. Then next two days you can go over to 2 day trip of Nubra Valley, finally one day trip to Pangong Tso. This is all you can do in 4 days you have with you.
25th July – Srinagar
26th July – Srinagar – Sonamarg
27th July – Amarnath Yatra (Baltal)
28th July – Baltal – Lamayuru
29th July – Lamayuru – Leh
30th July – Leh Sightseeing – Diskit/Hunder
31st July – Diskit – Pangong Tso via Wari la/Shyok
1st August – Pangong Tso – Tso Moriri via Chusul
2nd August – Tso Moriri – Leh via Shey, Thiksey
3rd August – Flight from Leh
This is my Plan, I know its hectic towards the end but we have to manage it, as we all are young guys, I want to ask you 4 things:-
1. Is this plan managable, i know its not n its difficult but if we rush things?
2. According to this plan in which routes we are gonna require permits?? Like do we need permit to take wari la/shyok route?? N Chusul route to Tso moriri??
3. Can Srinagar Private hired car operate in leh region and in sham valley??
4. What would be the approx cost of travelling of my trip?? (I just need approx cost for planning purpose iy need not be exact)
Plz answer all 4 question :p i dont need detailed answer but ur opinion as u r really experienced in this regard
And i want to know about ur mega event bike trip one so can u please whatsapp me the details about the event on 09831111468
tht will be all thanku so much, u r doing a great job man keep it up 🙂
Hi Prateek,
1. All depends on how your bodies will rect to high altitude. Since there is no rest day in Leh, high chnces of getting hit with AMS. So,in case you get through it, it should be OK though hectic s you know
2. Pangong Tso to Tso Moriri via Chusul. Keep in mind that even after permits, no assurance that army will allow you to cross chusul post.
3. No you have to hire taxi again in Leh
4. For doubts related to budget for Leh – Ladakh trip, I am sure the link below will help you alot for getting an idea of overall budget:
How to calculate cost or budget for Leh – Ladakh trip
Hi Dheeraj,
You have answered all my quires very graciously, last few quires before i stop disturbing you 😛
1. Do we need Permit to use
a. Nubra – Wari La – Pangong Tso Route
b. Nubra – Shyok – Pangong Tso Route?
2. Where in leh can we do Paragliding and other adventure sports?
3. In case army refuse us to go via Chusul – Nyoma route cant we take right from Chusul/Nama and go to Tso Moriri via Chusul – Mahe route (Google Map suggested)? n do we need permit for this?
4. Baltal – Lamayuru
Lamayuru – Leh ( Including Sham Valley on Route)
Leh – Panamik
Panamik – Pangong Tso
Pangong Tso – Tso Moriri
Tso Moriri – Leh
What should be the approx cost of transportation for the trip above if we are 4 people and we hire a xylo or innova, just need a figure so that we can bargain with travel agents and so that they dont loot us
Thanks alot man you are great 🙂
1 Prateek, for direct route to Pangong tso no permit required.
2. Paragliding does not happen in Leh and now it is banned in Manali too. Rafting can be done at Nimmu or Shey
3. No you cannot take that route as army does not allow at all to travel from that route. Also, it passes through Kaksang La pass which is higher than Khardung La and Chang La plus no one travel on that route so any kind of help will not be possible to come in case required on that route
4. May be around 45-50K. Better check with drivers directly. For the leh – ladakh taxi union rate list 2015 – 16 including the contacts of some reliable taxi drivers within Leh – Ladakh, check the link here. You can get about 10-12% of discount by directly getting in touch with drivers and of course, talking in person rather on phone always help in bargaining more.
Thank You so Much Dheeraj Bhai you helped me alot will let you know my experience when i return back, will try to update as much as possible
thank you again 🙂
Will look forward to it Prateek.
Dear Dheeraj,
we are 4 people and visiting Ladakh on mid of july due to time limit we will be able to visit either Pangong or TSO moriri lake, so we are confused between the two.
please guide which one is preferable and we are planning our journey via bike to either of them, is it possible?
Both have their own charm I will say and is always difficult to choose among two. Pangong Tso has more crowd and more famous and more bigger while Tso Moriri is smaller yet very big, has less crowd and more peace.
thank you for your view Dheeraj is it advisable to go to TSO Moriri from Leh on Bike?
Yeahm you can do Tso Moriri from Leh on bike
Dear Dheeraj,
we are planning to visit TSO moriri from Manali via sarchu by Taxi, wich are the precautions should we take to prevent high altitude sickness ?
should we keep oxygen cylinder with us?
You should not do Tso Moriri while going from Manali to Leh because first the taxi from Manali will not be allowed to visit Tso Moriri. Even if you manage Leh taxi or going on your own, then you will not be acclimatized to sleep at such high altitude so early in the trip and may cause some ugly AMS issues for you. Highly not recommended, because any help if required will be very hard to find in case you get hit with AMS.
Sir, I want to know the route from Kaza to TSO Moriri in deail
Naresh, Kaza to Gramphu – Keylong route is expected to open in another 5-6 days. To reach Tso Moriri from Kaza, you can do it as below:
Kaza – Kunzum Pass – Batal – Gramphu – Keylong/Sissu
Keylong/Sissu – Sarchu/Pang/Tso Kar Lake
Sarchu/Pang/Tso Kar Lake – Tso Moriri
Dear Dhiraj,
Thank you so much for this fantastic compilation. I need a help, i am biking from Manali to Tso Murari and spend soem 5-6 days in Tso Murari doing nothing. Is there a way to go there directly or do i need to get to Upshi and then turn from there
Warm Regards,
Vivek, yes there is a way to travel from Debring to Tso Kar and then towards Tso Moriri. However, it is not recommended at all because the body is not acclimatized to stay up there that early. It is always better that you spend a night in Leh, then at Chumathang and then finally at Tso Moriri spend some days.
Dear Dheeraj,
thank you so much for this information. Yes, ompletely agree on the acclimitization piece, a killer if there ever was one. I have travelled Manali Leh earlier as well so completely agree with it.
What if end us spending a day at Sissu / Jispa/ Karu do you think that will help with Acclimitization. I am just not looking forward to enter Leh and then drive back from there?
Also are there any permits needed if i do Debring – Tso Murari ?
Once fantastic work here, i would love to help if i can in any way
Cheers
Being INdian you do not need any permit to Tso Moriri
Hi,
Extremely helpful compilation. Plz guide me if I can do Tso Moriri with my 4 year old son. Also, if I can not do any advanced reservations at Tso Moriri for accommodations, what’s the odd of not getting an accommodation upon reaching the place.
Thanks,
Nabhanil
Nabhanil, it depends upon the time of visit. You will very likely get a homestay up there but getting a camp might be tricky as there are only 2-3 camping options only. It depends on person to person to take the children of such age group because AMS do not matter with respect to age or sex or any physical health condition. It can happen to anyone of any age or sex or fitness I shall say :D… The issue with children is that they tend to exert the body considering it the same kind of place they belong to and this elevates the chances of getting struck with AMS. Secondly, they are not much expressive about their uneasy feelings, so it is parents who need to watch out and take care that the child is not suffering from uneasy feelings, headache or nausea and is behaving properly. With less than 3 year child, I think he/she will also be NOT able to convey the uneasiness she may feel. You have to be vigilant and if you notice any such feeling or he/she tells you about such a feeling then please do not ascend anywhere, either descend to lower altitude or stay at the same place to watch things overnight and if symptom increase then start descending immediately. Same is applicable for any adult as well. And yes, do keep the body adequately hydrated!!
Also, PLEASE read the article: Traveling to Ladakh with Kids or Babies. This article covers this topic in complete detail.
Kindly do not take 4 year old son along..It can be very dangerous. .There are also no medical facilities fr hundreds of kms
I’m gonna be in Leh and would love to travel around with fellow like-minded travellers, from 13thJune onwards… PM me 🙂
May be check the Travel Calendar from the main menu.
Dear Dheeraj
I am 59 & my wife 52,she has some knee problem.We are planing for visit Leh-Ladakh in this June.After getting your encouraging suggestion we are very much interested to visit Tso Moriri lake.Is it possible for us? without any camping did we stay there?
Sushil ji, yes you can visit Tso Moriri lake too. There are homestays in the Korzok village just nearby the lake.
Hi Dheeraj,
Congratulations on such an amazing compilation of your experiences. Being a fan of reading, writing and travelling myself I must say I envy what you have managed to accomplish here. Great going and wish you lots of luck.
I have a trip planned to Leh this year and have finalized the complete itinerary(thanks to DoW for playing a part in it) but I am stuck with this last leg of my journey to Tso Moriri. I wanted to check if you can help with some personal recommendation of homestay at Tso Moriri as you have mentioned somewhere that it is your personal favorite. I have already read the part where you mentioned about the stay options and the fact that there are no contact details but I still thought of double checking if you can get me some contact info. This we are spending the previous night in a camp at Pangong I am particular about finding a guesthouse or a homestay at Tso Moriri and avoid camping.
Thanks again.
Thank you Meha !! 🙂 🙂
Goose Homestay is good to stay in Tso Moriri. There isn;t any phone connection, so you cannot book these homestays.
Hi Dheeraj Bhai,
First of all thanks a ton for the whole of information put on your website.
When I’m checking the route from Merak to TsoMoriri, in the google maps, I’m able to see the following route to Chumathang:
https://goo.gl/maps/StN86
Can you please let me know if this route is feasible to reach TsoMoriri from Merak if we don’t want to Cover Hanle. It would be around July 12 by the time we reach Merak.
Once again,
Thanking,
Regards
Manohar
Manohar, I replied a better suggest for the first trip to Ladakh on your other comment I guess. Also, about this route in detail, please read: Tips for Pangong Tso to Tso Moriri Direct Route
Dear Dhiraj,
Just need an opinion. If we have to make a choice between Pangong tso and Tso Moriri, due to time limitations, what should we choose? Keeping in mind we want to camp a night at the lake. Thanks in advance.
At both the lakes camping is not allowed in the radius of about 500+ Mtrs because these lakes falls under Ramsar Conservation site. So, you cannot camp at any of the lake. Now, if you are making first trip to Ladakh then go with Pangong Tso else go with Tso Moriri. I love Tso Moriri personally anytime of the day 🙂
Hi Dheeraj,
Great article, and thanks for all the guidance and help to the community!
I shall be travelling to Ladakh with wife and 2 kids (age 6 and 11). Could you comment if the following looks feasible or too strenuous for kids?
Day 1 — Leh – Shey-Thicksey-Pangong Lake. Overnight Pangong
Day 2 — Pangong – Hemis — Chang La – Karu – Upshi – Chumathang. Over night Chumathang
Day 3 — Chumathang – Mahe Bridge – Sumdo – Tso Moriri –Karzok Monastery
Day 4 — Karzok – Sumdo – Mahe Bridge – Tso Kar – Leh
Basically, I want to avoid Leh on day 2, and rather spend the night in Chumathang.
Will the drive from Pangong to Chumathang be too long? What are the accommodation options there?
Thanks a lot in anticipation,
Suman
Suman, are you just traveling for these 4 days? I mean are you landing in Leh on Day 1 and then driving directly to Pangong Tso?
Hi Dheeraj, NO 🙂 Its only a part of the itinerary. The total trip is as follows:
20th May: Srinagar airport to Sonmarg
21st May: Sonmarg (see Tejiwas glacier) to Kargil
22nd May: kargil to Leh
23rd May: Leh. Rest till lunch. After lunch local sightseeing at Shanti Stupa, Hall of Fame, Leh market, Leh Palace. Overnight at Hotel.
24th May: Leh-Hundar (Nubra valley) via Khardung La. Overnight at Hundar
25th May: Hundar – Turtuk – Deskit. Visit Deskit Monastery. Overnight at Deskit/Hunder
26th May — Visit the Maitreya Buddha and Diskit Monastery back to Leh
27th May — Leh – Shey-Thicksey-Pangong Lake. Overnight Pangong
28th May — Pangong – Hemis — Chang La – Karu – Upshi – Chumathang. Overnight Chumathang
29th May — Chumathang – Mahe Bridge – Sumdo – Tso Moriri –Karzok Monastery
30th May — Karzok – Sumdo – Mahe Bridge – Tso Kar – Leh
31st May — Shyam Valley
1st June — Fly to Srinagar
2nd June — Fly Back Home
Oki cool, here are my inputs then:
1. Why to stay at Deskit, it is just 10 mins from hunder. So stay at same hotel only and there will be no need to carry luggage and change of hotels.
2. Chumathang has only one place to stay at that is Hot Spring Resort which has about 5-6 rooms and couple of them with common bath. So, in case it is occupied you may need to stay in some home stay at Mahe village or Nyoma village.
3. Tso Kar does not come from Mahe. You will go like Korzok – Sumdo – Polokong La – Tso Kar -Taglang La – Upshi – Leh
3. Rest looks fine to me.
Thanks, Dheeraj…appreciate all the help!
Looks like getting a confirmed accommodation in Chumathang might be a problem? Will May end be too busy?
In that case, what if we not proceed to Chumathang , but instead spend the night in Hemis? How is the accommodation options there?
Regarding home stays in Mahe village or Nyoma village: do they have basic facilities and attached bath with water etc?
You can refer the thread and try to get in touch with Zotpa many times to see if you get connected. He can block it for you if you lucky to get connected some day as network there is erratic so you need to try many times. Here is the link from DwD Community: https://discoverwithdheeraj.com/india/ladakh-zanskar-hotels-guest-houses/hot-springs-resort-chumathang-t248.html
Regarding home stays, most of them have common bath with no water and only dry pits.
Thanks, Dheeraj. Generally I always make it a point to book hotels at every place beforehand. However, need some advice in Ladakh.
Given that we shall be travelling in end May, should we book all hotels? My main concern is that if some road closes due to landslide etc, our itinerary might have to change?
In general, what is the chance of that happening? Is it generally advisable to book hotels beforehand in Ladakh?
Many people book it but you know the risk. Most hotels do not return in such cases. Here it is not just the risk of landslide but also health pertaining to AMS and acclimatization which also cancels the trip. I feel in case you are one of those who rely on bookings more than just landing there and searching a bit, better book else go as it comes 🙂
In case you need to check the quotes, you can write to info@offbeatescapes.com who have got a very decent feedback from many readers in the past couple of years so you can check quote from them too.
Hi Dheeraj,
Greetings !!
I appreciate DOW. Your posts are really very informative, pragmatic and much deliberated. Best part is that you’ve replied to all queries very sincerely.
Having gone through the posts, I am tempted to visit Tso Moriri during my coming visit to Leh in mid July with 5 friends. We’ll be hiring a car to travel from Manali To Leh covering the distance in two days and then spend 5 full days in and around Leh/ Ladakh before flying back on the 6th day. We’ve plans to visit Nubra Valley and Pangong etc by motorcycles.
Can I have your opinion if it is OK to visit Tso Moriri enroute while travelling from Manali to Leh (covering in 3 days instead of 2) in terms of feasibility or constraints related to acclimatization, permit, distance etc.How convenient is it to ride motorcycles on this route.
