Visit the crystal clear alpine Tso Kar and Tso Moriri lakes, catch a glimpse of the Changpa nomad, discover their culture

Max. Altitude

5,440m/17,867ft. (At. Height)
Trip Start Point

Leh Ladakh, India
Trip Ending Point

Leh Ladakh, India
Trekking Grade

Challenging+Demanding
Accommodation

4 nights in 3-star hotel, 8 nights in camping
Meal

10 Dinner, 12 Breakfast, and 9 Lunch
Trip Activity

Trekking and Hiking in India

Conquer six mountain passes including the towering Kyamayuri La (5400 meters) and Yalung Nyau La (5414 meters).

The Rumtse Tso Moriri trek is a challenging but incredibly rewarding trek for those who want to witness the surreal glow of high mountain passes, turquoise lakes, and immerse themselves in the unique culture of the Changpa nomad. It takes you through the incredibly beautiful and untouched Chang-Thang Valley, a beautiful destination in Ladakh. Stretching over 100 kilometers, the Rumtse Tso Moriri trek will definitely test your mettle, with seven challenging passes and passes above (5,000m), including the fearsome Yarlung Nyau La and Shibuk La, ten river crossings, and three campsites above 16,000 feet. etc..

The trek to Rumtse Tso Moriri is a four-season trek, allowing you to experience four different seasons along the way. Where the exquisite rivers, lush green meadows, snow-capped peaks, and desolate, lonely surroundings occasionally change shape, creating multi-faceted mountains with bursts of color. The high altitudes of Ladakh require a strong physical fitness and a suitable environment due to the altitude and difficult ascents and descents.

However, upon reaching each peak, you will be rewarded with breathtaking views, such as the sparkling salty Tso Kar Lake, which shimmers like a mirage, and one of the most beautiful destinations of this trek, ending the adventure in the sapphire-blue expanse of Tso Moriri Lake. Rare species can also be found in the region, including snow leopards, blue sheep, marmots, and wild asses roaming freely. The ever-changing scenery, which ranges from vibrant green campgrounds to snow-capped peaks that reach the sky, leaves its observers speechless.

As you camp under the stars in places like Tisaling, Kyamar, and Rachungkharu, where emerald grasslands challenge the steep elevations, majestic mountains will provide moments of pure magic. The captivating world of the Changpa nomads, their sturdy yaks, and their Pashmina goats adorn the countryside. Where you can hear their stories, feel their gracious hospitality, and discover their traditional way of life.

Highlights of Rumtse Tso Moriri Trek

✔ Tso Moriri trek, a hidden Himalayan gem, offers a unique experience with remote landscapes, high-altitude passes, and stunning views.
✔ The trek involves crossing multiple passes over 5,000 meters, offering breathtaking scenery of rugged peaks and vast valleys
✔ Enjoy the solitude and untouched beauty of Ladakh’s remote landscapes, with crystal-clear streams and alpine meadows.
✔ The trek culminates at Tso Moriri Lake, a mesmerizing high-altitude lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains.
✔ Experience the culture and way of life of the Changpa nomads, who inhabit the area.
✔ It involves trekking through Ladakh, crossing passes over 5,000 meters, and encountering the Changpa nomads.

OUTLINE ITINERARY

Day 01 : Arrival in Leh (3500m) and Acclimatization.
Day 02 : Sightseeing tour around Leh City
Day 03 : Full day visit to Thiksey Monastery and She Gompa
Day 04 : Drive to Rumtse and trek to Kyamar
Day 05 : Trek to Tisaling via Kyamar La ((5071m), Mandalchan La (5206m)
Day 06 : Trek to Ponganagu (4651m) via Shibuk La (5275m)
Day 07 : Trek to Nuruchan from Ponganagu
Day 08 : Trek to Gyamar Barma (5195m) via Kyamayuri La (5416m)
Day 09 : Trek to Gyamar (5157m) via Kartse La (5384m)
Day 10 : Trek to Korzok (4500m) via Yalung Nyau La (5440m)
Day 11 : Visit Korzok Monastery and Villages (4500m)
Day 12 : Drive back to Leh (3500m)- from Korzok
Day 13 : Departure from Leh

Customize Your Trek

This is a general itinerary, which can always individually be “tailormade”. The trek package can be redesigned or redeveloped as per your taste, For more information please contact us.

Day 01 :

Arrive in Leh and Acclimatization.

Arrive at Leh airport and check in to the hotel. Get acclimated to the new surroundings at an altitude of 3,500m/11,500ft. In the evening visit Shanti Stupa (World Peace Stupa). This is one of the major attractions of Leh, built to commemorate 2500 years of Buddhism to promote world peace and prosperity. This sacred site, situated on a hill, offers a panoramic magical view of the city and its surroundings. Relax and spend the night at the hotel.

