Rumtse Tsomoriri Trek offers an beautiful journey through Ladakh’s remote Changthang plateau, crossing six high passes over 5,000m and showcasing pristine lakes like Tso Kar and stunning Tso Moriri. Starting from Rumtse village (4,040m), this challenging 8-10 day adventure covers 100+ km, blending nomadic encounters, wildlife and breathtaking Himalayan vistas. Ideal for experienced trekkers seeking raw wilderness.
Embark on the Rumtse to Tso Moriri Trek, a crown jewel of Ladakh trekking routes. Traverse vast grasslands dotted with yaks and pashmina goats, camp beside shimmering Tso Kar wetland, and summit thrilling passes like Shibuk La (4,980m), Horlam Kongka La and Yalung Nyau La (5,440m). Marvel at Korzok Monastery overlooking the sacred Tso Moriri Lake (4,522m), a Ramsar site teeming with migratory birds.
This high-altitude trek demands fitness for daily 15-20km hikes at 4,000-5,500m, with acclimatization key to avoid altitude sickness. Encounters with Changpa nomads offer cultural immersion amid stark, surreal landscapes—snow-capped peaks, colorful prayer flags, and starlit skies. Professional guides ensure safety over rugged terrain, while porters manage loads.
Best time: June-September for stable weather. Mountain Intelligence provides expert support, making Rumtse Tsomoriri Trek perfect for adventure seekers chasing untouched Ladakh beauty. Book now for an epic Himalayan odyssey!
Trek Itinerary
Drive: None | Hike: 0 km | Places: Airport to hotel | Elevation: 3,500m
Arrive at Leh airport, transfer to hotel for acclimatization. Rest completely, hydrate well, and stroll local markets in evening. Prepare body for high-altitude Rumtse Tsomoriri Trek. Overnight in hotel.
Drive: 80 km round trip | Hike: 0 km | Places: Shey Palace, Thiksey Monastery, Hemis Monastery | Elevation: 3,500-3,800m
Visit iconic monasteries with panoramic views. Explore Shey Palace ruins, Thiksey's giant Buddha, and Hemis' ancient murals. Essential acclimatization before Rumtse Tsomoriri Trek. Return to Leh. Overnight in hotel.
Drive: 75 km (3 hrs) | Hike: 0 km | Places: Rumtse village | Elevation: 4,040m
Scenic drive via Gya village to Rumtse. Explore local homes, meet shepherds. Rest for altitude adjustment ahead of Rumtse to Tso Moriri Trek. Camp overnight.
Drive: None | Hike: 11 km (4 hrs) | Places: Salt route trails | Elevation: +300m (4,350m)
Gentle ascent through rugged valleys on ancient salt paths. Spot grazing yaks amid dramatic landscapes. Perfect Ladakh trekking introduction. Camp at Kyamar.
Drive: None | Hike: 14 km (6-7 hrs) | Places: Kyamar La, Mandalchan La | Elevation: +780m/-380m (4,800m pass)
Cross two passes with sweeping Changthang plateau views. Enter nomadic pastures, wildflowers in season. Camp at Tisaling meadows.
Drive: None | Hike: 14 km (6 hrs) | Places: Shibuk La | Elevation: +380m/-670m (4,980m pass)
Summit Shibuk La for marmot sightings, vast horizons. Descend to expansive plateaus. Immersive Rumtse Tsomoriri Trek wilderness. Camp at Ponganagu.
Drive: None | Hike: 18 km (5 hrs) | Places: Tso Kar Lake | Elevation: +170m/-150m (4,500m)
Trek beside shimmering Tso Kar wetland. Birdwatch black-necked cranes, explore marshes. Serene high-altitude trek day. Camp at Nuruchan.
Today we start our trek towards the Nomadic settlement of Rajun Karu with a gradual ascend crisscrossing streams along the way. The trail is along a meandering river with snowy mountains on either side. The Changthang valley unveils its extravagant scenery from this point onwards. Prepare for abrupt weather conditions and be equipped with rainproof jackets and covers for your bag. After a steady but steep incline followed by a descent to Rajun Karu you get to witness many camps of the Changthang nomads with Yaks and Pashmina Goats grazing on the pastures. Overnight in tents.
Drive: None | Hike: 8 km (7-8 hrs) | Places: Kyamayuri La | Elevation: +850m/-340m (5,300m passes)
Challenging One passes with prayer flags fluttering. Epic Himalayan vistas. Camp at remote Gyama Barma.
Drive: None | Hike: 6 km (3 hrs) | Places: Kartse La | Elevation: +210m/-250m
Easy pass crossing, gentle valley descent. Relax amid nomad trails. Recovery day on Rumtse to Tsomoriri Trek. Camp at Gyama.
Today is the longest and hardest part of the trek. The trail from Gyama starts straight away taking you to the sixth pass of the trek, Yalung Nyau. The climb is a gradual but a long ascent along a river in the midst of sharply jagged mountains. After crisscrossing the river at several sections, a sudden turn takes you to the pass over a decently steep ascent. The first view when you reach the pass is the blue waters of Tso Moriri Lake, unlike anything you have seen and a sight for sore eyes. But this is not it, now starts a steep descend over a rugged landscape with the latter half of the trail flattening out to reach the endpoint of the trek, Karzok Phu (4600m). The enchanting freshwater lake of Tso Moriri stands elegantly with stunning mountains surrounding it. Take a walk along the shores and enjoy the tranquility this place has to offer. Overnight in homestay.
Drive back to Leh from Karzok via Chumathang hot spring and famous mahe-bridge. We’ll stop to Chumathang Hot Spring for lunch Break. And then we will move to Leh City.
After the breakfast we will excursion towards the Leh Airport , So its time to departure. We hope you depart with happy and vivid memories of this enchanting, mysterious landscape and we look forward to welcoming you again in Ladakh . Why not share some of your photos and memories via our Facebook Page | Trip Advisor Review | Google Review
Trek Inclusions
- Accommodation in Leh hotel (2 nights) on twin-sharing basis
- All trek meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) from Day 1 dinner to Day 10 breakfast
- Professional English-speaking trek guide, cook, assistant, and support staff
- Tents, sleeping mats, dining tent, kitchen equipment, and common gear
- Horses/porters for personal luggage (12kg limit per person)
- Leh to Rumtse transport and Korzok to Leh drive
- Inner Line Permit, wildlife sanctuary fees, and camping charges
- First aid kit, oxygen cylinder, and oximeter for safety
Trek Exclusions
- Leh hotel stays beyond itinerary (extra nights)
- Airfare to/from Leh and personal travel insurance
- Sleeping bag, trek jacket, trekking poles, and individual gear
- Beverages, mineral water, snacks, or alcohol during trek
- Tips for guide/crew
- Entry fees for monasteries/camera use and souvenirs
- Leh local sightseeing or additional meals/transport
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