Best Regards
Pankaj Verma
Hi Pankaj,
Thanks a ton 🙂
You should not do Tso Moriri while going from Manali to Leh because first the taxi from Manali will not be allowed to visit Tso Moriri. Even if you manage Leh taxi or going on your own, then you will not be acclimatized to sleep at such high altitude so early in the trip and may cause some ugly AMS issues for you. Highly not recommended, because any help if required will be very hard to find in case you get hit with AMS.
Regards
Dheeraj
Hi Dheeraj,
Thanks a lot for this valuable information. We’ll plan accordingly.
Best Regards
Pankaj
Hello Dheeraj,
I am planing for Leh- Ldakh in June and as per your advice I am keeping two days in Leh including the day I reach to acclimatize. Then I would move to Nubra and get back to Leh. After that I have to cover Pangong Tso & Tso Moriri. I am keeping 2 days for Pangong Tso. But I am not sure on the route and permit issue from Pangong to Tso Moriri. I have to get back to Leh to board the flight at the end of the journey rather exit through Manali.Can you please guide on the route and plan to visit these two lakes and get back comfortably to Leh.
Indranil, if it is your first tour to Ladakh, I will strongly suggest to follow normal traditional routes:
Day 1 | Leh – Hemis Monastery – Pangong Tso Lake
— Cover either of Hemis, Thicksey and Shey on the go towards Pangong Tso
— Overnight at Pangong Tso (Spangmik or Lukung)
Day 2 | Pangong Tso Lake – Thicksey Monastery – Shey Palace – Leh
— Cover either of Hemis, Thicksey and Shey on return to Leh
— Overnight at Leh
Day 3 | Leh – Tso Moriri via Chumathang
— Cover Karzok Monastery
— Overnight at Karzok or Tso Moriri
Day 4 | Tso Moriri – Tso Kar – Debring (Manali – Leh Highway starts) – Taglang La – Upshi – Leh
— Come back via Tso Kar and Manali – Leh Highway to Leh
— Overnight at Leh
Thanks Dheeraj, much appreciated.
DOW ROCKS !!
Pleasure, yeah Long Live DoW !! 🙂 🙂
I agree with your pointers on the suggestive route from Pangong Tso -> Tso Moriri. Since we are opting for Nubra first how is the following route – Nubra valley – Khalsar – Agham – Wari La – Sarkti(Shakti) – Chang La – Tangste – Pangong, since we have to come back to Leh again and then head for Pangong.
Indranil, Regarding Nubra Valley to Pangong Tso route, in order to take Nubra Valley to Pangong Tso via Shyok village, you need not need any permits. However, with such a small distance it appears tempting to be done BUT just to analyze the difficulty I will strongly suggest that you read:Trip Report | Nubra – Shyok Village – Pangong Tso Route. The report is from couple of year back in June & in July/August, most likely the route is washed away. Similar, reports are there from last year as well. So better confirm first, analyze the high risk involved and then only attempt it or better avoid it unless very much sure.
Next possible way is to attempt Wari La route, which is also a bit desolated but doable enough. If your driver agrees to travel on this route then take the Wari La route to Pangong Tso. Remember that any help required on both these routes will be HARD to find in miles of distance. If you have couple of vehicles then only take this route otherwise best is to avoid it.
Hi Dheeraj,
Thanks for the detailed and clear cut explanation on the trip from Leh to Pangong as well as Tso Moriri.
Can you let me know whether I can hire car in Leh so self driving. Yes you read that correctly. I would prefer to drive around Leh and surrounding. Is it a good idea to drive around by self. I have driven on high altitude terrain for a long long time so I don’t think it will be a problem for me.
Hope to hear back from you soon.
Cheers,
Arpit Desai
Arpit, you will not be able to get any self drive car in Ladakh on rent, AFAIK. It is much better to hire a taxi and then tip the drive to let you drive. It is more economic, less painful and have less liability + no security deposits. Not to forget a helping expert hand too in case you are tired or get the vehicle stuck on a trick patch. You can get a rented bike though.
hey dheeraj,
last year i have visited leh but couldnt visit Tso Moriri. This year i wanna do only that. I would take the same route via manali. I want to visit Moriri lake and then return to my place. Can you please guide me how to reach from manali.
cheers
Bhaskar
Bhaskar, it is very tricky to visit Tso Moriri and return back due to the acclimatization issues. I will suggest you visit Leh, rest there for a day to acclimatize a bit, then go over to Chumathang, rest there for a day and next day reach Tso Moriri to stay overnight and then start back to Manali next day.
Dear Bhaskar
I visited leh 3times.No doubt it is only heaven in india
but going to tsomoriri is not easy task.u should atleat acclimatize two days for that
It is appx 15500 altiude.we stay there at lake view hotel.it is only good option .everything is awsome except u may feel difficulty in breathing during knight.u must carry oxygen cylinders otherwise it wil might be difficult for you.tsoimoriri is not described in words its almost heaven
Very much true. Also, apart from Lake view, there is one more homestay by the name “Goose Homestay” who has got lot of praise in the recent past by some readers here on DoW to stay at Tso Moriri in case you happy to stay in home stays.
Can I hire a bike from leh for sightseeing ?
Yes Sarthak there are many bike rental shops available in Leh. For renting bikes in Leh – Ladakh along with current Bike Union Prices, you can check the DwD Community thread: Leh – Ladakh Bike Rental Rates 2014 – 15 & Reliable Shops
Dear Dheeraj,
Referring to Day 2 of your itinerary below, can one drive directly from Tso Moriri to Tso Kar through Angkung without going back all the way to Upshi on the Leh-Manali highway.Can one drive directly from Lake Moriri to Lake Kar through Angkung without going back all the way to Upshi on the Leh-Manali highway.
Thank you
Singababe
Day 2 | Tso Moriri – Tso Kar – Debring – Taglang La – Rumste – Upshi – Karu – Leh
Singababe, refer to the DoW Maps of Ladakh here to get more insights on the route: DoW – Maps of Ladakh | Nubra Valley & Changthang
Dear Dheeraj,
Thank you for taking the time to respond to my query. I salute you for all the effort and energy that you have given to this website in providing travel guides and valuable information to your readers. I manage to gather useful information and it has helped me to fine tune my itinerary for my upcoming trip to Ladakh in June 2015. I may bother you again to illicit your advise once I have all the information.
Much appreciated.
Singababe
Cheers,
Singababe
Singababe, thank you for the kind words of appreciation. Please feel free to post any queries you have in DwD Community Ladakh Itinerary Advice Forum anytime you like 🙂 🙂
Plz share with me the route from Tso Kar to Tso Morriri..
And also route from Debring to Tso Kar?
What is the Approx time..
Tso Kar to Tso Moriri will go via Polokung La Pass and then you reach Sumdo. From Sumdo you take the diversion and via NamshangLa pass, you reach Tso Moriri Lake. You may like to stay in HomeStay kind of arrangements. Cheap and value for money. Rs 600-700 per night. I travelled other way i.e. Tso Moriri to Tso Kar, it took us appx 5 hours. With enough stoppage for photography. If you are coming from Leh Side, after 8km of debring, you will get diversion towards Tso Kar. There is a sign board also, and you cant miss it.
To get an idea of the routes in Ladakh along with distances, you can refer: DoW – Maps of Ladakh | Nubra Valley & Changthang. Keep in mind that, the remote routes are isolated and completely off track with almost no roads. Better stick to traditional routes in case it is the first trip to Ladakh.
we are husband wife duo reaching leh on 26/09 morning by flight.would like to rest whole day and go for sight seeing localy along with sunset.27/09-nubhravalley stay at stendel,28/09-pangong lake stay at karzok,29/09-tsomoriri stay,30/09-back to leh at evening via tsokar,01/10-lamayuru with uleytokpo,zanskar etc,02/10-extra day for local sight seeing,03/10-return flight to kolkata via delhi.is it ok or it will be too hectic please advice.
It is quite a hectic plan and something that I will never recommend. When flying to Leh, always follow first 4 days as:
Day 1 | Delhi – Leh (By Flight)
– Checkin at Hotel. Many hotels provide free pick and drop from Airport. Ask while you book them.
– Take ample of rest as well as water or anything that keep your body hydrated enough. DO NOT OVER HYDRATE. Take ORS Soluted water or ORS – L tetra packs from home.
– Do not over exert your body at any cost. Avoid too much up-down on stairs or avoid it in entirety, if possible.
– After 5-6 Hrs of rest you can visit Leh Palace, Local Leh market, Shankar Gompa .
– If you feel exerted go back to Hotel, have dinner at Hotel and take rest. Avoid any exertion. Else continue and,
– Follow the sunset by stroll at Changspa road and have a nice dinner on varied cuisines offered in-around Changspa road.
– Go back to hotel for overnight stay at Leh.
Day 2 | Leh Local Sightseeing + Acclimatization
– Hire a taxi from Leh taxi stand or Hotel whichever suits you.
– Bargain hard with taxi driver. Book that single taxi for entire trip after explaining the complete plan.
– Take his inputs if you feel reasonable and if required modify the plan accordingly but should suits you best.
– Ask him to be with you guys starting first day itself, if required and charged reasonable else do it at your own.
– Again DO NOT over exert and take little steps and slow walks only.
– Do not use stairs at any of these places just to see them as it will exert your body much more.
– Overnight at Leh
Day 3 | Leh – Khardung La – Diskit – Hunder
– Head for Nubra Valley and stay overnight at Hunder / Diskit
– On the way enjoy a cup of soup at Highest Motorable Pass (as claimed) Khardung La
– Diskit has monasteries with tallest lord Buddha statue and Hunder has sand dunes and bacterian camel safari
Day 4 | Hunder / Diskit – Sumur – Panamik – Sumur – Khardung La – Leh
– Sumur has a famous monastery to check out and Panamik has hot water springs
– Overnight at Leh
Dear Mr. Rudra,
I will be very grateful, if you post yout ladakh photograph in my mail.
Regards,
p.k.acharyya
mail: acharyya_pk@yahoo.com
Dear Dheeraji/Mr, Rudra,
How can I enjoy the phograph of Mr, Rudra regarding Ladakh visit ? Kindly advise.
Regards,
P.K.Acharyya
The only way here is to write a Travel Tale in DwD Community 🙂
Hi Dheeraj,
Great blog, really very informative. Thanks a lot for taking the effort to put it all together, and answer to queries.
My question is, can we easily get shared taxi/sumo for 2 days trips to Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso and Tso Moriri from Leh? I’m asking this as we’re only 2 people and it may be too expensive to book an entire taxi.
Do we have to pre-book it or are options available aplenty and booking can be done after reaching Leh.
Would be great if you can recommend some good driver for the same.
Jitesh, you need to search a bit and find the shared taxis in streets of Main market or changspa road where people post flyers looking for travel partners. In worst case even you can got to Travel agents conducting such shared taxi tours where they charge about 300-500 extra per seat.
Hi Dheeraj,
Thanks for your reply, and sorry to bother you again. If instead of Leh, I go to Kaza, can I get shared taxis to Dhankar, Pin Valley, Ki-Kibber and Tabo from Kaza? Again, we are only 2 people and might not be able to afford booking an entire taxi.
What other mode of transport do you recommend to visit these places from Kaza. I’ll have 4 full days at Kaza, excluding Manali to Kaza and Kaza to Manali legs.
Hello Jitesh,
There will be local taxis that will be running between these places. Getting a tourist shared taxi will be difficult. Try to find out the timinig of these taxis that run there in between these places from Kaza and then plan the 4 days around there accordingly. Kaza – Tabo, a bus also runs there.
Regards
Dheeraj
I have just covered Srinagar- Kargil- Leh- Diskit/Hunder- Pangong via warila – Leh- Tsomoriri- Tso Kar- Sarchu- Manali. It was overall a wonderful trip. I have posted appx 60 photographs in my FB with comments under each photo.
Good to know that Rudra, glad you have a wonderful trip to Ladakh. If possible, try and share your Himalayan experience with us at DoW – Himalayan Travel Community as Photo Tale or Travel Tale Or your reviews of the hotels/guest houses where you stayed or dhabhas/restaurants you ate food on your trip… All this might help others planning the similar trip too 🙂 🙂
Hey Dheeraj,
Your website is like Wikipedia for Leh. Amazing Work Man!!
Need you help and suggestions for our Itinerary.
This is our tentative itinerary :
15th – Reach Srinagar and leave for Kargil Overnight at Kargil
16th – Leave for Leh. Rest whole Day
17th – River Rafting in Zanskar River and rest of the day at Leh.
18th – Leh to Nubra Valley. Overnight at Nubra Valley
19th – Back to Leh. Need to do something on this day. Any Suggestions??
20th – Leh to Pangong Tso Lake – (156 Kms – 4 – 5 Hours). Overnight Stay at Pangong Tso
21st – Pangong Tso Lake to Tso Moriri – (235 Kms – 6 – 7 Hours). Overnight Stay at Tso Moriri
22nd – Tso Moriri to Manali – Is it possible?? We plan to go to Manali directly and chill there for a day. Or we need to do Sarachu stop for a day and leave for Manali the next day??
23rd – Manali – Chill for a day, Visit Rohtang Pass
24th – Return to Mumbai Via Chandigarh or Dharamshala – Afternoon Flight (Around 1 O’clock) . Is it possible or we need to leave one 23rd for Dharamshala or Chandigarh? We are ready to leave early morning at 4 oclock also to catch our flight.
Does it look good??
Thank you Rishab.
Below are the inputs on your itinerary:
1. Not sure when you will reach Srinagar but keep in mind that about 8-9 Hrs it will take to reach Kargil from Srinagar. So, take a call accordingly.
2. Rafting on third day is not at all suggested as it exerts body and you will not be acclimatized to handle it. You may fell sick. So, avoid. Do it after coming from Nubra Valley. So, you got the needed suggestion on 19th
3. After Pangong Tso, do it like:
21: Pangong Tso – Leh
22: Leh – Sarchu
23: Sarchu – Manali
24: Manali to Chandigarh
Hey Dheeraj,
Thanks for your inputs. I have made another itinerary after considering your suggestions and it looks like this :
15th – Reach Srinagar and leave for Sonmarg Overnight at Sonmarg
16th – Sonmarg to Leh. Overnight at Leh
17th – Rest day at Leh. Probably in the second half we can go out to the leh market.
18th – Leh to Nubra Valley. Overnight at Nubra Valley
19th – Nubra Valley to Pangong Tso Lake – (156 Kms – 4 – 5 Hours). Overnight Stay at Pangong Tso
20th – Pangong Tso Lake to Leh. Overnight at Leh.
21st – Leh to Tso Moriri – (235 Kms – 6 – 7 Hours). Overnight Stay at Tso Moriri
22nd – Tso Moriri to Sarchu or Jispa
23rd – Sarchu or Jispa to Manali. Visit Rohtang Pass
24th – Return to Mumbai Via Chandigarh. Late evening flight.
Just one thing we are missing it the river rafting, is it possible to accommodate that on any of the days? And overall the itinerary is sound right?
Thanks in advance!
It seems much better, just note that Wari La is an desolated route and there will be no help around in case required. Regarding rafting, you can start early from Pangong Tso and do it on that day, if really necessary.