Max Altitude : 3,500m/11,500ft.
Rest and Acclimatization
Accommodation: Hotel (Hotel Omasila)
Meals: Dinner

Day 02 :

Sightseeing tour around Leh City

Your second day in Ladakh will be spent in Leh, where you will continue your acclimatization, i.e. on this day, your exploration will be a visit to the Leh Palace built in the 17th century. Leh Palace was the residence of the royal family which is now converted into a museum from where you can get information about the Ladakhi royal history. The palace is located on a hilltop and offers a magnificent bird's eye view of the city, during the day, you will take a walk around the palace. Overnight in Leh.

Max Altitude : 3,500m/11,500ft.
Rest and Acclimatization
Accommodation: Hotel (Hotel Omasila)
Meals: Breakfast

Day 03 :

Full day visit to Thiksey Monastery and She Gompa

We have included Thiksey Monastery and She Gompa in the itinerary for the third day in Leh. So you will visit Thiksey Monastery to listen to the morning prayer mantras. The experience will be truly magnificent. After the morning prayer session, you will wander around the site. Explore its art, architecture and history. The views are definitely mesmerizing and the architecture is amazing so it is also a great place to learn about Buddhism and culture. After spending some time at the beautiful Thiksey Monastery, you will visit Druk Padma Karpo School and Rancho School and head to She Gompa. She Monastery is famous for its huge copper and gold statue of Shakyamuni Buddha, which is the second largest statue in Ladakh, and is a must-see statue. The gompa is located on a hilltop, offering breathtaking panoramic views. Return to Leh. Rest of the time will be at your own leisure. Overnight stay at Hotel Omasila.

Max Altitude : 3,500m/11,500ft.
Accommodation: Hotel (Hotel Omasila)
Meals: Breakfast

Day 04 :

Drive to Rumtse and trek to Kyamar

Today you will head to Rumtse for a trek after breakfast, which will take about 2 hours by private car. On the same day you will continue your trek to Kyamar. Follow the trek to Kyamar, which was previously known as the salt road. Through this valley, you will reach Kyamar, where you will set up your camp and spend the night comfortably.

Driving : 2 hours - Hiking 4 hours
Maximum Elevation: 4538 meters
Accommodation: Camping (Tented Camp)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch packed and Dinner

Day 05 :

Trek to Tisaling via Kyamar La ((5071m), Mandalchan La (5206m)

After breakfast, slowly climb up to Kyamar La, enjoying the magnificent view of the Changthang region from the pass. Descend to Doksa, a temporary shelter for shepherds, and then climb up to Mandalchan La, then descend to Teysaling. Overnight at tented camp.

Hiking: 6-7 hours
Maximum Elevation: 4,940 meters
Accommodation: Camping (Tented Camp)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch packed and Dinner

Day 06 :

Trek to Ponganagu (4651m) via Shibuk La (5275m)

After breakfast, follow the road that gradually ascend towards Shibuk La. Enjoy the magnificent view of Tsokar Lake from the pass. Descend to Ponganagu near Tsokar Lake. This area is famous for observing migratory birds, kyang (wild asses), marmots and ibex.

Hiking: 6-7 hours
Maximum Elevation: 4651meters
Accommodation: Camping (Tented Camp)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch packed and Dinner

Day 07 :

Trek to Nuruchan from Ponganagu

After morning breakfast, you will continue your trek walking along the west side of Tsokar lake where you might be able to spot black necked cranes and brahmini ducks. Tsokar is also called “white lake” because of the salt that get deposited on its banks. trek to Nuruchan. Overnight at tented camp.

Hiking: 5-6 hours
Maximum Elevation: 4679 meters
Accommodation: Camping (Tented Camp)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch packed and Dinner

Day 08 :

Trek to Gyamar Barma (5195m) via Kyamayuri La (5416m)

After delicious breakfast, you will be crossing two passes today (Horlam Kongka La and Kyamayuri La) to reach Gyamar Barma. On the way, you will meet several nomad peoples (families) with their yaks, sheep and goats. Where, stay overnight at tent camp.

Hiking: 7-8 hours
Maximum Elevation: 5,195 meters
Accommodation: Camping (Tented Camp)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch packed and Dinner

Day 09 :

Trek to Gyamar (5157m) via Kartse La (5384m)

After a delicious breakfast, you will ascend to Kartse La, the shortest camp on the trek and cross the pass, then descend into the Gyamar valley. Where, stay overnight at tented camp.

