The Tso Kar Basin is a high-altitude wetland complex, consisting of two main water bodies – a perfect place for migratory birds. Startsapuk Tso is a freshwater lake of about 438 hectares to the south, and Tso Kar is a hypersaline lake of 1,800 hectares to the north, situated in the Changthang region of Ladakh, India. The lake got its name Tso Kar due to the white salt efflorescence on the margins of the lake caused by the evaporation of the saline waters.

Tso Moriri Lake is less than 250 kilometers away from southeast of Leh. It is at an altitude of 4595 meters above sea level, Tso Moriri is a calm and high-altitude lake in Changtang Wildlife Sanctuary. It runs up to 28 km in length and is 100 feet deep on average. Since it is located in a wetland reserve, you cannot make your tent in the area but can choose accommodation in the camps around Tso Moriri lake, which gives you a mesmerizing view of the lake.

Birds and Animals

For bird watchers and wildlife photographers, it’s a great opportunity to see a variety of migratory birds, as the lake is surrounded by marshlands that welcome different types of birds. Some of them are Brahmi Ducks, bar-headed geese, and great crested grebe. The most common birds at the lake, are the black neck cranes, which visit the lake in order to lay eggs. Mammals like Kianga, the largest of the wild asses, can also be spotted. The area surrounding the lake which is home to ibex, snow leopards, and snow foxes.

Migratory Birds

The commonly seen migratory birds seen here are Brahmni ducks, bar-headed geese, and great crested grebe. One can also find Red-billed choughs, The chukar partridge, The mallard, and The fire-fronted serin. Bacterian Camels, diverse wildlife, high altitude desert with a valley of flowers, and some spectacular photography of nature. Therefore, some of the migratory birds that are found in Ladakh include Chukor Partridge, Kestrel, Lammergeyer, and Himalayan griffin vultures.

Best time to visit Tso Lake

Tso Moriri is located in the Changtang region of Jammu and Kashmir, which has freezing temperatures during the winter months. However, the lake remains frozen between the months of November and April, the summer months are the best time to visit Tso Moriri to enjoy the beauty at its peak which is also the best time to visit Ladakh.

How to reach Tso Moriri

Leh to Tso Moriri

The direct bus is available from Leh to Tso Moriri which is run by Jammu and Kashmir State Road Transport Corporation(JKSRTC). Many bus stations are available and tourists have the choice of taking a taxi or riding motorcycles, which can be taken on rent. It takes 6 hours to reach Tso Moriri
The route that is usually taken is Leh-Upshi-Debring- Puga- Tso Moriri.
Alternate route: Leh- Upshi- Chumathang- Mahe-Puga- Tso Moriri.

Pangong to Tso Moriri

Direct Route

There is a route that goes directly from Pangong to Tso Moriri. It goes via Changthang (starting from Man). It is only for Indian citizens and one needs to book cab services or private vehicles to reach the destination.
Hence, the route is: Pangong- Man- Merak- Khaltse- Chusul- Tsaga La- Tsaga Village- Loma – Nyoma- Mahe- Sumdo- Tso Moriri

Indirect Route

There is a route that goes from Pangong to Tso Moriri which is a longer one. Like the direct route, the only way to reach the destination is via cabs or private vehicles. Moreover, this route is especially for foreign tourists as they don’t have permission for the Changthang route. They have to take the route via Chumathang compulsorily.
Henceforth, the route is: Pangong- Lukung- Tangtse- Durbuk- Chang La- Sakti- Karu- Upshi- Kumdok- Kere- Chumathang- Mahe- Sumdo-Tso Moriri

Inner Line Permit for Tso Moriri

Travelers could also apply online for an Inner Line Permit by logging into the official website, https://lahdclehpermit.in/. Upon clicking on the ‘Issue’ button, press the ‘Domestic Clients’ section to proceed to the personal details page. It is essential to fill out personal identification details, which can be Aadhar, Voter ID, or Passport verification. Once the entire verification is complete ensure to have a concrete copy of the permit, through a printout.

Lastly, Tso Lake is absolutely a paradise for nature lovers, aqua lovers, and those who find happiness in the mountains. The lake is crystal clear enough to make us in be awe of the marvelous natural scenic beauty we witness as travelers.

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