Also on the route to tso moriri from pangong via karu, is there any stay option/hotel/guesthouse
You have few basic options at Upshi where you can stay else there is Chumathang Hot Srping Resort which is also basic but OK to stay. Read the review at: Hot Springs Resort, Chumathang
Hi,
I was looking at the map n jus wondering on the way to tso moriri from pangong tso via chusul can I skip tsaga la. Tk a turn after completing chusul reach mahe via kaksangla
Sudeep, that route is quite dangerous and risky and no one takes that route. It is an alternate in case of emergencies for army. If anything happens there, there is no one for rescue too. So, take a call accordingly. If you are not allowed to pass through Chusul, you will not be able to take any of these routes.
Thanks Dheeraj, one thing that’s not related to this thread. I hv a DSLR wid 18-55 lens is that gud engh fr ladakh or do I need to buy 55-250 as well
Sudeep, may be some wider lens will help you more because you will like to cover as much possible as you can in wide valley of Ladah. I have a 70-300 and rarely gets it out to change and take a shot. Unless you are interested to take some close portrait shots of persons or wildlife, 55-250 will not serve you much. You will see majority of picture you will click will be of 18-20 range only when you come back 🙂
Ehh I m new to world is DSLRs so wat wud b d measurement of a wide lens I believe these are quiet xpensive
Sudeep, 8mm goes like widest as FishEye and then there are 10-20, 11-16, 12-24 common ones.
Hi, it’s wonderful to see the good work that you are doing. I too had a query. I prefer travelling alone on my bike. Have been to ladakh last year alone. covered delhi-manali-Leh-nubra-pangong-srinagar-delhi last year and missed out on Tso moriri. This year too I will be going in September solo and would want to cover Tso moriri. is it advisable to take the route before Pang on route Leh from Manali or should I come back from Leh and do a one night, two days trip to Moriri. Especially since I am travelling alone.
Pranab, it is NOT recommended at all to sleep at Tso Moriri while going to Leh from Manali side because of high altitude of the lake and your body will not be acclimatized by then. It is best that you do the trip to Tso Moriri when you return from the trip to rest of the Ladakh. Which dates are you planning?
Hi dheeraj,
We were planning to visit Leh Ladakh on 29th July and returning on 5th Morning.
Day 1: 30th July: Arrive Via Manali-Sarchu (night stay) at Leh and take rest.(Night-Leh)
Day 2: 31st July: : Leh – Khardung La – Sumoor – Deskit – Hundar – Nubra Valley. (Night-Nubra)
Day 3: 1st Aug Nubra valley Return to Leh and local sight seeing + (Thikse Monastery, Leh Palace, Leh Market, Shanti Stupa, etc.(Night-Leh)
Day 4: 2nd Aug: Leh – Pangong Lake – Leh (Night-Leh)
Day 5: 3rd Aug: Leh – Tsomoriri- ( Night- Tsomoriri)
Day 6: 4th Aug: Tsomoriri- Alachi/Ule (Night-Ule orLamayuru)
Day 7: 5th Aug: Ule to Srinagar ( Night- Sonamarg OR Srinagar)
Day 8: 6th Aug: Leave Srinagar Airport 1400hrs
Pls advise & suggest modification in route within time frame.
Ikshit, you are trying to cram to many things in this ladakh trip with limited number of days in hand. You leaving Manali on 29th morning?
yes,29th morning will start from Manali.
>29th Night Sarchu
>30th rest day at Leh.
> 31st drive to nubravalley across khardongla pass and over night stay at deluxe camp at hunder.
> 01st august visit deskit monastery camel ridding own payment and back to Leh.
> 2nd after breakfast early morning process to pangong lake and back to Leh evening.
> 3rd after breakfast drive to tsomorri lake over night stay at camp.
> 4th back to Leh and visit thiksey monastery, sindhu ghat night Leh.
>5th Leave for srinagar by road
Ikshit , I will suggest couple of changes in here. First that you should avoid night stay at Sarchu as it can cause trouble of AMS. Better stay at Jispa or Keylong and do journey to Leh next day. Second, add one day in there after you reach Leh for acclimatization and rest. You will be reaching Leh on 30th which will not be enough for acclimatization and you will be carrying a lot of risk in it.
Hi dheeraj,
this is somnath from kolkata. Would like to know if it is possible to cover tso moriri from leh while exiting from leh to manali in a day… We would be be taking something like a leh jeep if possible in around 1st week of August… Thanks in advance…
Somnath, you will have to do Leh – Tso Moriri – Sarchu – Manali in 3 days with overnights at Tso Moriri and Sarchu and finally at Manali.
Hi Dheeraj,
We were planning to visit Leh Ladakh on 26th July (morning) and returning on 30th Morning. We are confused whether the time is sufficient to cover all the beauties of barren land. Can you please guide me the route if we have to cover both Pangong Tso-Tso Moriri.
Thanks in Advance.
Gaurav, it is too less time to visit Ladakh. Better come back with some more time on hands to really enjoy the beauty of Ladakh. If you flying in and out of Leh, then you should have about 8–10 days of easy comfortable trip to Ladakh covering all three major tourist places in Ladakh.
Hi Dheeraj,
I am planning to visit Leh-Ladakh during 31/8 – 6/9 along with my wife. We are in our early 30’s and quite healthy :). we’ll be travelling from Hyderabad-Delhi-Leh by flight and same will be our return trip too. I believe the below itinerary suits our plan:
Day 1: Arrive at Leh and take rest.
Day 2: Leh local, Thikse Monastery, Leh Palace, Leh Market, Shanti Stupa, etc.
Day 3: Leh – Khardung La – Sumoor – Deskit – Hundar – Nubra Valley
Day 4: Return to Leh and take rest
Day 5: Leh – Pangong Lake – Leh
Day 6: Leh – Sangam – Magnetic Hill – Gurudwara
However, we want to include Tso Moriri and Tso kar too in our itinerary. Please advice.
Uday, you do not have sufficient days to include Tso Moriri which need at least 2 days. Also, on day 3 just cover Hunder and Deskit. Day 4 you can cover Sumur and Panamik
Thanks Dheeraj for the feedback.
But we have already booked the ticket and can’t postpone in the last minute.
Keeping in mind the time constraints, which place we should not skip?
Gaurav, in that case you can follow something like below:
26: Reach Leh, Rest and acclimatize
27: Rest, acclimatize and local sightseeing in Leh
28: Day trip to Khardung La and if you can stretch then Nubra Valley only if you are feeling good while ascending
29: Day trip to Pangong Tso
Dheeraj,
We are planning to go to Tso Moriri from Pangong tso on 16th July. Is the “Pangong Tso Lake to Tso Moriri Lake via Changthang” open at this time? The person at camps of ladakh mentioned that it might not be open but am not able to find clear information from anyone. Any suggestions to whom to talk to?
Sanjay, Regarding Pangong Tso to Tso Moriri route or Pangong Tso to Hanle, the permits to Man – Merak – Chusul – Tsaga or remote Changthang routes are being given by DC office in Leh at ON and OFF basis, so keep your fingers crossed and hope for the best if they start issuing the permits by the time you visit or issue you on your lucky day. Also, even if the permits are given then as well there is no guarantee that you will be allowed to cross Chusul Post or not because last year several such incidents happened and people with permits also had to return via same route. All this will mean that you will have to risk it for at least a day getting wasted if you are not allowed because there will be no guarantee until you cross Chusul and Tsaga post. Otherwise, you have to take the traditional routes only via Leh.
is it possible to find shared taxi from manali via tso Morri lake to leh.
Moun, it is very hard to find. And above all You should not do Tso Moriri while going from Manali to Leh because first the taxi from Manali will not be allowed to visit Tso Moriri. Even if you manage Leh taxi or going on your own, then you will not be acclimatized to sleep at such high altitude so early in the trip and may cause some ugly AMS issues for you. Highly not recommended, because any help if required will be very hard to find in case you get hit with AMS.
Is it possible to get to Moriri lake from South. There’s a small road Kibber leading to Thaktote and Lam Tso and Krangdom than continue along lake. We are by bicycle. Is it possible by car? Then perhaps by bicycle too…
Cinderellla, to get an idea of all the motorable routes in Ladakh along with distances, you can refer: DoW – Maps of Ladakh | Nubra Valley & Changthang. Keep in mind that, the remote routes are isolated and completely off track with almost no roads. Better stick to traditional routes in case it is the first trip to Ladakh.
Regarding the road you talking about, that is a trek path that leads from Kibber to Tso Moriri and by car it is not motorable. I have not done the trek so can suggest if at all you can take the bicycle there because there could be some steep climbing involved too.
HI Dheeraj,
I am quite confused about the permissions for the following route
Leh – Chang la – Pangong – Chang la – Karu – Chumathang (2 days) – Tso Moriri – Tso Kar – Tanglang la – Leh
Do i need to take any permits for this route…?
In DOW user community they are saying no permits needed ..
https://discoverwithdheeraj.com/india/post10661.html#p10661
No, you do not need any permits as Indian to travel Pangong Tso to Tso Moriri from Chumathang. This is normal route to Tso Moriri.
if any road gown towards manali to tso moriri to leh…..?
Rivu, there is a direct route from Manali to Tso Moriri and then further to Leh. But, You should not do Tso Moriri while going from Manali to Leh because first the taxi from Manali will not be allowed to visit Tso Moriri. Even if you manage Leh taxi or going on your own, then you will not be acclimatized to sleep at such high altitude so early in the trip and may cause some ugly AMS issues for you. Highly not recommended, because any help if required will be very hard to find in case you get hit with AMS.
Hi,
I am eager to try out the Pangong Tso to Tso Moriri lake route. We are planning it as below:
Day 1: Leh to Pangong and overnight stay there.
Day 2: Head to Tso Moriri and back to Leh.
How much time does it take from Pangong to Tso Moriri and then from there to Leh? Does the above plan seem fine?
Pangong Tso to Tso Moriri, itself is 10-11 Hrs. You cannot make it to Leh on the same day as it is 240 KM of mountain roads more from Tso Moriri to Leh. Also, you need permits for this route and even with permits army might not allow you to pass through.
Hi Dheeraj, Need your help, I am coming leh from Sringar route, from nubra valley we decided to go pangong tso directly, please suggest me route, KM, and time. and from pangong tso we want to go tso moriri and exit from sarchu. suggest route for that too.. is it open for bikers (Pangong Tso to Tso Moriri) also. if we go back to leh, we will loose one day and wont be able to visit tso moriri. If its not possible, either from Pangong tso or tso moriri, which one to go for.
Regarding Nubra Valley to Pangong Tso route, in order to take Nubra Valley to Pangong Tso via Shyok village, you need not need any permits. However, with such a small distance it appears tempting to be done BUT just to analyze the difficulty I will strongly suggest that you read:Trip Report | Nubra – Shyok Village – Pangong Tso Route. The report is from last June & in July/August, most likely the route is washed away. So better confirm first, analyze the high risk involved and then only attempt it or better avoid it unless very much sure.
Next possible way is to attempt Wari La route, which is also a bit desolated but doable enough. If your driver agrees to travel on this route then take the Wari La route to Pangong Tso. Remember that any help required on both these routes will be HARD to find in miles of distance. If you have couple of vehicles then only take this route otherwise best is to avoid it.
Regarding Pangong Tso to Tso Moriri route or Pangong Tso to Hanle, the permits to Man – Merak – Chusul – Tsaga or remote Changthang routes are being given by DC office in Leh at ON and OFF basis, so keep your fingers crossed and hope for the best if they start issuing the permits by the time you visit or issue you on your lucky day. Also, even if the permits are given then as well there is no guarantee that you will be allowed to cross Chusul Post or not because last year several such incidents happened and people with permits also had to return via same route. All this will mean that you will have to risk it for at least a day getting wasted if you are not allowed because there will be no guarantee until you cross Chusul and Tsaga post. Otherwise, you have to take the traditional routes only via Leh.
HI Dheeraj,
YOu said permits are not required for indian tourists in first paragraph, but coming down to travel from pangong to tsomori you should take permit by mentioning the route , Does this permit is required?? What all other permits one should take in
and around ladakh ??
Thank you for your contribution on whole ladakh tthings 🙂
Pangong Tso to Tso Moriri is not a general route for tourists, hence, you need permits for that route. Check the detailed article: Permits in Ladakh are not required for Indian Tourists from May 2014
What is d condition of road if we were going through manali-sarchu-pang-tso kar-tso moriri…plz tell me d condition of road after pang from where we have to take a right cut…..
Vishal, road are through and open. In general road conditions are OK just near Baralacha La due to the presence of too much snow the road is narrow.
Hi Dheeraj, compliments on this wonderful sharing that you are facilitating .I came on this site by chance. I have a query is how to plan driving from Manali to Leh with stop over at Tsomoriri ++. We are driving up in a Scorpio, 4 of us and have 2 nights – 3 days….Also what would it cost to do an independent trip from Leh to tsomoriri-leh 3-4 nights in our own car vs a taxi tour. Thanks.
Poonam, You should not do Tso Moriri while going from Manali to Leh because if you are going on your own, you will not be acclimatized to sleep at such high altitude so early in the trip and it may cause some ugly AMS issues for you. Highly not recommended, because any help, if required, will be very hard to find in case you get hit with AMS there and it will take time to descend from there…
Thanks Dheeraj.
Would you know what would be the cost for a trip by a taxi service from Leh -Tsomoriri, back to Leh for a 2 night out trip?
It should be around 12K from Leh to Tso Moriri and return via Tso Kar after two nights. With 1 night, should be around 10K
Hi Dheeraj, I am planning a road trip on my car from Delhi to Leh and back in 8-9 days, I plan to travel by Srinagar while going and coming back from Manali. Is the number of day sufficient and also what other advice you have for us.
These are too less number of days for Ladakh road trip. Make it at least 11-12 days to get at least something of the trip. That too will be kind of hectic only.
I am not getting accommodation in TsoMoriri camp/resort on 22 july. Nomadic is not an option based on the review. Please suggest some other option.
Sorry Partho, I am not aware of any other properties in Tso Moriri 🙁
This may be a repeated question but can I go from Leh to Tsomoriri and be back to Leh within a day? Leave early morning and reach back late at night on the same day.
Note: We will be totally acclamatized by then.
Cheers,
Swati 🙂
Swati, Leh to Tso moriri is 240 odd KMs, takes about 9 Hrs. So, in one day not possible unless you want to touch, come, risk the the drive at dark hours.
Hi Dheeraj, Thanks a lot for help to get Taxi driver’s name and fair from Manali to Leh
Dear Dheeraji,
Kindly post the massage of Taxi driver’s name and fair from Srinagar to Leh.It will help me a lot.
Regards,
P.K.Acharyya
Pranab ji, you can refer the thread for a comprehensive list of drivers: List of Taxi Drivers for Ladakh – Srinagar – Leh – Manali
Best wishes for you Leh – Ladakh trip 🙂
Hello dheeraj
As I am travelling to Leh this June have discussed the initiary in common initiary page I have planned a night vault at pangong and then wish to go from pangong to tsomorie via chusul-nyoma so is it possible for me to reach tsomorie same day when I leave pangong?