Hiking: 3 hours
Maximum Elevation: 5157 meters
Accommodation: Camping (Tented Camp)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch packed and Dinner

Day 10 :

Trek to Korzok (4500m) via Yalung Nyau La (5440m)

After breakfast, today you will cross the highest pass of the trek, Yalung Nyau La, from which you will get a great view of Chamser & Lungser Kangri across the lake, the Changthang plateau and distant Tibet, Tso Moriri Lake and mentok Khangri. Continue your trek and trek downhill, descending to Korzok village on the banks of Tso Moriri. Where you will set up camp. Rest after a long day of trekking.

Hiking: 5-6 hours
Maximum Elevation: 4,500 meters
Accommodation: Camping (Tented Camp)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch packed and Dinner

Day 11 :

Visit Korzok Monastery and Villages.

Today you will in the morning visit Korzok monastery (found in 1861 by Lama Kunga Lodos Nyingbo) village with its houses and its gompa appearing like a “Mirage”. The few barley fields at Korzok must be among the highest cultivation in the world and today you will visit the Korzok monastery and this is the village where nomad people has concrete house, explore the village and walk around the lake or Possibility of a walk on the embrace the landscape and increase the chances of seeing wildlife, walk on the heights. Overnight at Korzok.

Maximum Elevation: 4,500 meters
Accommodation: Camping (Tented Camp)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch packed and Dinner

Day 12 :

Drive back to Leh from Korzok

Before driving into the Indus Gorge, the road passes through the Kyagar Pass. From Mahe, multi-colored rocks hang over us at 1000 meters, along the way you can also see the Chumathang Hot sulphur springs. And from here you will find the Leh plains at the foot of the mountains, relax after reaching Leh, and refresh the memories of your incredible adventure. In the evening, consider joining your fellow trekkers for a festive dinner in Leh. Savor delicious Ladakhi cuisine and share stories of your experiences. This will be a wonderful way to bond with your group and reminisce about the unforgettable Rumtse Tso Moriri trek.

Travel Distance: 210 km - Driving: 6-7 hours
Max- Elevation: 3,500m/11,500ft.
Accommodation: Hotel (Hotel Omasila)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 13 :

Departure from Leh

Today you will bid farewell to the hill state of Ladakh. Flights usually depart early in the morning to avoid the wind. So, after breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport for your final departure in the morning.

Meals: Breakfast

Trip Info:

For Your Information, International flights and India “Entry Visa Fee” aren’t included. Rooms are usually shared by two people unless you request a private room. You can upgrade to better hotels in the mountain and even in the cities. For your customized services, please specify during the booking process or contact us.

Meals

Breakfast (only) will be available in Leh while all meals (breakfast, packed lunch and dinner) will be provided during the trek. You can enjoy freshly cooked, hygienic and nutritious meals prepared by our trained and experienced cooks on a full-board basis during the trek. Authentic Nepali, Tibetan dishes as well as typical international cuisine (Tibetan, Continental, Italian, Indian, etc.) will be available. There will also be welcome and farewell dinners in Leh.

Accommodation

AlpineTrav Treks will provide 4 nights at Omasila Hotel in Leh, and other nights accommodation in camping tent. Foam mattresses will be provided for sleeping in the tents. We maintain standard comfort in everything based on applicable conditions such as weather conditions. All hotel and camping accommodation will be on a twin-sharing basis, and if there is a different gender, we will provide you with a single supplement tent at no extra charge. If you prefer a single room, you can indicate your preference and get a single room on request by paying a single supplement USD 230.

Experience Required

The trek from Rumtse to Tso Moriri is classified as a moderate to challenging hike. You will have to walk for 6-8 hours, crossing steep, mountainous terrain and peaks up to 5000 meters high. Some days you may be in a remote environment with extreme weather. You will also have to deal with high altitude air with low oxygen content. Therefore, previous hiking experience, physical fitness and a positive attitude are essential. It is a good idea to exercise and jog regularly for a few weeks before the hike to increase our strength and stability. Previous hiking experience is basic but no technical skills are required for this hike. It is important for participants with pre-existing medical conditions such as heart, lung and blood diseases to consult their doctor before the trek. It is also advised that you inform AlpineTrav Treks about your medical condition before booking the trek.

Acclimatization

Rumtse to Tso Moriri Trek has been planned with a high level of awareness of AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness). Separate days are allotted for acclimatization. Going to high altitudes too quickly can be a serious medical condition that can lead to death. The higher the altitude, the less oxygen there is in the air. For example, at altitudes above 5000 meters, there is 50% less oxygen than at sea level. Therefore, our body needs some days to adapt to the low oxygen environment. So, before embarking on the trek, settle in Leh and do some activities to acclimatize.

