Rumtse to Tso Moriri Trek: The Largest High Altitude Lake in the Himalayas
Rumtse to Tso Moriri Trek lies in the Jammu and Kashmir region. Tso Moriri is the largest high altitude lake within Ladakh covering 40 km flanked by the Greater Himalayas and Trans Himalayas.
The trek from Rumtse to Tso Moriri is one of the most picturesque treks in Ladakh. The trail passes through the Changthang region; it is a plateau with exotic landscapes and unique lakes like Tso Kar and Tso Moriri.
The Legend Behind Rumtse to Tso Moriri Trek
The interesting story behind Tso Moriri’s name is – A Chomo (Buddhist nun) woman was riding on a Yak and somehow got carried into the lake, the Yak started drowning into the water and the scared woman cried “Ri Ri” for help until she drowned. Then the lake got its name “Chomoriri”.
Highlights of Rumtse to Tso Moriri Trek
Cross high passes on Tso Moriri trek i.e. Kyamar La, Madachalan La, Shibuk La, Kyamayaru La and Yarlung Nyau La.
Sight of two high altitude lakes Tso Kar and Tso Moriri.
Spot Brahmini ducks and necked cranes with other Himalayan animals and birds like ibex, marmots and kiang.
Come across Chanpa and other nomad families on the way with their goats, sheep and yaks.
Karzok is India’s highest altitude village (4572 m) and there a 500 years old ancient monastery lies on the trading route between Ladakh and Spiti.
Key Points of Rumtse to Tso Moriri Trek
Level: Difficult
Proper conditioning & training of body required
Need proper gear & clothing for sub-zero temperature
Shoes are the single most important equipment.
High Altitude requires proper acclimatization.
Beautiful landscapes so carry good photo gear & Extra battery backup.
Travel light
The backpack should not exceed 10 kgs.
Must Read about Rumtse to Tso Moriri Trek
Duration – 7 days
Best Time – June, July and August
Level – Difficult
Highest point – 5450 m
Weather – Nights are cold and day temperature is pleasant during the season.
Temperature – Day (20°C to 30°C) Night (5°C to 10°C)
Starting point – Rumtse
Short Itinerary of Rumtse to Tso Moriri Trek
Day 1 – Rumtse to Kyamar – Distance – 10 km, Time taken – 4 hours
Day 2 – Kyamar – Kyamar La – Mandalchan La – Tisaling – Distance – 13 km, Time taken – 6/7 hours
Day 3 – Tisaling to Shibuk La – Ponganagu – Distance – 14 km, Time taken – 6/7 hours
Day 4 – Ponganagu to Nuruchan- Distance – 17.8 km, Time taken – 5/6 hours
Day 5 – Nuruchan to Kyamayuri La and Gyamar Barma- Distance – 19 km, Time taken – 7/8 hours
Day 6 – Gyamar Barma to Kartse La and Gyamar – Distance – 5.7 km, Time taken – 3 hours
Day 7 – Gyamar to Yalung Nyau La and Karzok – Distance – 16 km, Time taken – 5/6 hours
Bharat Soni –
super info