Chetan, in case first you get the permits and then if you are allowed through Chusul to pass then you should be able to reach Tso Moriri from Pangong Tso in same day. Just leave by 6-7 AM max to reach in day light.
Dheeraj I think the Leh DC office has realeased a circular that no permits are required for Indian tourist only Id proof shall work……
so I think there should be no issue of permit.
Chetan, here is the detailed article on it: Permits in Ladakh are not required for Indian Tourists from May 2014
Hi Dheeraj,
Me and my friend gng to leh ladakh in the 2nd week of June, will start from Delhi via Srinagar reach Leh and exit through Manali. We have sorted out the route till Nubra and Pangong.
And we want to cover Hanle, Tso Moriri and exit through Leh-Manali highway (with a night stop in each places) but we are worried about the road condition as we will pass by it in the last week of June.
Can you give us some input about the road conditions keeping in mind that its our first trip to Leh-Ladakh region.
Thanks a lot
Cheers
Manna
Manna, road conditions will generally remain same all round the year. They improve almost at the end of season towards September. You can refer: Routes and Road Conditions In Leh – Ladakh | Ladakh Self Drive Tips
I am travelling to Ladhak in early June. The last point of my travel is TSO Moriri lake. I would like to know how I can make my return plan from TSO Moriri to Delhi. Should I have to go to Leh and then catch a flight back to Delhi.
Pradip, if you do not have time, then better go back and take the flight to Delhi from Leh. Else, you can do it like below:
Day 1 | Leh – Tso Moriri via Chumathang
— Cover Karzok Monastery
— Overnight at Karzok or Tso Moriri
Day 2 | Tso Moriri – Tso Kar – Debring (Manali – Leh Highway starts) – Moore Plains – Pang / Sarchu
— Try to start early in the day so that you reach Sarchu where the accommodation options are better than Pang
— Overnight at Sarchu or Pang
Day 3 | Pang / Sarchu – Baralacha La – Keylong – Rohtang Pass – Manali
— On the way cover Suraj Tal, Deepak Tal which are on the road sides only
— Overnight at Manali
Day 4 | Manali – Delhi
— Return
hello and thnx for the lovely write-up and advice…am trying to google from Chumathang to Tso moriri..no luck, maybe dirt roads? shall try and do these lakes someday…cheers!!
Aditya, To get an idea of the routes in Ladakh along with distances, you can refer: DoW – Maps of Ladakh | Nubra Valley & Changthang. Keep in mind that, the remote routes are isolated and completely off track with almost no roads. Better stick to traditional routes in case it is the first trip to Ladakh.
Hi Dheeraj,
After reading all your advises, this is the plan I have come up with. We are flying to Srinagar and planning to go to Kargil and take a ladhaki driver for taxi from Kargil till our trip to Manali. We are 4 members + one 5 year old kid. Can you please give me approx amount for the taxi alone from Kargil to Manali in the month of September .
Friday 12-Sep Reach Srinagar
Saturday 13-Sep Srinagar
Sun 14-Sep Go to Kargil in private buses. – Overnight at Kargil
Mon 15-Sep “Kargil to Leh in a ladhaki taxi , Cover Mulbekh Maitrey, Lamayuru Moanstery, Lunar Landscapes
On the way you can also see Gurudwara Pather Sahib, Magnetic Hills, Confluence at Nimmu
Overnight at Leh. Continue the same taxi upto Manali from Kargil.”
Tuesday 16-Sep Leh local sightseeing; inner line permits
Wednesday 17-Sep Leh- Hunder; overnight stay at Hundar
Thursday 18-Sep Hunder- Leh
Friday 19-Sep Leh- Pangong Tso Lake; overnight at Pangong Lake
Saturday 20-Sep Pangong Tso Lake- Merak – Chusul – Nyoma- Tso Moriri ; Overnight at Tso Moriri lake
Sunday 21-Sep Tso Moriri – Pang ; Overnight at Pang
Monday 2 2-Sep Pang- manali – Start from Manali through some night bus to Delhi
Tuesday 23-Sep Reach Delhi. Rest in Delhi.
Thanks for your help.
Also let me know if the above plan looks good to you.. thank you..
Vidhya, I seriously will not suggest that you make a trip to Tso moriri via chusul with family having small child. Any mechanical failure could prove bad decision over there. I will suggest that you make a day trip to Pangong Tso and do Leh – Tso Moriri or skip Tso Moriri al together and make 2 day trip to Pangong Tso.
Dear Dheerajji,
Kindly inform how much is the yearly/monthly subscription of your blog and how to pay the subscription.
Regards,
P.k.Achryya
Hello Pranab,
Well, there is no subscription fees at all, it is all free. You can register your email address for free using the “SUBSCRIBE VIA EMAIL” option given on the right hand sidebar. All new articles when published will be delivered to your mail box as is 🙂
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
However, I will request that if possible for you then better put the saved money to use for Responsible Travel in Himalayas and support our DoW Causes right there in Ladakh when you travel there. Here is the link which provides all the details on the causes we support in DwD Community: DoW – Causes | A Step Towards Responsible Travel
Dear Jheeraj Ji,
As per your suggation, self with 7 heads visitedKalpa,Nako,tabo,Kunjum pass etc.with out any problem.In 2014 we are 7 again planning to visit Ladakh region via Srinagar. Kindly suggest the followings:
1. Which single car will be most cheap and comfortable for 7 heads for complete journey starts
from Srinagar,Kargil,leh,Numra vally,pangong lake,Tsomariri,sarchu,Manali and end at Chandigarh station for train for Kolkata?
2.1st. week of Sept. is O.K.?
I will follow your suggation regarding Ladakh visit strictly.
Kindly give your valued comments.
Regards,
P.K.Acharyya
Hello Pranab,
Great to know about your Spiti Valley expedition and you r enjoyed it alot.
1. I will suggest that you take up Winger as none of the small cars will suffice 7 people with luggage and that too on such long journey. It will cost you 35% more than the cost of normal MUV taxi. Also, you cannot have a single vehicle for the complete journey because of Taxi union rules which does not allow taxis outside Ladakh to do sightseeing in Ladakh.
2. September is a good time to travel to Ladakh when you see the most beautiful colors. IF you can post pone the trip by a week it will help you find the accommodation on the spot as well and save some money too.
You can check a very balanced and most common itinerary for Leh – Ladakh followed by many travelers including me at the link here for 14-15 days: Most Common Itinerary for Leh – Ladakh.
For accommodation, check the nice, preferred list of accommodation options in entire Leh – Ladakh (Leh, Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso, Tso Moriri) including moderate and cheap budget hotels as well in the series of articles starting on the link here
For the leh – ladakh taxi union rate list 2013-14 including the contacts of some reliable taxi drivers within Leh – Ladakh, check the link here. You can get about 10-12% of discount by directly getting in touch with drivers and of course, talking in person rather on phone always help in bargaining more.
For the list of good restaurants in Leh – Ladakh or eateries or food joints where food is enjoyed by many travellers including me, you can check the link here: List of Good Restaurants in Leh – Ladakh | Restaurant Reviews
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
HI DHEERAJ,
AFTER READING UR BLOGS, COMMENTS & PICS WE ALL DOCTORS FINALLY BOOKED PACKAGE FOR LADAKH AS FOLLOWS , PLZ READ & ADVISE US THAT ANYTHING WHICH IS NOT INCLUDED IN THAT OR ANYTHING U WANT…….
WE R 4 COUPLES WITH 2 KIDS (2YRS OF AGE) WITH 2 INNOVA ……
Travel Date: Reaching Leh 9 June 2014 around 7:30 am.
09th June 2014 / Day 01: Delhi – LehArrival at Leh airport, to be received by our representative and transferred to the Hotel. Check in to the hotel for a complete day of rest wherein welcome tea and coffee will be served by the Hotel. Post lunch visit Leh Market, Leh Palace and Shanti Stupa. O/N Leh.
10th June 2014 / Day 02: Leh – Lamayuru – Ule 180 Kms / 6-7 hrsAfter breakfast drive to Lamayuru enroute visit Liker Monastery, Magnetic hill and Gurudwara Pathar Sahib. Check in Resort / Camp at Alchi or Ule and enjoy your hot Lunch. After Lunch drive to visit the mesmerising Moon landscapes and the Lamayuru monastery (one of the oldest Monastery in central Ladakh) O/N Ule.
11th June 2014 / Day 03: Ule – Leh 72 Kms / 3-4 hrsAfter the Breakfast drive to Leh enroute visit Alchi monastery and Hall of Fame. Arrive at Leh by afternoon. Hot Lunch at Hotel. Evening free time at your leisure. O/N Leh.
12th June 2014 / Day 04: Leh – Pangong Lake 140 Kms / 4-5 KmsAfter Breakfast leave for Pangong Lake 14,500 ft, through Changla Pass 17,350 ft. (third Highest Motorable road in the world) Arrival at Camp, Hot Lunch will be served aat Camp, Later free time at Leisure and enjoy the color changing lake and the sun set on the banks of lake. O/N On the banksof Pangong Lake.
13th June 2014 / Day 05: Pangong Lake – Leh 140 Kms / 4-5 KmsEarly morning enjoy the pictuereque view of Sun rise on lake. After Breakfast drive back to Leh. O/N Leh.
14th June 2014 / Day 06: Leh – Nubra Valley 120 Kms / 4-5 hrsAfter Breakfast drive to Nubra Valley via Khardungla (Highest Motorable road in the World, 18,380 ft) Arrive at Hundur by afternoon. Lunch at Camp, rest of the day one is free to explore Panamik Hot water spring, Deskit, Hunder Villages and camel Safari in Sand Dunes between Deskit and Hunder Village. O/N Nubra Valley.
15th June 2014 / Day 07: Nubra Valley – Leh 120 Kms / 4-5 hrsAfter Breakfast visit Deskit Monastery, where you can have a magnificient view of Nubra Valley and drive back to Leh by same Route, crossing Khardungla Pass. O/N Leh.
16th June 2014 / Day 08: Leh to Tsomoriri Lake 240 Kms / 240 Kms / 7-8 hrsMorning after breakfast drive to Tsomoriri lake (14000 ft abov sea level) by passing Chumathang (Hot Spring) along the Indus river. Tsomoriri Arr. 1600 Hrs. Afterwards take a walk around the Lake to enjoy the scenic beauty. O/N Korzok Village.
17th June 2014 / Day 09: Tsomoriri – Tsokar – Taglangla – Leh 260 Kms / 8-9 hrsMorning after breakfast leave to Leh passing Puga (Sulphur Mine), Tsokar Lake, Taklang La Pass 17,585ft, 2nd Highest motorable road in the world. Arrival at Leh by evening. O/N Leh.
18th June 2014 / Day 10: Leh – DelhiEarly morning transfer to Leh airport to board flight back to destination. Journey ends with Sweet Memories of Ladakh. Tour End
Hotel Used Confirmed:
09th – 10th June 2014 / Leh: Pangong Hotel / Confirmed
10th – 11th June 2014 / Alchi: Zimskhang Holiday Home / Confirmed
11th – 12th June 2014 / Leh: Pangong Hotel / Confirmed
12th – 13th June 2014 / Pangong: Martsemik camp / Confirmed
13th – 14th June 2014 / Leh: Pangong Hotel / Confirmed
14th – 15th June 2014 / Nubra: Stendal Hotel / Confirmed
15th – 16th June 2014 / Leh: Pangong Hotel / Confirmed
16th – 17th June 2014 /Tsomoriri: Tsomoriri Resort (Cottages) / Confirmed
17th – 18th June 2014 / Leh: Pangong Hotel / Confirmed
THANXXXX IN ADVANCE
DR.VIVEK KESHARI
SECRETARY
INDIAN MEDICAL ASSOCIATION
Hello Dr. Vivek,
Itinerary looks fine to me, apart from that the only thing that I would like to change here is that you do Nubra Valley First before Pangong Tso. so, do Nubra Valley tour first then Pangong Tso Lake and finally Tso moriri lake.
Apart from that, just that take ample of rest on Day 1 and keep the body hydrated. You must already know about it 😉 …
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Dear Dheerajji, Sorry of incomplete information.Self will start my trip from Simla.21.9.-Sarhan,22.9-Chitkul 23/24.9-Kalpa,25.26.9-Kaza 26.9 Kaza to manali.If possible from batal to Chandratal by car.Due by health and knee problem could not walk 36 Km.Kindly advise whether by car(Inova) we can visit Chandratal or not and how.I am in full of energy. Regrds, P.K.Acharyya-09331896835,from Kolka.
Pranab ji, roads have not been good so far via Kinnaur and I hope the situation and conditions of the roads might have settled well by now. The above trip is possible and you already have a fair idea of the itinerary. If you want to cover Chandratal then better stay at Losar a day before while move to Manali. This will give you more time at least couple of hours to enjoy at the lake. Road will be open but there is about 2 KMs one side which you will need to trek as road ends 2 KM before. So, it will be 4 KMs of trek but some part of it is quite steep, so in case the problem is of greater magnitude then probably skip Chandratal.
Do not miss on Komik, Langza villages.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Dear Dhirajji,
Again I am calling you after the gap of 4/5 months. I left the idea to visit Leh this year.you know I got my by-pass sugary 2 years back. I contacted my doctor
, he has given green signal to visit Leh accaording to you suggation.Due to some other reason , I left this idea for 2013.I am planning to visit Kalpa/Kaza from simla
Pranab ji, which date are you planning to take the trip to Spiti Valley? What is your starting point? To get quick information, you can quickly walk through the many articles present for Spiti Valley at the link: Articles or Guides for Spiti Valley Travel
Regards
Dheeraj sharma
Thanks Dheeraj for sharing the information about Tsomoriri Lake. Just wondering whether Pangong-Tsomoriri via Chusul is accessible in Late September and permits are available for Indians. Also if you can share the tentative range of cost of Car hire for Leh-Pangong/spangmik(night stay)-Chusul-Tsomoriri/Korzok(night stay)-Leh. Thanks,
Hi Saikat,
It depends totally upon the permits thing, you may get or you may not get. This year these permits are on and off only. So, nothing can be said if you will surely get these permits or not. For the leh – ladakh taxi union rate list 2013-14 including the contacts of some reliable taxi drivers within Leh – Ladakh, check the link here. You can get about 10-12% of discount by directly getting in touch with drivers and of course, talking in person rather on phone always help in bargaining more.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj
I saw that most of the package tours exclude Tso moriri. But after reading your post i wouldn’t want to miss this lake. I am traveling with my wife to leh, my wife is concerned about the safety, as many ppl don’t travel to this place. Thanks in advance.
Hi Shravan,
Before going for the packaged tour, just read some valuable tips along with pros and cons of your own customized tours and packaged tours at the article in out community: Package tour or own customised tour for ladakh?
Regards
Dheeraj
Thank you dheeraj for the immediate reply. I have decided to go for a customized tour of 9days n 8 nights. We would be covering indus zanskar sangam, nubra valley, pangong lake and tso moriri and a couple of monasteries on the way. My wife is apprehensive that if only the 2 of travel in a cab, we might get kidnapped or something bad might happen. That is what I want to know is it safe for a couple to go to tso moriri. many ppl will be there at pangong n nubra as many tour packages offer to take them there. But with tso moriri I am concerned with the safety!!! Thanking you in advance. DoW is an amazing site.
