Rumtse to Tso Moriri Trek

Life is unpredictable and we understand that sometimes you have to cancel or change your trip dates and we endeavour to make it as easy as possible for you. However, please understand that we plan everything including guide fees, permits, accommodation and rations in advance. Therefore, any cancellation means inconvenience and certain losses to the people involved in various stages of the programme. Keeping that in mind, our cancellation charges are as below -

• Cancellations before 30 days from the start of the event: Get a monetary refund with 15% of cancellation charges.

• Cancellations between 30 days and 15 days to the start of the event: 50 %refund.

• Cancellations less than 15 days to the start of the event: No refund.

• Cancellations will be accepted only by email.

Note: The Himalayan Daredevils reserves the right to cancel a program before departure in the event of logistical problems arising due to natural calamities, strikes, wars or any other circumstances that make the event inadvisable. In this case, we will refund 50% of the event fees.

Itinerary Changes &Trip delays:

We plan itineraries based on the information available at the time of planning and in rare circumstances, they are subject to change. If the itinerary is changed or delayed due to unforeseen circumstances such as bad weather, transportation delays, government intervention, landslides etc., we will always aim to give you the best experience possible. However, The Himalayan Daredevils not be held responsible for the cost of delay or changes.

For Bookings made from Third Party Websites:

• The client is responsible for communicating with a third party (booking website) for cancellation.

• Cancellation / Refund is done by a third party based on their policies. 

The Rumtse to Tso Moriri Trek is a high trek in Ladakh, letting you see the quiet Changthang land. This trek lasts 8 or 9 days, spans about 100 kilometres, and goes over many tall passes, all over 5,000 metres high, like Kyamayuru La, Shibuk La, and Yalung Nyau La. It starts at Rumtse village on the Leh–Manali road and opens into big valleys, blue lakes, and wide meadows where Changpa nomads roam. This trek is all about pure nature, no busy tea stops or full paths, just huge open land under the shade of Ladakhi sky. As you walk, you see wild kiangs, marmots, blue sheep, and many birds, close to the lakes. The main draw is the big and blue Tso Moriri Lake at 4,522 meters, with snowy peaks and green lands around. You need to be fit and ready for high places, rough lands, and iffy weather. The camps are spots for starry views, calm, and wide scenes of the Himalayas. More than a view, the walk lets you into the moving life and soul of Ladakh. This place isn’t just about a body test; it’s a deep dive into an untouched part of the Himalayas, a step into a new yet old world.

History Rumtse to Tso Moriri Trek

This trek path lies in Changthang, an old land in the Tibetan highland, home to nomadic groups for ages. Long ago, it sat on key paths linking Ladakh and Tibet. Nomad herders, the Changpas, have lived and moved here for a long time, with their pashmina goats, yaks, and sheep, keeping to old ways. Tso Moriri, in older times, was a holy lake to the locals, and the old Korzok Monastery was a hub for nomads, traders, and travel folk. Old stories tell of caravans with salt, wool, and barley, moving across these lands, linking far places in the Himalayas. This land was also on lesser-known Silk Route parts, taking not just goods but ideas and art between Tibet, Ladakh, and Central Asia.

British searchers in the 19th century first marked down this spot, known for tough passes and lakes, yet for long before it was a mix of wild and untouched by those from afar. Only knowing herders, traders, and monks, led by deep knowledge of the land, moved here. Its fame in recent times started when seeking less-travelled paths brought onlookers in the late 20th century. Today, still not many go here in the summer, keeping its wild feel. This trek is key not just for where it goes but as a living tie from old to now, where old nomad life still fits amid lands unchanged for a long time. Walking this way is like walking through history, each pass filled with the steps of old traders, travel folk, and herders from long ago.

Nearby Places around Rumtse to Tso Moriri Trek

• Rumtse Village: Rumtse is where the walk starts, about 76 km from Leh on the Leh–Manali road. This small Ladakhi town is set in rough brown hills and shows the first look of life up high. It's known for its barley lands, mud-brick homes, and kind people. Rumtse is a place to get used to the air and learn about the culture before moving into the wild.