AlpineTrav Treks advises guest(s) with known heart, lung or blood disease to consult their doctor before traveling. Mild headache, fever, loss of appetite or stomach ache are symptoms of AMS. AlpineTrav Treks’ itineraries are designed to try to prevent AMS as much as possible. However, it is important to remember that some visitors are more vulnerable than others.

Team Composition

For the trek, there will be mules to carry the luggage, and a local guide, 1 assistant porter guide (6 trekkers: 1 assistant guide), this arrangement ensures that even if someone in the group falls ill or is unable to continue, the trek can continue as planned for the rest of the group. We have been operating treks for groups of any size, but a maximum of twelve people for camping trekking, would generally be ideal.

Plan Your Trip

With our all-inclusive packages, if your travel plans don’t match, we’ll be happy to create a package to suit your needs. Let us know what kind of trip you’re looking for and we’ll help plan your tailor-made trips to your dream destination.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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What is the best time to trek to Rumtse To Tso Moriri?

The best time to trek Rumtse Tso Moriri is between June and September. During these months, the weather is pleasant during the day and cool at night. Daytime temperatures range from 20°C to 30°C, and nighttime temperatures range from 5°C to 10°C. It is not advisable to attempt the trek during the early and winter months due to the potential challenges of crossing the high passes blocked by snow. While it is not impossible to cross the passes in winter, careful preparation for cold conditions and altitude sickness is required. If trekking during these months, it is important to take proper precautions and make the necessary arrangements to ensure a safe and successful journey.

How difficult is the Ladakh Rumtse To Tso Moriri Trek?

Rumtse To Tso Moriri Trek is considered challenging due to high altitudes and longer duration trek. The trail is relatively easier following good paths but due to the increasing altitude, it’s graded challenging. Please be prepared to walk for 6 to 8 hrs every day on average carrying your backpack, which will consist of your valuable items, water, extra fleece, snacks etc. Longer treks reaching up to an elevation of 5400m.

Do I need a permit to trek in Rumtse To Tso Moriri?

Yes, it is required. Due to its proximity to the China/Pakistan border, a permit known as an Inner-Line Permit (ILP) or Restricted Area Permit (RAP) is required to enter every part of Ladakh. This permit can be obtained in Leh. Which should be booked through a local company in Leh.

Who are my guides in Rumtse To Tso Moriri Trek?

Rest assured that you will be in good hands with our experienced trek guides, who have multiple years of experience in Sikkim. All of our guides, known as our dedicated Guides, are locals with a deep understanding of the mountain, its people, culture, health, hygiene, and most importantly, your safety. They are fluent in English and will be able to communicate effectively with you throughout the trek. Our guides are passionate about their work and will ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable trekking experience.

What is the experience of the trekking guides/staff?

The guides have many years of guiding experience in Nepal, Ladakh, Tibet, Bhutan and Sikkim trekking. Most have been exploring the Himalayas for years. Our guides are also trained in first aid and know how to handle any situation. All our guides speak fluent English and are happy to share their in-depth knowledge of Sikkim culture, geography, flora, festivals, lifestyle with you. It is enough to take visitors to special places or special cultures, so we provide guides who can engage people in what they are experiencing, explain it well and entertain them. They are well-versed in how to make the journey comfortable and safe while appreciating the beauty of the Himalayas.

Is my trip departure guaranteed?

Absolutely yes! Under normal circumstances, our booked trips are guaranteed to run. We are a tailor-made company. If you are in a last-minute stress, remember to find us to sort out your trip decisions. Please feel free to book your stress-free holidays with us. Unless there is a situation which is out of control such as a political riot, natural disaster, pandemic, epidemic or weather catastrophes, our trips are 100% guaranteed to run.

What if I cancel the trip, do I get my refund?

AlpineTrav Treks offers a lifetime deposit policy which allows you the flexibility to transfer your deposit to anyone or any other trip. If you wish to cancel your booked trips, certain cancelation charges apply. Please visit our booking terms and conditions for detailed information.

What kind of gears are needed to trek to Rumtse To Tso Moriri?

In Ladakh Rumtse To Tso Moriri Trek. You will stay tent camp. However; since you will be trekking in remote areas, you should be prepared with the right clothes. Please see our detailed clothing packing lists for the Ladakh Rumtse To Tso Moriri Trek. Here, equipment packing list

How much does the Rumtse Tso Moriri Trek Cost?

Generally, the price of the trek, the price difference offered by different operators depends on many factors such as the services provided, number of days, different routes, accommodation, and many more. There are many operators who offer cheap prices but their price tags alone do not entice. Many times, trekkers face problems in arranging their treks with cheap operators because of their untrained and inexperienced leaders and crew members, low quality equipment and very poor accommodation food and transportation arrangements.