Shravan Ladakh is the SAFEST of places I have been to in my life in terms of human crimes. every single soul is so helpful that words can fell short to explain it. You will always be greeted with lovely smiles no matter what people will be ready to help 🙂
Still, DoW has started an initiative under DoW – Himalayan Travel Community for finding Travel Partners or Companions, leave your message in Travel Partners section at the link: Ladakh & Zanskar – Travel Partners Section. There is also a DoW Travel Calendar linked here which can be used to easily and quickly spot a travel partner with similar dates of all the people looking for Travel Partners for their trips. May be you meet someone online going over the same dates.
Hi Dheeraj,
Thanks for sharing valuable information in your forum. I want to back in Leh from Tso Moriri Lake in a Mahindra Xylo cab on 25 Aug 2013. I want to avail Tso Moriri – Karzok – Sumodo – Tso Kar – Tanglang La -Upshi – Leh route. I want to know –
1. What will be the distance for this route (KM).
2. Can we avail this route with Mahindra Xylo.
3. To avail this route may I require any permit.
4. How much time require to reach Leh through this route from Tso Moriri Lake.
Thanks.
Hrishikesh Chakraborty.
Hi,
1. To get an idea of the routes in Ladakh along with distances, you can refer: DoW – Maps of Ladakh | Nubra Valley & Changthang. Keep in mind that, the remote routes are isolated and completely off track with almost no roads. Better stick to traditional routes in case it is the first trip to Ladakh.
2. Xylo is good enough.
3. Yes, you will need permits.
4. It wil take about 8-9 Hrs to reach Tso Moriri from Leh
Regards
Dheeraj
Thanks Dheeraj.
Actually I want to avial for both the routes –
Leh – Upshi – Mahe – Sumodo – Tso Moriri to reach Tso Moriri
and
Tso Moriri – Karzok – Tso Kar- Tanglang La – Upshi – Leh to return back to Leh
Is it be possible then .
Thanks
Hrishikesh
Yes, Go from Leh to Tso Moriri via Mahe bridge and then come back from Taglang La next day.
Thanks Dheeraj.
Is it be possible to make this trip (Leh to Tso Moriri and back to Leh) in a Single day – Starting from Leh in early morning (5:30 am).
Thanks,
Hrishikesh
VERY VERY tough…. Needs 16+ Hrs for touch and go 🙂 … Better not do it in such a case.
Hi Dhiraj
After going thru’ the internet and writing to tour operators, finally I saw your blog and found it really informative. Inspired by your suggestions on various trips in Ladakh, I have framed a plan for Pangong, Tsomoriri, Nubra Valley to be undertaken during 20th to 30th September, 2013. The plan is as follows:
22/09/2013: Leh – Pangong Lake 140 Kms.
After Breakfast leave for Pangong Lake 14,500 ft, on the way visit Stok, Shey Palace, Thiksey Monastery, Hemis. Arrival at Camp(Pangong). O/N On the banks of Pangong Lake.
23/09/2013: Pangong Lake – Tsomoriri Lake 235 Kms vis Mera, Chusul.
After Breakfast drive to Tsomoriri by the following route:
Spangmik (Pangong Tso) – Man (9 KMs) – Merak (12 KMs)– Khaltse (4 KMs) – Chusul (24 KMs) – Tsaga La (33 KMs) – Tsaga Village (20 KMs) – Loma (23 KMs) – Nyoma (22 KMs) – Mahe (25 KMs) – Sumdo (10 KMs) – Tso Moriri / Korzok (53 KMs) = 235 KMs.
Arrive at Tsomoriri. O/N Tsomoriri, Korzok Village.
24/09/2013: Tsomoriri – Tsokar – Taglangla – Leh 260 Kms / 9-10 hrs
Morning after breakfast leave to Leh passing Puga (Sulphur Mine), Tsokar Lake, Taklang La Pass 17,585ft, 2ndHighest motorable road in the world. Arrival at Leh by evening. O/N Leh.
27/09/2013: Leh – Nubra Valley 120 Kms / 4-5 hrs
After Breakfast drive to Nubra Valley via Khardungla (Highest Motorable road in the World, 18,380 ft) Arrive at Hundur by afternoon. Rest of the day explore Deskit, Hunder Villages and camel Safari in Sand Dunes between Deskit and Hunder Village. O/N Nubra Valley.
28/09/2013: Nubra Valley – Leh 120 Kms / 4-5 hrs
After Breakfast visit Deskit Monastery to have a magnificient view of Nubra Valley and drive back to Leh by same Route, crossing Khardungla Pass. O/N Leh.
We are 2 persons i.e. me and my wife. Please give your views on the above plan and specifically on the route to Tsomoriri from Pangong via Merak, Chususl considering that time of the year i.e. September end.
My night stays at Leh has been already fixed. What will be the cost involvement considering stays and food at Pangong, Tsomoriri, Nubra and travel by exclusive vehicle. Also give your views on type of vehicle to be used.
Above plan is expected to give more time at Leh as the projected dates for Ladakh Festival is 20th to 26th September, 2013 and we are arriving at Leh on 20/09/2013.
Pls give your contact details if possible (email, phn no etc.). It will be of great help.
Brother, is this plan by some agent? I do not see it good. What about dates 21st and 20th?
Dheeraj,
Can you help me in planning the tour. We are 2 persons and we are reaching on 20th Sept and coming back on 30th Sept. Among the other places i.e. Nubra, Pangong, Ule, I would like to go to Tsomoriri.
Yous advice will be of great help.
Raju, are you flying in and out of Leh? If yes, to start with, you can check a very balanced and most common itinerary for Leh – Ladakh by Air followed by many travelers including me at the link here for 8 days: Leh – Ladakh | Most Common Itinerary by Air.
Hi Dheeraj,
We are planning to goto Leh by self driven car (4 adults) this August from New Delhi Via Manali. What should be the best itinerary for this trip. We are planning to cover the most of Ladakh including Tso Moiri.
Thanks
Pratik, check the top 5 most common itineraries and choose your pick from the threads in our community at the link: Common Itineraries for Leh – Ladakh
Thanks Dheeraj. Will update you with final details. Basically what I understand that it is almost impossible to see Tso Moiri Lake in 9 days. And we have 9 days 🙁
Hi Dheeraj,
Is it possible to see the Drogpa villages en route to Kargil?
Pratik.
Pratik, yes very much possible. In that case you need to go through Batalik route from Kargil to Leh or to Kargil from Leh. For Batalik route you need permits for Batalik, Dha, Hanu villages which are given from either Kargil DC Office or Leh DC Office.
To get an idea of the route map of Srinagar – Leh Highway, you can refer: DoW – Maps of Ladakh | Srinagar – Kargil – Leh
So which is a better route?
Kargil via batalik or kargil via Namki La pass?
Thanks Again.
Pratik.
Both of them have their own beauties. If you are going for first time, stick to route via Namki La
Hey bro..
We got Permits for Chusul..
And also done with our trip..
And guess what as you have mentioned and I second…
Yes its the best route of Entire Ladakh Region.. Hurray!!
Excellent. I envy you. We have just returned and were not as lucky. Anyways, there is always a next time.
hi,
excellent info. we are heading to Leh in few days. We have also a foreigner with us. Which route should we take from Pangong Tso to Tso Moriri. I learnt from your blog that foreigners have to take an indirect route. can you please state which route that is.
Thanks in advance.
-Sanjay
Hi Dheeraj:
some more info. We had planned to take Pangong Tso-Upshi-Mahe-Sumdo-Karzok-Tso Moriri-Tso Kar-Debring-Pang-Sarchu route as of now. With a foreigner with us, is this still possible? do we need to change the route? if so, what could it be so that we can still ride together?
BR
-Sanjay
Sanjay, you are following the correct route and you all will be together on this route.
Sanjay, you have to come back to Leh or Karu from Pangong Tso and then take Leh/Karu – Upshi – Chumathang – Mahe Bridge – Sumdo – Tso Moriri route.
Hi Dheeraj,
Compliments again for the good work that you are doing.
Do you think it is possible to reach Jispa from Tso Moriri via Tso Kar on the same day ?
Thanks Dr. Rakesh, Tight it will be but may be possible if you leave early in the morning. Though will not suggest.
Thanks for the quick reply. Much appreciated.
Just completed Delhi-Jammmu-Srinagar-Leh-Manali-Delhi circuit; alongwith excursions to Nubra, Pangong, & Tso Moriri.
I will like to add that Tso Moriri to Jispa in 1 day is pretty comfortable. We left Tso Moriri at around 7.30 in the morning & reached Jispa (via Tso Kar) at around 4.30pm
Thanks a ton for all your support Dheeraj.
That is awesome, glad you had a wonderful time over there in Ladakh. If possible, try and share your Himalayan Travel or Photo Tale or experience with us at DoW – Himalayan Travel Community
Rakesh ji
My planning is similar like you in August last week from DELHI-JAMMU-SRINAGAR-LEH-MANALI-DELHI.Can you provide your mob.no as my family is thinking it is very-2 tiring trip.
Sanjeev Rastogi Ji,
No doubt the trip was long, but the Natural beauty rejuvenated us every time we felt exhausted. Since this road trip is once a life time experience, must do it with family. My cell no. is (0)9899666633. Facebook – Rakesh Sachdeva. Pls feel free to call any time.
Hi Dheeraj.
Just need to ask is there any route which connect Tso moriri to Keylong-leh road. while coming back from Leh I am thinking like Leh-tsomoriri-pang. any possibility?
Yes Shefali and this is how people use to do it
Day 1 | Leh – Tso Moriri via Chumathang
— Cover Karzok Monastery
— Overnight at Karzok or Tso Moriri
Day 2 | Tso Moriri – Tso Kar – Debring (Manali – Leh Highway starts) – Moore Plains – Pang / Sarchu
— Try to start early in the day so that you reach Sarchu where the accommodation options are better than Pang
— Overnight at Sarchu or Pang
Day 3 | Pang / Sarchu – Baralacha La – Keylong – Rohtang Pass – Manali
— On the way cover Suraj Tal, Deepak Tal which are on the road sides only
— Overnight at Manali
Day 4 | Manali – Delhi
Regards
Dheeraj
Thanks for quick reply Dheeraj.
How about if we can cover Leh – Pangong Tso – Tso Moriri – and rest as u advised.
Pangong Tso to Tso Moriri will not be possible because the permits are no longer issued for the direct route.
There seems to be some error in this article. In your article above under the heading “Itinerary” you have mentioned “Spangmik or Lukung” for stay at Tso Moriri. I think these are the places to stay at Pangong Tso & not Tso Moriri. Please pardon me if I am wrong.
Sorry, guess, it ended up being a copy past error. Just corrected it. Yes, you have to stay at Korzok here. I tried to go through it once again as quick read, please let me know in case you feel there is any other error. And again thanks for pointing this one out 🙂
Hi Dheeraj,
We are the final stage of our Ladakh planning for august. We are still confused about the Tso-moriri to Pangong or viceversa route. Can anyone of be done for sure during this august?
If not, we have decided to go to Turtuk & give 1 extra day to Nubra valley & make our Nubra valley trip to 2 nights/3 days.
Can you just confirm us about this doubt we are having, then we’ll be all set up… Thanks dheeraj, waiting for ur reply.
Take 99% chances that you will not get permits for Pangong Tso to Tso Moriri. Go with Turtuk
Hi Dheeraj,
We are planning to visit leh ladakh this june . We are 14 people ( age 28-30).We have hired 3 innovas and we will be driving ourselves. please check our itinerary.
Day 1 (8th jun): delhi to jammu
day 2 : jammu to srinagar/ sonmarg
day3: srinagar/sonmarg to kargil
day 4: kargil to leh
day 5: leh to khardungla/diskit
day 6: back to leh
day 7: leh to pangong tse
day 8 : pangong tse to leh
day 9 : leh to tso moriri
day 10 : tso moriri to jispa
day 11: jispa to manali
day 12 : manali to delhi
Now i have few questions to ask :
1) is it doable in 12 days
2) do we need to book rooms/camps in advance
3) can we go tso moriri directly from pangong? how is the direct route (road conditions etc)
4) where will we find petrol pump if we are coming back from tso moriri to manali
5)should we stay at jispa or sarcu or keylong
6) is it hard to get permit for the direct route from pangong tse to tso moriri
7) can an agent get a permit for us?
Thanks and regards
amit
Hi Amit,
1 + 5. Doable, just make it Tso MOriri to Sarchu and then Sarchu to Manali. Rest looks OK to me. Keep in mind there are no buffer days.
2. Not really if you do not plan to stay at some specific hotel or are ok with searching hotels. I also see you are a big group, so if you want to stay together then better book them in advance else you may end up in scattered locations.
3. Permits highly likely will not be issued.
4. You need to carry the fuel with you from Leh or Karu for covering about 550+ KMs
5. Yes, very hard to get the permits for direct route of Pangong Tso to Tso Moriri
6. Agent can get the permits for you in advance for the above itinerary not for the direct route from Pangong Tso to Tso Moriri
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj,
Thanks for your reply. It would very helpful for our trip. One more thing i would like to ask u. One of our friend is coming directly to leh by flight. Can we take him straight to nubra that day only?
Thanks and regards,
amit
Amit, please do not do that else he might fell severely ill. Best is to let him take couple of days rest and then only take him to Nubra Valley. also, do not plan to take him with you after you come back from Nubra and then to Pangong Tso. He will need some more days to acclimatize to sleep at Pangong Tso.
Good evening,
I plan to doSpangmik (Pangonk Tso) =>Merak => Chusul => Nyoma => Korzok.
I understood that it would be hard to have a permit.
But hard doesn’t mean impossible 🙂
How can I get a chance to obtain this permit?
Thank you in advance.
Kind regards,
Ludovic
Ludovic I believe you are a foreigner. Sorry to say but foreigners are only permitted upto Man – Merak villages and that too this year only. Earlier Spangmik was the point where they can get permits but from this year Man – Merak are also opened for them. So, no chance of getting permit for Chusul
Dear Dheeraj,
Thank you very much for your super fast answer!!!
Yes I’m a foreigner 🙁
I understand that the possible way to go is from Spangmik => Tangtse =>Chemre =>Ubshi =>Tarchitdok =>Chumathang => Korzog.
Is there any place where we can book an hotel / guesthouse / tent on the itinerary?
I checked your EXCELLENT website but didn’t find any info on that.
Thanks a lot for your help 🙂
Ludovic, get in touch with info@offbeatescapes.com and ask for DoW discounts.
Will do.
Thanks for you help 😉
I forget to mention that i am accompanied by a child of 10 years.Can you please give me the latest weather update. will it be comfortable at night stay and suggest precaution to be taken
I am reaching leh from srinagar on 14 th may 13 and planning to visit tsomoriri on 15th . I am accompanied by my family of two. how is the weather their and it will be harsh or bearable, Is it the right time to visit.