• Kyagar Tso: Before getting to Tso Moriri, walkers often come by Kyagar Tso, a smaller yet just as lovely high lake. Its deep blue water stands out against the bare hills, making a dream-like view. In summer, you can see birds like bar-headed geese and Brahminy ducks here.

• Tso Moriri Lake: The main part of the trek, Tso Moriri, is a beautiful freshwater lake at 4,522 meters. About 28 km long, it's one of India's biggest high lakes. Its clear waters change colours all day, mirroring the snowy peaks. The lake is also under the Ramsar Convention as a safe place for rare animals and birds.

• Korzok Monastery: On Tso Moriri's edge, Korzok Monastery is 300 years old and is part of the Drukpa Tibetan Buddhism. It's key for the nomadic Changpa people and holds the Korzok Gustor fest, known for bright mask dances.

• Tso Kar Lake: Not right on the path, but Tso Kar, known as the “White Lake,” is a stop for many going to or from the area. Known for its salt, unique animals, and pretty sights. This salty lake is great for bird lovers and photographers.

Best Time to Visit Rumtse to Tso Moriri Trek

• June to September – Best Trek Time: June to September is when to go on the Rumtse to Tso Moriri walk. High paths are snow-free, and the days are stable. Daytimes are good for walking, and nature is bright, with green lands, wildflowers, and clear skies. More animals are seen, and Tso Moriri’s blue waters look stunning.

• July and August – Top Beauty: July and August are the best for this walk. It's warmer, streams run with ice melt, and the Changpa camps are busy. You can see their way of living. This is also when you see birds like the black-necked crane and bar-headed goose by the lakes.

• Early September – Calm and Clear: Early September has clear skies, fresh air, and fewer people, great for those who like it quiet. It gets a bit colder, but the paths are still open. Fall colours start with golden-brown lands, adding to the beauty of the Changthang area.

• Avoid Winter and Early Spring: From October to May, it's very cold, with temperatures way below zero. Heavy snow shuts high paths, making the walk too risky. Even locals move down at this time, and there are few services.

How to Reach Rumtse to Tso Moriri Trek

• By Airport: Rumtse's near the airport is Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport (IXL) in Leh, about 76 km away. Leh has flights from big Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Srinagar. From Leh, you can take a taxi or bus on the Leh–Manali road to Rumtse.

• By Road – From Leh: You can get to Rumtse by road from Leh via the Leh–Manali road. The ride takes about 1.5–2 hours by taxi or bus, with great views of Ladakh’s hills and landscape. You can find shared taxis and buses in Leh, but it’s better to use a private car for ease.

• By Road – From Manali: From Himachal Pradesh, go from Manali to Rumtse on the Leh–Manali road, going over high passes like Baralacha La and Tanglang La. This ride takes about 2 days, with a stop in Keylong or Sarchu. But, it's best to get used to the air in Leh first to avoid air sickness.

Why Book with escape2explore

When exploring the Rumtse to Tso Moriri Trek and beyond, escape2explore stands out as a trusted name in adventure and experiential travel. Here’s why hundreds of travellers choose us for their getaways:

• Trusted, Well-Reviewed Local Operator: escape2explore has gained the trust of thousands of content tourists all over India. With persistent positive feedback and an unblemished reputation for delivering quality experiences, we assure you that your experience will be hassle-free, memorable, and value-packed. Our insider local knowledge guarantees that you will always be in safe hands.

• Seasoned Guides: Our trips are led by friendly, trained, and professional guides who are passionate about the outdoors and your safety. Whether it's a beach trek, a cultural tour, or a spiritual walk through temples, our team knows the terrain, the stories, and how to make each moment count.

• Safe & Curated Itineraries: Your safety is our number one priority. Our tour packages are thoughtfully crafted with safety measures, researched accommodations, and easy travel arrangements. We take care of the details so you can have the experience hassle-free and worry-free.

• Unique Experience That You Won't Find Anywhere Else: With escape2explore, you discover more than the tourist attractions. We go off the beaten track with hidden beaches, unusual treks, offbeat cultural destinations, and true interactions.