Tso Moriri

Tso Moriri, also known as Lake Moriri or Mountain Lake, is a stunning high-altitude lake nestled in the remote Changthang Plateau of Ladakh, India. Situated at an elevation of over 4,500 meters, it is one of the highest lakes in the world and the largest entirely within Indian territory.

The lake stretches approximately 26 kilometers in length and up to 8 kilometers in width, surrounded by snow-capped peaks and barren hills that create a surreal and tranquil landscape. Despite its saline nature, the lake supports a unique ecosystem and has been designated as a Ramsar Wetland Site due to its ecological significance.

It serves as a breeding ground for several rare and endangered bird species, including the black-necked crane and bar-headed goose. The surrounding area is also home to Himalayan marmots, Tibetan wild asses (kiangs), and occasionally, the elusive snow leopard.

The only permanent settlement near the lake is the village of Korzok, which hosts a 400-year-old monastery and offers a glimpse into the traditional lifestyle of the Changpa nomads. These pastoral communities rely on the land for grazing and have lived in harmony with the harsh environment for generations.