Please do not do it!! Your body will not be acclimatized to visit Tso MOriri at that early stage of the trip. Not sure what the plan is and how many days you have.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
PS: Sorry for the delayed response, I was traveling to Spiti Valley for past 10 days.
do we need permit for tso-moriri. if yes what village name should we write in form for purmit. i want to go to nubra, pangong and tso-moriri so tell me name of village for this all.
Hardik, just write: Tso Moriri, Pangong Tso and Nubra Valley. This will take care of everything
Dear Mr. Dheeraj, Kindly suggrenst me. I am of 62 years . Got my by-pass in 2011.I want to visit Leh vis Srinagar Pangong Tso, Tso Moriri and Nubra vally and back to Kolkata via Manali. Now i am full of energy. As such no physical problem. Kinldy suggest me , whether I can visit the above area or not.My mobile No. .Kinldy reply or give a miss call from your mobile. I will call you back.
Thanks,
P.k.Acharyya
Hello Pranab ji,
Well, I am not sure about the impacts of By Pass surgery with High altitude traveling, I will suggest you to talk to some doctor first before you make a dash. In case of any help for planning the trip I would be always happy to revert back and provide all inputs I have for it. Regarding AMS, you are doing in correct way of ascending from Srinagar side and then exploring the places in Ladakh. You must consider the sequence as Nubra Valley then Pangong Tso and then Tso Moriri. This will help you acclimatize in best shape.
Regards
Dheeraj
Dear Dheeraj ji, This year We want to visit.Simla-Kaza/manali.Also to visit Chandratal lake by car.Is is possible to visit Batal to tal by car?I cannot want updown 36 Km.Iam of 62 years.Kinldy suggest and advise.Regards,P.K.Achryya
Pranab ji, which date are you planning to take the trip to Spiti Valley? What is your starting point? To get quick information, you can quickly walk through the many articles present for Spiti Valley at the link: Articles or Guides for Spiti Valley Travel
Regards
Dheeraj sharma
Hi Dheeraj,
I followed your preferred schedule:
https://discoverwithdheeraj.com/how-to-calculate-cost-or-budget-for-leh-ladakh-trip/
This plan is excellent and am working on a similar schedule. I had query about Tso Moriri-Sarchu-Manali route:
On the way back to Manali from Leh, we don’t want to miss Tso Moriri. We’ll be going to Tso Moriri by a private taxi from Leh which we’ll drop at Sarchu and we will stay at Sarchu. How easily will we get public vehicle to go back from Sarchu to Manali? How is the frequency of such transport? Is it preferable and safe when we’re going with family?
Hi Ashwin,
These are not villages rather just tented colonies for adventure camps. You will not get any public transport there and the private taxi you have to take upto Keylong if not Manali. From Keylong, being head quarter of Lahaul, you will be able to find either Shared taxi to Manali or public HRTC bus as well.
Regards
Dheeraj
Dear Dheeraj
Can Swift Dzire can make it to Tso Moriri especially last 50 KM.
Secondly Tso Moriri – Tso Kar – Manali Highway can be done in Dzire safely.
Thanks a Lot.
Shekhar, it is a bit difficult brother but does not mean that it cannot make it. With careful and skilled driving you will be able to make it but not to forget that there will be places where you may not have a choice than to sacrifice some scratch in the under belly of the car. I will strongly suggest that you go through and read my series on Ladakh Self Drive tips at the links below:
7 Useful Tips for a Self Drive to Leh – Ladakh, Routes and Road Conditions In Leh – Ladakh | Ladakh Self Drive Tips, Fuel Availability In Leh – Ladakh | Ladakh Self Drive Tips
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Dear Dheeraj
I have gone through your articles & they are really superb.
How do you compare last 50 KM of Tso Moriri route & Tso Moriri To Manali Highway route with Gramphu-Manali stretch.I have driven Dzire on this route.
Hello Shekhar,
Well, yeah the experience is quite different though a bit similar. The road ahead of Sumdo on either side towards Tso Moriri as well as towards Tso Kar and Manali Leh Highway is almost in very bad shape but manageable when you compare to Gramphu to Manali stretch. That stretch is just horrible, especially 8-10 KMs of either side of Rohtang Pass. In fact, it is the most troublesome point for the past few years on the whole Ladakh journey. It is commendable to read that you did it in dZire 🙂
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
if we go direct from tso moriri to manali we will mis tangla pass and suraj tal ? and other thing we miss by this road ? and what about road condition from leh to tso moriri and tso moraiai to manali, >
Hardik, You will miss Taglang La but you will not miss Suraj Tal. Nothing else you will miss but you will then see Tso Kar lake too 🙂 … Leh to Tso Moriri, is mostly good apart from last 50 KMs which is more like a dirt track. Tso Moriri to Manali is much like the same dirt track only.
Me and my husband are travelling to Leh in July with the Tour operator and need some help from you.
My itinerary is as follows :
Day01 Arrive Leh
Ladakh. Acclimatize.
Day02 In Leh Shanti Stupa Sankar Gompa monastery, Leh Pal ace.
Day03 On t o Nubra Valley
Day04 On t o Leh : Khardungla Pass 39 kms f rom Leh.
Day05 I n Leh : Alchi, Sangam – Confluence,Magneti c Hill ,
Day06 On t o Pangong
Overnight st ay in Pangong.
Day07 On t o Leh
Enrout e visit Hemi s Monastery Stok Pal ace,
Day08 Depart Leh * Ret urn home wit h happy memories
Today bid f arewell t o your ‘Ladakh Del i ght’ t our, as you are t ransf erred t o Leh airport f or your onwards journey.
Now, I have couple of queries :
1. I want to include the Tso-morir lake in this. Is there any way we can add it?
2. I am planning to go to Tsomoriri on day 8 instead of boarding flight and then take Tso-moriri Manali or Tso-moriri Srinagar route? Out of these 2 which route is better and how much time it`ll take to reach any of these destinations?
3. Also, if we are going on our own to Tsomorir, which all permits we will have to get as rest all permits will be taken by tour operator? And how much this Leh-Tso Morir- manali can cost us?
4. Do you see any problem with this travel/Itinerary?? Also advise how much above tour will cost us?
Hi Madhu,
You have 8 days and to start with all your queries, why don’t you give a try to this itinerary: Leh – Ladakh | Most Common Itinerary by Air
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi,
I’m planning a visit to Leh Ladakh next month (March) around 13th. I want to do Tso Moriri and Lake Pangong for sure. I read in one of your early answers that one has to book the guesthouse in
Chumathang or home stays in Korzok. So how do I organise this? is there a telephone number/mail to contact for such a stay? I live in Bombay.
Thanks
Priyanka, March is way off season and it will be extremely cold. You will not get any accommodation at Pangong Tso or Tso Moriri and both lakes will be frozen!! Are you planning to see both frozen lakes?
Actually that’s the only time I have holidays! and i’m accustomed to very cold weather as I have spent a lot of time in European winters. So if both lakes are inaccessible, what would you suggest as a good plan for this time of the year?
Priyanka, it is not just about cold rather about High Altitude with such conditions as well. Even people staying ages in alps go for a toss in Ladakh. Nevertheless, locals will also not suggest to stay at these places at that time of the year. I was there in April last week, last year and even a single soul was not present and one of the friends who stayed a previous night in his own camps had to look for some shelter at night and then he pitches the tent inside that shelter and barely able to sleep whole night 🙂 … Lake will be accessible but they will be frozen. Would you want to see them as frozen or with colors for which they are known for?
Hi Priyanka,
Me and my wife visited leh ladakh in 2011 july end. It was summer time there and the tsomoriri lake was not frozen and it was very beautiful. We spent a night in camp near the lake. It was very cold at night.The water was freezing cold.
Hi Dheeraj, I am planning to visit Tso moriri, Pangong and Zanskar around 19th Dec 2012. Are these places accessible by Taxi during this time? Also if tens are open in Dec to stay near the lake. My trip is mostly for winter photography. I have been there last year in Summer.
Hi Ananad,
Are you flying to Leh? Roads to Leh are closed and if you fly to Leh then except Zanskar you will be able to visit both PAngong Tso and Tso Moriri as they are accessible all round the year but with least stay options only limited to homestays. Tents will not be present near the lake. At Pangong Tso, you will need to stay at Tangste and make trip in day time there and at Tso Moriri, you might get a homestay option in Korzok or visit the lake and come stay at Chumathang Guest House.
If it snows heavily then Chang La might close down for a day or two.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
NO, ITS NOT POSSIBLE TO GO … DURING SUMMER ONLY IT IS POSSIBLE TO GO OVER THERE AND THERE ARE NO TAXI SERVICE TO GO OVERTHERE.. RENT A BIKE FROM LEH.. OR RENT A CAR FROM LEH.. ANY THING FROM LEH IS BETTER
Hi Srinivas,
If you reach Leh by air, the in roads in Ladakh are open all round the year barring few days of heavy snowfall.
Regards
Dheeraj
We are planning to do Leh-Tso Moriri-Kibber-Kaza-Manali in Sep, just wonder if the plan is doable?
few questions :
1. How can i get Kibber/Ki/Kaza from Tso Moriri?
2. Any tent rental in Tso Moriri Area or we need to bring our tent?
Any advices?
Hi Jolin,
There are some options available at Tso Moriri for tents, so you need not bring your own. For accommodation, check the nice, preferred list of accommodation options in entire Leh – Ladakh (Leh, Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso, Tso Moriri) including moderate and cheap budget hotels as well in the series of articles starting on the link here
Are you planning to trek this route (Tso Moriri to Kibber)or want to travel by road in a taxi?
Regards
Dheeraj
Hi Dheeraj ,I have 3 questions: .
1) Is it possible to stay at Karu or Upshi while going from Pangong to Tso moriri. 2) Which route is better,through Mahe bridge or through Tso Kar?3) Can I go through one and back through another? If I do so, should I mention it while making the permit?
Regards
Chand, which month are you planning this journey?
I am planning to go in the month of April next year
Hello Chand,
In the month of April, chances are Tso Moriri will be frozen and so as Pangong Tso. There is no place to stay at Karu or Upshi, better stay at Chumathang which has a guest house. From Tso Moriri you can directly go to Pangong Tso or you can halt for one night at Hanle and then go to Pangong Tso. It can be done in either direction the way you want to start. If you are going via Pangong Tso then you need to stay at Tangste. Getting permits if difficult for that route but since it is off season you might get them in April. You will need to write Pangong Tso – Man – Merak – Chusul – Tsaga – Loma – Nyoma – Tso Moriri – Hanle.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Regards
Dheeraj
Hi,
Are there any local transport from leh – tso moriri lake? We are planning to come back to leh on the same day. is it possible?
Regards
Anand
Hi Anand,
There might be a local transport but that would be like once or twice a week only. And Tso Moriri cannot be done in a single day.
Regards
Dheeraj
Hey Dheeraj,
This blog goes a ton in helping us pan for ladakh and you are really generous for all the replies.
I am planning to visit Ladkah in September. I needed your inputs on few things.
1. is visiting Leh/Ladakh in around sptember 16 too late with the roads to changla and khardungla closed.
2. I plan to go to Leh and then bargain a taxi for the entire trip. do the taxis agree to do do Nubra to Pangong and Pangong to Tso Moriri
3. we are a couple, as i understand we can get other fellow travelers easily to share ride with us. Just wondering if anyone would like to share the whole trip with us
Thks,
Arunav
Hello Arunav,
1. It should be OK by mid-September and roads within Ladakh are kept open throughout the year barring few days of blockages due to snowfall.
2. They will agree to do so but you will need permits for these routes which are not being issued as of now and may be in September when off-season starts, the permits would be issued again.
3. Hmm.. it is tricky one and even it might get difficult to get travelers in lean season for the non-traditional route you are planning to take. Hence, most likely, you might need to follow the traditional routes only to share the taxi cost with others.
I hope this helps. Let me know incase you need more info. or have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
hey Arunav, me & my wife are reaching leh on 28th August. We are ok sharing car with like minded people. If you are intrested please let me know.
Hi Dheeraj,
Excellent blog i must add.. a couple of my frens (3 in all) are planning to do the Manali-Leh-Nubra-Pangong-Leh-Alchi-Lamayuru-Kargil-Sonmarg-Srinagar circuit.. Wanted suggestions..
The dates are between 25th Aug – 5th Sept 2012.
Day Itinerary
Day 1 Blore – Chd (by air)
Day 1 Chd – Manali (by bus)
Day 2 Reach Manali – Rest ( not interested in Manali coz already covered last time)
Day 3 Rohtang – Sarchu (By Taxi – Pvt number)
Day 4 Sarchu – Leh
Day 5 Leh town (ILP and local sights)
Day 6 Leh Nubra, Diskit,Hunder
Day 7 Hunder to Pangong
Day 8 Pangong to Leh
Day 9 Leh – Alchi / Lamayuru
Day 11 Lamayuru – Kargil
Day 12 Kargil to Srinagar via Sonmarg
Day 13 Srinagar to Blore (by Air)
Thanks in advance
Hello Paddy,
The plan looks fine to me and I hope you get the direct route from Nubra Valley to Pangong Tso open for you via Shyok Village or DC office start issuing permits for Wari La route. But, most importantly, I will suggest you that please plan it in other direction as going via Srinagar – Leh Highway will be much much easier on your body and help you acclimatize to the high altitude of Manali – Leh Highway. Also, it allows you to enjoy the beauty of Manali – Leh by splitting the journey almost evenly in two days which is very difficult in the other direction. Thirdly, it will allow you to fit Tso Moriri lake into the itinerary in better way. You can read more reasons on the link here
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj,
We have some additional changes taking place from what we originally thought of..
Date Day Itinerary
26-Aug Day 1 Bangalore – Delhi
27-Aug Day 2 Delhi – Leh – Obtain Permits – aclimatize – evening local market – Shanti Stupa
28-Aug Day 3 Leh – [Lamayuru – Hangroo Loops] Optional – Alchi – Likir – [Gurdwara Pathar Sahib – Magnetic Hill] Optional – Leh
29-Aug Day 4 Leh – Shey – Karu – Shakti – Chang La – Durbuk – Tangtse – Lukung – Spangmik (Pangong Tso)
30-Aug Day 5 [Spangmik – Phobrang – Marsimek La – Spangmik] Optional – lukung – Tangtse – Durbuk – Chang La – Shakti – Karu – Hemis – Shey Palace – Stok Palace Museum – Leh
31-Aug Day 6 Leh – Phyang – Khardung La – Phyang – Leh – Evening at Leisure
01-Sep Day 7 Leh – Karu – Upshi – Tanglang La – More Plains – Pang – Lachulung La – Nakee La – Gata Loops – Sarchu
02-Sep Day 8 Sarchu – Bharatpur – Baralacha La – Darcha – Jispa – Keylong – Tandi – Kokhsar – Rohtang Jot – Manali
03-Sep Day 9 Manali – Chandigarh
04-Sep Day 10 Chandigarh – Bangalore
Had a few questions :
1) Would you recommend Marsimek La and would we be able to receive permits with ease.. planning on renting a 4*4 scorpio or other from leh. Would the drivers dare to tame the mighty la. ?
