The Rumtse to Tso Moriri Trek is a spectacular high-altitude journey across the vast Changthang Plateau, the land of the nomadic Changpa people. This trek is perfect for adventurers who love wide-open spaces, deep blue lakes, and seeing rare wildlife. Starting from Rumtse, famous for its colorful mountains of red, green, and yellow clay, your Rumtse to Tso Moriri Trek begins in a wild world that feels like the roof of the earth.
This is a challenging trek that stays at very high elevations, crossing several passes over 5,000 meters, including Kyamari La and Mandalcan La. Along the way, you will see the incredible Tso Kar Lake, a white salt lake where rare Black-necked Cranes and Tibetan Wild Ass (Kiang) roam free. During this Rumtse to Tso Moriri Trek, you will visit nomadic camps and see how they live in yak-hair tents while herding pashmina goats.
The grand finale of the Rumtse to Tso Moriri Trek is the arrival at Tso Moriri, a massive, turquoise-blue lake surrounded by snow-capped peaks. The view of the lake from the final pass is a moment you will never forget. This trek is for those who want to experience the true, rugged beauty of the Himalayan highlands and the spiritual quiet of the mountains. It is a deep dive into the soul of Ladakh’s wilderness. For a trek with more ancient monasteries and ‘Moonland’ scenery, look at the Lamayuru to Chilling Trek.
Trek Itinerary
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.
The walk starts through a valley of colorful "Rainbow Mountains." The path is mostly flat with a gentle gradient. You will walk along a clear stream. Elevation is around 4,500m. Look for the unique rock colors and marmots popping out of their holes.
A tough day with two high passes. First, climb Kyamari La (5,180m), then descend and climb Mandalcan La (5,250m). Steep gradients on the climbs. You will see the Karakoram Range in the distance. The camp is in a high alpine meadow.
Cross the Shingbuk La (5,230m). From the top, you get your first view of the white Tso Kar salt lake. The descent is long and rocky. You walk onto the flat Changthang plains. Look for "Kiang" (wild ass) running across the dusty earth.
An easy, flat walk across the saline flats of the lake. Very low gradient today. You pass small nomadic settlements. You will see crusty salt deposits on the lake shore and many migratory birds. The hike is sunny and windy across the open plateau.
Climb the Horlam Kongka La (4,950m). The gradient is steady but not too steep. After the pass, you descend into a beautiful valley where many nomadic families stay with their sheep and goats. Great chance to see the nomadic lifestyle and pashmina wool.
A challenging day crossing Kanyur La (5,400m). This is one of the highest points of the trek. The air is thin, so walk slowly. The views of the surrounding peaks are massive. You camp in a remote, high valley used by seasonal herders.
The final climb over Yalung Nyau La (5,440m). From the top, the blue Tso Moriri lake appears below like a jewel. A long, steep descent leads to Korzok village. Visit the ancient monastery and walk to the lakeside to finish your big adventure.
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.
Trek Inclusions
- Expert local trekking guide with mountain experience.
- Ponies to carry all trekking gear and personal bags.
- High-quality camping tents, kitchen tents, and warm mats.
- All meals (Breakfast, packed lunch, and hot dinner).
- Inner Line Permits and Wildlife Sanctuary fees.
- Oxygen cylinder and medical kit for high altitude safety.
Trek Exclusions
- Personal trekking boots and warm clothing.
- Travel insurance (must cover high-altitude rescue).
- Personal snacks, energy bars, or bottled water.
- Tips for the trekking crew (guides and horsemen).
- Stay and food in Leh before/after the trek.
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