Quick Answer
Tso Moriri, a high-altitude lake at about 4,520 m in Changthang: distance from Leh, the route via Chumathang, Korzok village, where to stay, permits and the altitude risk.
Tso Moriri lies in the Changthang plateau of eastern Ladakh at about 4,520 m, roughly 220 km south-east of Leh. The lake is around 26 km long and ringed by bare mountains above 6,000 m. It is a protected wetland, home to bar-headed geese, black-necked cranes and herds of the Changpa nomads' sheep, goats and yaks. On its western shore is Korzok, a small village with a monastery and one of the highest permanent settlements in the region.
Quick answer
Tso Moriri is about 220 km from Leh (6 to 7 hours) via Upshi and Chumathang, at roughly 4,520 m. Stay at least one night in Korzok or nearby camps, and only after 3 or more days in Leh. A protected-area registration is needed. Best season: June to September.
Route and distances
| Route | Distance | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Leh to Tso Moriri via Upshi, Chumathang and Mahe | About 220 km | 6 to 7 hours |
| Tso Moriri to Tso Kar | About 110 km | 3.5 to 4 hours |
| Tso Moriri to Hanle (via Mahe and Nyoma) | About 160 km | 4.5 to 5 hours |
| Pangong to Tso Moriri (via Chushul and Mahe) | About 240 km | 7 to 8 hours, rough in parts |
Chumathang has hot springs by the Indus and is a good tea stop. Many travellers combine Tso Moriri with Tso Kar and Hanle, or link it to Pangong on a longer loop.
Where to stay
Korzok village has homestays and a few guesthouses; tented camps operate near the lake in summer. Facilities are basic, nights are cold even in July, and electricity may be limited to evening hours. Carry warm layers and a torch.
Altitude: the main risk
At about 4,520 m, Tso Moriri is higher than Pangong. Altitude sickness is the main reason trips here go wrong. Do not come here directly from Leh on your first or second day.
Leh sits at about 3,500 m. Spend your first 36 to 48 hours resting in Leh before going higher, drink plenty of water, and avoid alcohol. Anyone with a heart or lung condition should ask their doctor before travelling.
Permits
Indian citizens register online and pay the Ladakh environment and wildlife fees before visiting protected areas such as Nubra, Pangong, Tso Moriri, Hanle and Turtuk; foreign nationals need a Protected Area Permit through a registered agent. Rules and fees change, so check our permits guide before you travel.
Best time to visit
June to September, when roads are open and camps operate. From October nights fall well below freezing, and by winter the lake freezes and most services close.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is Tso Moriri from Leh?
About 220 km via Upshi and Chumathang, a 6 to 7 hour drive.
What is the altitude of Tso Moriri?
About 4,520 m, higher than Pangong.
Do I need a permit for Tso Moriri?
Yes. Indians register and pay protected-area fees online; foreign nationals need a Protected Area Permit.
Tso Moriri or Pangong: which is better?
Pangong is more famous and easier to reach; Tso Moriri is quieter, wilder and higher. Many travellers who have time do both.
Can I do Tso Moriri as a day trip from Leh?
Not sensibly. It is 12 to 14 hours of driving round trip at high altitude; stay at least one night.
Where do I stay at Tso Moriri?
In homestays or guesthouses in Korzok village, or in summer tented camps near the lake.
Written by Via Kashmir Editorial Team
Last checked 2026
Via Kashmir is a Srinagar-based travel company built around one goal: giving travellers the best possible Kashmir experience. Our team puts together the best-priced hotels, cabs, Kashmir tour packages, and adventure packages with real sports activities, drawing on daily, on-the-ground knowledge of Kashmir's roads, weather, and seasons. Every guide on this site is written and checked by our local Srinagar team.