2) We would love to do a manali via tsomoriri (3 days trip).. would you be able to tell me which areas enroute have a STD dialing facility or bsnl postpaid coverage. Its highly critical for us to call the family atleast once a day.. I am aware that once we leave leh.. the next fone lines are available at keylong.
3) Is it possible to do, khardungla , alchi, likir in one day… this is only if we intend to accomodate the return trip covering tsomoriri.
Thanks in advance for your help.
Hi Paddy,
1. The drivers might dare to do so but you need to search them a bit. Also, I do not think you have time to attempt Marsimik La and get back to Leh that very day.
2. I do not think there is anything in between. Phones were not working at Tso Moriri when I was there this spring but upto Chumathang there were signals in BSNL . From Tso Moriri to Darcha/jispa/Keylong I do not think you will be able to find any phone signal. Guess there is one phone at Pang Transit camps, somewhere read, but not sure if the army guys would allow you to call or not. You can cover this one using the Day 6.
3. I think so, you can do that if you leave early morning and spend OK amount of time at these places, not too much.
I hope this helps. Let me know incase you need more info. or have any queries or doubts.
Sorry for the delayed reply.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi! Our plan is to visit TsoMoriri while riding from Sarchu to Leh, i.e. tent at TsoKar, ride to TosMoriri early morning and then ride ahead to Leh. Will we require a Permit in that case?
Hello Puneet,
You cannot do Tso Moriri while going from Manali to Leh because one need permits to visit Tso Moriri and these permits are issued at DC office in Leh. Even if you arrange these permits in advance somehow then taxi from Manali will not be allowed to visit Tso Moriri. Even if you manage Leh taxi or going on your own, then you will not be acclimatized to sleep at such high altitude so early in the trip and may cause some ugly AMS issues for you. Highly not recommended.
Regards
Dheeraj
Thanks for the input Dheeraj.
Actually we are riding Bulllets, and plan to ride upto TsoKar, tent there and spend the night. Next day early morning, ride to TsoMoriri from the other side and not Karzok. Few of my friends did it with a Ladakhi's taxi in 2010 and didnt have to cross any post. TsoKar-Punga-'a short cut'-TsoMoriri's Northern tip. We're trying to get permits faxed to use before starting. What do you advice, is it doable? We wont be staying overnight at TsoMoriri.
Hi Punit,
Yes, the checkpost is just before the Korzok village, so in that case you can of course, visit the lake and return back from there but you might be questioned at Mahe bridge if the guy manned at that post catches you. I do not see latter part much of a concern though. What I am not sure is that how you guys will cope up with the acclimatization part at Sarchu and Tso Kar.
My final advice would certainly be, if anyone of you do not feel alright at Sarchu (in case you are planning to stay overnight there) then PLEASE DO NOT go over and sleep at Tso Kar, it might worsen the situation for the guy who was ill a day before.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Thank you so much Dheeraj.
On your suggestion, we are carrying an alternate plan. If we feel any hint of AMS at Sarchu or before TsoKar, we’ll ditch the current plan and visit TsoKar-TsoMoriri later in trip.
Thanks again bhai, would keep visiting and troubling you before the trip (and ofcourse after it too) 🙂
All the very best for a wonderful trip to Ladakh, Punit 🙂
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
dear dheeraj
I am 63 and have done the shimla -sangla-nako- tabo-kaza-kunzam pass-manali-delhi two years back in hyundai accent diesel.
It most exciting and thrilling to drive and admire raw nature.
I had then decided to do the del-srinagar-leh-manali-del circuit and the time has come now.i am planning to drive in the same car with my wife end august/early september.
Your 14day itenary for the above
suits me well.
I want you laet me know from where i can get a roadmap for ladhak showing all the tourist spots as mentioned in your exhaustive blog.
I bought a j&k rad mapof (ttk publication)which is insuffienct.
My son will join me atsrinagar and fly back from leah after the tour.
I will drive back leh-manaliwith my wife.I need your guidance on the unpredictable nallahs between pang and manali and how bad theyare.Otherwise i dont mind retracing via srinagar though i will still love to do leh-manali.
My drive from kaza-kunzam-rohtang was a thrilling experience.
I could not make it to chandratal as an Innova was struck in treacherous nallah 1kmbefore chandratal.I was a bit apprehencive about the infamous Rani Nallah But I manged to cross it.We literally drove on thestoney river bed for quite a distance.Ihad to replace the front suspension of mycar on my return costing me a bomb.
Hence your best guidance is needed for pang -rohtang.
regards
venkatraman
Hello Mr. Venkatraman,
You will definitely face challenges for sure on Manali – Leh Highway and may be somewhat of similar difficulty that you would have faced between Kunzum Pass and Manali plus the famous Malling Nalla (not sure if it was in full glory when you made the trip :)) … Zingzing Bar nallah is the most difficult one and rest are manageable with cautious driving. Better, to cross these Nallas in early morning when water is less in them.
For hatchback/sedan taking on Manali – Leh Highway and Ladakh, I will say:
You will indeed face few tough challenges on the route. The hatchback/sedan will increase the level of every challenge even further, sedan is the worst candidate. My suggestion will be to go via Srinagar route as it will help you feel comfortable with the driving, provide more acclimatization and then once you have done the local Leh-Ladakh, then come back via Manali side. Secondly, since you are in hatch/sedan, then you need to drive with extra care as well. There will be some sections on the Manali – Leh highway in which you might need to sacrifice some scratches on the underbelly. Just make sure you do not bump the engine sump (know it before where it is placed in your car). You need to protect it all around the trip. Thirdly, whenever in doubt do not rush into the section rather park aside and feel the section with your foot, see how other vehicles are crossing it and make a planned route in your mind to cross that section. At the very least do carry Mseal, quick fix, funnel, jerry cans and towing rope with you all the time.
Also, I will strongly suggest that you go through and read my series on Ladakh Self Drive tips at the links below:
7 Useful Tips for a Self Drive to Leh – Ladakh, Routes and Road Conditions In Leh – Ladakh | Ladakh Self Drive Tips, Fuel Availability In Leh – Ladakh | Ladakh Self Drive Tips
I have emailed you the map for Ladakh.
I hope this helps. Let me know incase you need more info. or have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
PS: Sorry, for the delayed response, was offline for last few days.
Hi Dheeraj, we are three of us travelling from Mumbai..here is our detailed plan, going to be a long road trip using a private cab:
Day 1 ; Reach Srinagar from Mumbai, then to Sonmarg
Day 2 : Sonmarg to Alchi –
Day 3 : River Rafting and then proceed to Leh –
Day 4 : Leh to Nubra Valley –
Day 5 : Nubra Valley to Leh –
Day 6: Leh to Pangong & Back to Leh
Day 7 : Leh to Tsomoriri
Day 8 : Tsomoriri to Sarchu –
Day 9 : Sarchu to Manali –
Day 10 : Departure from Manali –
Planning to travel in Mid- August. Looking at the trip mostly by road, do you think it is too hectic? Any suggestions from your end?
Regards..
Hello Jay,
Well, firstly do the first two days as: Sonamarg to Lamayuru and then Lamayuru to Leh. Skip the rafting part. It would not anything but might add AMS trouble doing it so early with less acclimatized body and also forcing you to travel more. So, better enjoy the journey. Secondly, in order to move to Nubra Vally on Day 4, you will have to get the permits done in advance through some travel agent or hotel in Leh.
I hope this helps. Let me know incase you need more info. or have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
I am planning to go to Tso Moriri from Pangong Tso via the Changthang route (Merak – Chusul – Nyoma). You have written that this is one of the most beautiful routes. But I just read in some of your posts that the dc office in leh is not issuing permits for these villages currently. So what route would you suggest. I would love to roughly stick to the same route and bypass the restricted villages.
Please help me out!
Regards,
Abhishek
Hi Abhishesk,
Yes, as of now the permits are not being issued for Changthang route via Chusul. So, from Pangong Tso you have to go back to Leh and then for Tso Moriri you have to go via Chumathang from Leh.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Is this the route you are suggesting?
Spangmik – Lukung (16 KMs) – Tangtse (34 KMs) – Durbuk (9 KMs) – Chang La (32 KMs) – Sakti (34 KMs) – Karu (10 KMs) – Upshi (13 KMs) – Kumdok (19 KMs) – Kere (53 KMs) – Chumathang (34 KMs) – Mahe (22 KMs) – Sumdo (10 KMs) – Korzok or Tso Moriri(53 KMs) = 339 KMs
And which route are you currently taking for getting to Tso Moriri?
On an unrelated note, can you give me a list of places you would suggest to rent a bike in leh where we could get pulsars, not royal enfields and the bike would not have many problems.
Hello Dhiraj sir!
Thanks a lot fo r replying to so many queries and helping all. 🙂 just want to know traveling ALONE over bike from leh to pangong, tsomoriri and nubra is safe or not? Also from pangong to nubra is ok with bike or shall I rest at leh
from where to hire bike for zanskar valley?
With Thanks &
Regards
Swapnil k
Hello Swapnil,
You will not be alone brother on the traditional routes as there are quite a large number of tourists who plly on these roads everyday in season time. Hence, do not worry much about that as you will surely get company or two while riding. Both routes from Pangong Tso to Nubra direct are very isolated few people travel over it including very few locales, so help is hard to find if required. I will suggest you avoid it while traveling alone, rather go back to Leh and start by traditional route only.
You have to hire the bike from Leh only and return them to Leh if you want to visit Zanskar. It will take three days to reach Padum from Leh as Leh – Kargil, Kargil – Rangdum, Rangdum – Padum. Then, Padum – Kargil and Kargil – Leh. So, you will get about half a day's sightseeing in Padum when you reach or else increase a day more for Zanskar.
You can rent bikes in Leh and Fort Road in Leh is full of such shops that rent bikes. Depending upon the condition, model, make and tourist rush you can get bikes starting from Rs 600 to Rs 1200.
I hope this helps. Let me know incase you need more info. or have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj,
Opting for the Leh-Tso moriri route via Kumdok-Mahe are there any check-points on the way we need to mention on the permit request or just mention Tso-Moriri?
Hi Laukik,
It is Mahe – Sumdo I guess you are talking about. If yes, then you need to mention only Tso Moriri. You need to submit one permit copy at Mahe before you cross the bridge and then you need to submit the permit copy once you reach Tso Moriri just before the Korzok Village.
I hope this helps. Let me know incase you need more info. or have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi,
We are visiting leh on June 28th, the itinerary goes as:
day 1 – leh, day 2 – leh to alchi/basgo, Day 3 – leh to nubra, day 4 – nubra to pangong, day 5 – pangong to chumathang, day 6 – chumathang to tso moriri, day 7 – tsomoriri to leh, day 8 – flight back home.
We are two of us and will be travelling in a hired car. Please suggest if this is a good itinerary(hectic or not). How much will a taxi cost us for this whole trip.Can we arrange passes on our own on the day 1, when we reach leh – its a thrusday.
Hi Tanu,
You are traveling too much I will say. I will suggest something like below:
Day 1 | Delhi – Leh (By Flight)
— Checkin at Hotel. Many hotels provide free pick and drop from Airport. Ask while you book them.
— Take ample of rest as well as water or anything that keep your body hydrated enough. DO NOT OVER HYDRATE. Take ORS Soluted water or ORS – L tetra packs from home.
— Do not over exert your body at any cost. Avoid too much up-down on stairs or avoid it in entirety, if possible.
— After 5-6 Hrs of rest you can visit Leh Palace, Local Leh market, Shankar Gompa .
— If you feel exerted go back to Hotel, have dinner at Hotel and take rest. Avoid any exertion. Else continue and,
— Follow the sunset by stroll at Changspa road and have a nice dinner on varied cuisines offered in-around Changspa road.
— Go back to hotel for overnight stay at Leh.
Day 2 | Leh Local Sighseeing + Inner Line Permits
— For more details on inner line permits process and to download application form read the link here:
— Hire a taxi from Leh taxi stand or Hotel whichever suits you.
— Bargain hard with taxi driver. Book that single taxi for entire trip after explaining the complete plan.
— Take his inputs if you feel reasonable and if required modify the plan accordingly but should suits you best.
— Ask him to be with you guys starting first day itself, if required and charged reasonable else do it at your own.
— Again DO NOT over exert and take little steps and slow walks only.
— If feeling OK then do Local sightseeing include Namgyal Gompa, Leh Palace, Shanti Stupa, Shankar Gompa, Main Market, Hall of Fame, Spituk Gompa, Changspa Road Stroll in evening
— Do not use stairs at any of these places just to see them as it will exert your body much more.
— Overnight at Leh
Day 3 | Leh – Khardung La – Diskit – Hunder
— Head for Nubra Valley and stay overnight at Hunder / Diskit
— On the way enjoy a cup of soup at Highest Motorable Pass (as claimed) Khardung La
— Diskit has monasteries with tallest lord Buddha statue and Hunder has sand dunes and bacterian camel safari
Day 4 | Hunder / Diskit – Sumur – Panamik – Sumur – Khardung La – Leh
— Sumur has a famous monastery to check out and Panamik has hot water springs
— Overnight at Leh
Day 5 | Leh – Hemis Monastery – Pangong Tso Lake
— Cover either of Hemis, Thicksey and Shey on the go towards Pangong Tso
— Overnight at Pangong Tso (Spangmik or Lukung)
Day 6 | Pangong Tso Lake – Thicksey Monastery – Shey Palace – Leh
— Cover either of Hemis, Thicksey and Shey on return to Leh
— Overnight at Leh
Day 7 | Rest day at Leh to enjoy local culture and some shopping or you can do tour to Sham Valley
— Sham Valley include Alchi, Likir, Basgo Palace, Magnetic Hills, Confluence at Nimmu, Gurudwara Pather Sahib
— Overnight at Leh
Day 8 | Fly back
For the current leh – ladakh taxi union rate list 2012-13 including the contacts of some reliable taxi drivers within Leh – Ladakh, check the link here. You can get about 12-15% of discount by directly getting in touch with drivers and of course, talking in person rather on phone alwayshelp in bargaining more.
I hope this helps. Let me know incase you need more info. or have any queries or doubts.
Regards,
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj
Thanks for your reply.
could you please tell me how much time it approximately takes while going Tso Moriri from Pangong via chusul-loma-Nyoma and not going to hanle in between?
I am not considering going to hanle as i found stay options are very limited there. (IS this correct?)
Thanks
Regards
Chandan Gupta
Hi Chandan,
Yes stay is very limited at Hanle. Pangong Tso to Tso Moriri will easily take about 12 or more bumpy hours of drive/ride.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Contd from last comment..
I am interested in this route as you have mentioned that it is (pangong-chusul-Nyoma-Tso Moriri) one of the most beautiful drives of ladakh.
Thanks and regards
Chandan Gupta
Hi Dheeraj
I am following your blog since last few days and its very informative and has been managed in beautiful way.
I am planning to go ladakh in september and i have sufficient time in hand to follow the 'most common itinerary' mentioned by you. But then i came across this pangong lake to Tso Moriri route via chusul, nyoma which is remote and bit less travelled route as mentioned by you.
