Tso Moriri

Tso Moriri is a high-altitude lake on the Changthang Plateau in Ladakh, near Korzok village at about 4,522 metres above sea level. About 28 km long and 4-8 km wide, it is the largest high-altitude lake entirely within India and a designated Ramsar Wetland. Surrounded by barren mountains and Changpa nomadic pastures, it is noted for migratory birds, clear reflections and proximity to the 300-year-old Korzok Monastery.

Visitors can expect a vast, serene high-altitude brackish lake surrounded by barren, snow-capped mountains and open Changthang grasslands at over 4,500 metres. The shoreline is undeveloped with no boating or water sports; access is limited to designated viewing areas near Korzok village on the western bank. The area offers wide panoramic views, reflections of mountains in clear water, sightings of migratory birds like bar-headed geese and black-necked cranes, Changpa nomadic encampments with yak and pashmina goats, and the Korzok Monastery overlooking the lake.

The lake area has been inhabited for centuries by Changpa nomads. Korzok Monastery on the western bank, belonging to the Drukpa lineage of Tibetan Buddhism, was re-established in the 19th century (around 1851-1856) and serves as the cultural centre for the region. The lake was declared a Wetland Reserve and later a Ramsar Site in 2002 due to its ecological importance.

Tso Moriri is considered sacred in local Buddhist tradition. The Korzok Monastery hosts the annual Korzok Gustor festival with cham dances. The surrounding Changthang pastures sustain the Changpa nomadic community known for rearing Changthangi goats producing pashmina wool, reflecting a traditional pastoral culture.