My question is: what do you advice Leh-pangong-chusul-Nyoma-Tso Moriri-Manali or Leh-Pangong-Leh-chumathang-Tso Moriri-Manali?
Is this route pangong(spangmik)-chusul-Nyoma-Tso Moriri doable in one day?
Thanks
Regards
Chandan Gupta
Hi Chandan,
Pangong Tso to Tso Moriri via Chusul is doable in a day but will be very long and hectic and you will not enjoy the beauty very much. Better halt that at Hanle and then again continue ahead of Hanle via Chumur to Tso Moriri or come back to Loma and join the road to Tso Moriri again the next day. You will really enjoy the route in this way. At any day, if you are comfortable with long, bumpy rides with exemplary beauty I will suggest this route only.
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hey dheeraj …
Finally June has arrived and as first timers we are all too excited. As always need your hand to walk along ….
Although we are planning to do
Leh nubra via khurdungla
then next day nubra to pangong Tso via shyok village since I read some where in your blog that the drive is pretty scenic and
then finally pangong tso to tsomoriri via the direct route. We plan to cover this on day to day basis. Would this get a little too hectic since we are planning this just for the sake of shortage of time and we don't wanna miss the fun of seeing the place.
However At the same time we are confused if we should be making it comfortable rather then hectic by touching all the places inspite of enjoying the places
Ur advice would be real icebreaker … Since we will alter out itinerary accordingly …
Cheers ujjwal
Regards
Ujjwal
Hi Ujjwal,
The Shyok route is most scenic but most vulnerable to landslides and dangerous too. The isolation is such that you may not find anyone on the entire route. So, any help required, you guys are on your own. We had to spend about 2 hrs almost to get our car out of the sand where it got stuck. Every time we had to put jack, dig the sand out from below, place stones and then push the car towards road. It took 7 healthy attempts when we were finally on road 🙂 … At few sections stones were falling, I was removing and them from front and driver was driving the vehicle 😉 …
Coming back, this will get hectic as I believe. Pangong Tso to Tso Moriri is all dirt track with lots of bumps. Tough and long drive. Better return to Leh from Pangong Tso I will say and keep Tso Moriri and this Changthang route for next trip. Cover Manali – Leh Highway at ease.
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj,
I was planning to take the following route Leh-Pangong Tso-Tso Moriri-Leh(About 650km).
Had some queries for you.
If we take this route can you confirm me if we need to mention the below placed in the permit?
Pangong Tso,Man,Merak,Khaltse,Chusul,Tsaga La,Tsaga Village,Loma,Nyoma,Mahe,Sumdo,Tso Moriri.
How long would it take to reach Tso Moriri from Pnagaong Tso via Chusul-Loma? about 6-7 hrs
Thanks in advance
Hi Laukik,
Yes, mention: Man – Merak – Chusul – Tsaga – Loma – Nyoma (for Pangong Tso to Tso Moriri) and Hanle (if plan to visit Hanle too). It will take I guess about 10+ Hrs to reach Tso Moriri from Pangong Tso. Depends how much break you take.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
hi dheeraj,
from pangong tso to tso moriri where can we take brack from night and what is the distance from pangong to that place and from that place to tso moriri and what will be the optain for night stay
Hardik, it will be really diffcult that you will get the permits for Pangong Tso to Tso Moriri route. For more details on the distance and road conditions, check the article:
Hi,
I am looking forward to this years bike trip to Leh. Attempted it two years back during the same days, got caught at Kaza due to heavy snow fall. Finsihed the Leh visit last year by air. But the high of going by bike ( Teo of us in two bikes) has to be experienced. Hence again a schedule is made. We are from Bangalore and intedn to start the ride from Delhi. Not keen on Nubra, Hunder and Tsomoriri as already covered last year. Would be obliged fro your remarks and reccomendations about the itenary.
Regards
Date Day Journey Details Stay Details Distance
07-06-2012 Book the bike by train – Karnataka Express – Private –
09-06-2012 Saturday Bangalore – Delhi by Indigo morning flight
Delhi – Pathankot Pathankot 470
10-06-2012 Sunday Pathankot – Sonamarg Sonamarg 436
11-06-2012 Monday Sonamarg Sonamarg 0
12-06-2012 Tuesday Sonamarg – Leh Leh 373
13-06-2012 Wednesday Leh spare day Leh 0
14-06-2012 Thursday Leh – Pangontso – Leh Leh 370
15-06-201216-06-2012 Friday Leh – Khardungla – Leh – Vehicel service Leh 80
16-06-2012 Saturday Leh – Srachu Sarchu 250
17-06-2012 Sunday Sarchu – Kaza Kaza 290
18-06-2012 Monday kaza – Local – Vehicle service Kaza 50
19-06-2012 Tuesday kaza – Local Kaza 50
20-06-2012 Wednesday Kaza – Kalpa Kalpa 200
21-06-2012 Thursday Kalpa – Chandigarh Chandigarh 326
22-06-2012 Friday Chandigarh – Delhi – Load the bikes in private – train Delhi 250
23-06-2012 Saturday Delhi – Bangalore Morning Flight
Hi Amar,
Great to know about yor passion buddy. My 2 cents:
1. Sonamarg to Leh is very long. do it like Sonamarg – Kargil, Kargil – Leh or Sonamarg – Lamayuru, Lamayuru – Leh
2. Sarchu – Kaza seems tough too, try to leave early from Sarchu, very early I will say. The terrain after Gramphu is no road and tough ride. It takes lot of time to reach Kaza from Keylong itself, and you adding Sarchu – Keylong as well. I guess you will be better halting at Khoksar and then next day may be start from Khoksar cover Chdnratal on the way and reach either Losar or Kaza same day.
3. Do not do Kaza local twice. Do Kaza – Pin Valley – Tabo the next day and then Tabo to Kalpaseeing Nako Lake and Geyu Mummy on the way.
4. For Kalpa – Chandigarh leave a it early in the morning.
I hope this helps. Let me know incase you need more info. or have any queries or doubts.
Regards,
Dheeraj Sharma
Hello Sir,
Sir we r planning a tour to leh from 10th june onwards. I have a query regarding road conditions from leh to nubra,leh to moriri and leh to pangong. Can u tell the current status of these roads, as we are going on ford figo , i doubt tht it will make some problem (due to low GC) on these routes…!!! Please help
Hi Tejinder,
Well, first you will be reaching Leh by road. Which route are you following? If Manali – Leh, then that is the worry factor rather going to Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso and Tso Moriri. At these places, you will find few issues around passes Chang La and Khardung La but rest roads are manageable and even around passes, with careful driving you can manage it. Secondly, on the way to Tso Moriri, roads are excellent except after Sumdo/Kiagar Tso from where there are no roads rather dirt track for about 40 odd KMs at all.
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Sir,
first of all thanks for the reply. We are two people and going by manali to leh. As u suggested with careful driving we can manage, tht means i have to be very careful while going through the passes.One more thing i come to know from some local people from manali tht SDM office has not started giving permits !!!! Is this true…and any idea about official opening of manali-leh route ??
Hi Tejinder,
Yes, passes as well as water crossings and section of landslides. Yes, this is true untill and unless road is opened officially, they will not provide permits to anyone. Best bet is to take risk by 3-4 AM when other taxis leave and try to plead and convince the guy at checkpost.
No idea as of now, but I read somewhere they are planning for the coming week if weather stays good.
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Thank you for putting up the encyclopedia for leh travel. Only after reading your blogs have i made up my mind to travel to tso moriri from pangong tso.
We are planning to take manali – leh highway for the onwards journey and for the return we are taking pangong tso to tso moriri with a stay in either or both the lakes. I had some questions to which I hope you would provide some answers:
1. pangong tso – tso moriri : do able with bike?
2. one cannot travel to tso moriri without inner line permit? and do we need permit from manali to cross rohtang pass?? (no sneaking out possible? :P)
3. the route that has to be taken from leh – pangong tso – tso moriri – Manali. quite confused with so many articles on float. AS far i can see, there are two routes possible one through chusul-Nyoma and other through Changla-Chumathang. Where does Hanle lie? I mean which route?
Which of the two routes is preferable to ride through bike?
I just booked my tickets for visiting ladakh from 28th may to 24th june. And I would be going in for the first time. I would love for you to suggest me places to visit that often are missed in a regular itenary. I plan to go to Chandratal as well, but since I'll be traveling alone for 15 days : I am not sure how safe it is. Though I am not suckers for safety 😀
Hi Meeth,
1. Doable but back breaking.
2. You need permits for Tso Moriri lake. Also, if you are on bikes then you do not need permit for Manali – Rohtang Pass road.
3. Pangong tso to Tso Moriri ride is back breaking ride. Once you reach Loma while coming from Pangong Tso, if you go straight you go towards Nyoma – Mahe – Tso Moriri but in such a case you have to reach Tso Moriri because there is nothing between to sleep or eat. Now, from Loma if you take left then you reach Hanle which is about 50 KMs from Loma. There you will find accommodation and one of the greatest and scenic drives of your life.
Now, you can either come back to Loma and then move towards Nyoma and Mahe for Tso Moriri or you can continue from Hanle towards Chumnur via Salasal La and Charchaghan La to reach Tso Moriri from the other side of the lake. Again out of the world beauty on this route.
Hanle – Chumur one is tough or rough ride and Hanle – Loma – Nyoma is just crusing on fresh tarmac 🙂
BTW, there are actually 3 routes and extra 2 in the making, so in all 5 😉 …Two of them goes via Hanle 🙂 …
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj,
Thanks for the insight. But how does one decide : tough and scenic vs safe and not-so-scenic? That's quit a conundrum.
Couple of points for clarification :
1.When you say back breaking do you mean you will regret it or the spectacle will overcompensate for it? 😛
2.how do you join Manali-Leh highway ? the point of approach should be closer to Manali. We actually intend to make it to Manali from Tso moriri.
3. Will Xylo/Sumo can make it across the Charchagan La?
I promise this is the last time I ask a question ;).
Thanks again, Meeth
Hi Meeth,
If I were you, I will go with Hanle – Chumur route to see how Tso Moriri looks from both sides.
1. You will not regret it and if you are adventurous you will just love it thoroughly 😀 .. Not sure being biker how you are planning for any mechanical failure or so in such rough and isolated terrain.
2. Tso Moriri – Sumdo – Tso Kar – Debring (Manali – Leh Highway starts here) – Pang – Sarchu. You need to carry fuel for about 900 KMs to do this circuit, not sure how you gonna do it one bikes.
3. Yes, it can make it through and I hope you are going with an experienced driver. There is just one tricky water crossing near Charchagan La.
You can ask any number of questions any number of times 😉
Regards
Dheeraj
Thanks dheeraj! I am talking about :
Spangmik (Pangong Tso) – Man (9 KMs) – Merak (12 KMs)– Khaltse (4 KMs) – Chusul (24 KMs) – Tsaga La (33 KMs) – Tsaga Village (20 KMs) – Loma (23 KMs) – Nyoma (22 KMs) – Mahe (25 KMs) – Sumdo (10 KMs) – Tso Moriri / Korzok (53 KMs) = 235 KMs.
Other route option available is : Spangmik (Pangong Tso) – Man (9 KMs) – Merak (12 KMs)– Khaltse (4 KMs) – Chusul (24 KMs) – Tsaga La (33 KMs) – Tsaga Village (20 KMs) – Loma (23 KMs) – Rongho- hanle- (46 KMS)-SALSAL LA (62KMS)-CHARCHAGAN LA (23KMS)-THRU KARZOK TO TSOMORIRI (60 KMS)
What about if I include visit to Kyun Tso too?
First one can be done without too much hassle… For the second one, there is a little tricky water crossing near Charchagan La if I remember correctly, which if needed to be crossed (as there is one route that diverts it too) will pose some issue for Innova.
Kyun Tso is near to Salasal La only and you can include a visit to it as well if you like 🙂
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Do you think innova will be able to do this trip? please suggest as i'll be hit highway in first week of june.
Hi AN,
Yes, Innova will be able to cover Leh – Tso Moriri route, assuming you are talking about this route only. Although, it can do other routes in Ladakh as well but with little care at least in water crossings.
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj,
Do you recommend going directly from Pangong to Tsomoriri, or is it better to break them into 2 separate roundtrip journeys from Leh? How long does it take to reach Tsomoriri from Pangong?
Thanks and Regards,
Partha
Hi Partha,
It is better that you halt at Hanle in between Pangong Tso and Tso Moriri. First you will be able to break the tiring long journey and second you will get the chance to see beautiful Hanle drive as well 😉 … You need to take permits of whole Changthang if you plan to take that route and of courseif you going by bike then you need to carry spare fuel as well. So, either make two separate trips to Tso Moriri and Pangong Tso OR do it with night halt at Hanle. The time taken to drive between Pangong Tso to Tso Moriri will be easily about 12-14 Hrs with least break. But, since majority of the road is all Kuccha/dirt track, it will be tiring too day too.
I hope this helps. Let me know incase you need more info. or have any queries or doubts.
Regards,
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Deeraj,
We are planning the route as below
Leh to Nubra
Nubra to Pangong tso
Pangong tso – Tso Morir (halt in Hanle)
Tso Morir – Shortest avaialbe route to Manali leh high way. Please advice where we join in Highway with Distance,is it after Sarchu or Before, We wish to drive down to Manali Further.
Also need your kind advice, Petrol we can fillup in Leh, then where we can expect Petrol Bunk Next (is it Tandi). How much fuel we should carry as Extra. We all Drive Bullet Electra UCE – 4 People 4 Bikes.
Kindly also advice on tentative time required through Bike.
Please suggest whether it is advisable to cover pangong lake to tso moriri lake via chushul bypassing loma and nyoma as there exists direct route
Hi Sh Dheeraj
Hope u had very nice trip and post your latest comments on the trip.would like to know after visit to pangong lake whether v can proceed and stay at chushul and next day proceed to tso morriri lake and from morriri lake how much v can cover maximum towards manali and where v should stay
please advise
Hi Shree,
It is better that you halt at Hanle in between Pangong Tso and Tso Moriri. You will find homestays at Hanle only. Chusul is a big town on the way but may not be the ideal place to split the journey in between Pangong Tso and Hanle. Hanle itself is too beautiful to be missed.
You have to carry spare fuel for this drive you wish to undertake. If you start early from Tso Moriri then you can reach Sarchu on Manli – Leh Highway vis Tso Kar lake with some daylight to spare.
But, since majority of the road is all Kuccha/dirt track from Pangong Tso to Tsaga Village and then from little ahead of Sumdo to Korzok Village and Sumdo to Tso Kar to Moore Plains, is tiring a bit.
I hope this helps. Let me know incase you need more info. or have any queries or doubts.
Regards,
Dheeraj Sharma
PS -> Sorry for the delayed reply. I was traveling Ladakh for past two weeks 🙂 …
Will be in Ladakh hopefully this august. I so hope I will be able to make it to this beautiful place. Thanks for the post!
Wish you all the luck Bhavna, any info. you need in planning the trip to Ladakh, feel free to leave a comment and I will share all possible knowledge I have for the same.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma