What makes the Rumtse to Tso Moriri Trek unique?

This trek offers a remote, untouched experience in Ladakh, far from crowded trails. It combines thrilling challenges like seven high-altitude passes (above 5,000 meters) with rare wildlife sightings and breathtaking landscapes like rainbow mountains and glacial rivers.

Is this trek suitable for beginners?

No, it’s graded "Challenging" and recommended for experienced trekkers due to high-altitude terrain, steep ascents, and rugged conditions.

What wildlife might I encounter?

The trek passes through the Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary, where you might spot Tibetan wild asses (kiangs), blue sheep, marmots, and, with luck, the elusive snow leopard.

When is the ideal time for the Rumtse to Tso Moriri Trek?

June to mid-September is the best time, with pleasant weather, lush meadows, and flowing streams.

How should I prepare physically?

Build excellent endurance and stamina through cardio, hiking, and altitude training. Acclimatize in Leh for 2–3 days before starting the trek.

Are altitude risks a concern?

Yes. Proper acclimatization is non-negotiable. Symptoms of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) can be severe, so ascend gradually and stay hydrated.

What permits are required?

An Inner Line Permit is mandatory for Tso Moriri, obtainable in Leh.

Hiring a local guide is highly recommended for safety, navigation, cultural insights, and compliance with conservation rules in the sanctuary.

How does the trek support conservation?

The route traverses the Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary, a protected area. Trekkers must follow Leave No Trace principles to preserve fragile ecosystems and respect wildlife habitats.

What’s camping like on this trek?

Enjoy pristine wilderness camping under star-filled skies, surrounded by alpine meadows and snow-capped peaks.

9-Day Rumtse To Tsomoriri Trek - Eco India Journeys

9-Day Rumtse To Tsomoriri Trek is a high-altitude treks. Trek spans 98km guiding adventurers through the untouched Changthang Valley.

Accomodation
Tents
Best Season
June to mid-September
Guide
Professional Local Trek Guide
Meals
Tea, Snacks, Breakfast, Packed Lunch & Dinner
Transportation
Priviate Car/Mules
Group Size
2 - 8
Destinations
Leh Ladakh
Activities
Trekking in Ladakh
Trip Type
Trekking
Difficulty
Hard

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Trek Overview

9-Day Rumtse To Tsomoriri Trek

The 9-Day Rumtse To Tsomoriri Trek spans 98 km, guiding adventurers through the untouched Changthang Valley and across seven high-altitude passes, each exceeding 5,000 meters. This offbeat trek unveils the pristine beauty of Tso Moriri and Tso Kar Lakes, along with vast alpine landscapes and vibrant meadows. Often hailed as a “four-season trek in Ladakh,” it offers breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, winding rivers, and dramatic barren landscapes.

This 9-Day Rumtse to Tsomoriri Trek is a deep dive into Ladakh’s rugged wilderness, blending adventure with the rich nomadic culture of the region. It demands high fitness levels, proper acclimatization, and a spirit for exploration.

If you are looking for an adventure in Leh-Ladakh with less challenging you may check 6-Day Markha Valley Trek

Trek Highlights

Remote & Untouched: Experience Ladakh’s best offbeat trek, far from crowded trails.
Seven High Passes Above 5,000 Meters: A true Himalayan challenge for seasoned trekkers.
Rare Wildlife Sightings: Spot wild asses, blue sheep, marmots, and even elusive snow leopard if lucky .
Photographer’s Paradise: Capture stunning rainbow mountains, glacial rivers, and vast alpine meadows.
Incredible Camping Experience: Sleep under the stars in pristine high-altitude wilderness.

Day 01 :

Leh to Rumtse

Distance: 75 km
Duration: Approx. 2.5-hour drive
Altitude: 3,500m (Leh) to 4,150m (Rumtse)

Today you drive Leh to Rumtse, the road winds past the Indus River, ancient Buddhist monasteries, and remote villages.

Upon arrival at Rumtse, trekkers are greeted by a serene landscape, where traditional Ladakhi homes, grazing pastures, and fluttering prayer flags create a postcard-perfect setting. At an altitude of 4,150 meters, this is where the body begins its crucial acclimatization process, essential for the days ahead. Overnight in a camping tent.

Day 02 :

Rumtse to Kyamar - A Journey Through Ladakh’s Salt Road

Distance: Approximately 10 km
Duration: 4-5 hours
Altitude: 4,150 meters to 4,850 meters

The adventure begins at Rumtse, branching off the highway to cross a stream into the unfolding vistas of Changthang Valley.

The first stretch is a gentle, flat walk along a winding river, where bursts of wildflowers contrast Ladakh’s signature arid terrain. As the valley widens, soak in the surreal, wave-like landscapes of the region. The day ends with a gradual climb to Kyamar’s campsite, offering 360° views of rugged ridges and open skies. Overnight in tents.

Day 03 :

Kyamar to Tisaling via Kyamar La and Mandalchan La

Distance: Approximately 15 km
Duration: 8-9 hours
Altitude: 4,850 meters to 5,150 meters (Kyamar La) to 5,250 meters (Mandalchan La) to 5,030 meters (Tisaling)

Today's trek is a challenging one, featuring a significant elevation gain and the crossing of two high passes, but it promises to be a rewarding experience. The trail begins in a new valley with a gradual climb toward Kyamar La Pass.

The initial section of the trail winds through a desert-like landscape before reaching the pass, which is marked by prayer flags. To the south of the pass, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of the Kang Yatse peak, along with numerous other snow-capped peaks in the distance.

At Kyamar La Pass, the terrain begins to display a stunning array of colors, resembling a rainbow mountain. From here, the trail gently descends, offering the first awe-inspiring view of the Changthang Valley's unique landscape. After crossing a stream, the path takes you on a steady ascent to the second pass of the day—and the trek—Mandalchan La. A descent after the pass leads you to the expansive campsite at Tisaling, where you may spot wild asses and blue sheep roaming freely. Overnight stay in tents.

Day 04 :

Tisaling to Pongunagu via Shibuk La

Distance: Approximately 15 km
Duration: 6-7hours
Altitude: 5,030 meters to 5,370 meters (Shibuk La) to 4,590 meters (Pongunagu)

Leaving behind the Tisaling campsite, we begin our climb over the Shibuk La Pass, the third pass of our trek. With a moderately steep yet steady ascent, we reach the breathtaking Rupshu Plateau and continue our journey towards the Tso Kar campsite, passing through the long stretch to Ponganagu.

The first part of the trail features a gentle descent, followed by a flat section and a moderate ascent, ultimately revealing the first view of Tso Kar Lake—also known as the White Lake due to its high salt content. The trail begins in lush green terrain, with a carpet of grass and shrubs, before transitioning into a desert-like landscape.

This vast, open terrain highlights the immense beauty of the Rupshu Plateau and the expansive Changthang Valley. Our day concludes at the Tso Kar campsite, where we rest for the night. Overnight stay in tents.

This adventure offers an unforgettable experience, combining diverse landscapes, from grassy fields to striking desert vistas. The trek through Rupshu Plateau and Changthang Valley brings you closer to nature's grandeur, and the Tso Kar Lake, with its unique salt composition, provides a stunning highlight of the journey.

Day 05 :

Pongunagu to Nuruchan

Distance: Approximately 18 km
Duration: 5-6 hours
Altitude: 4,590 meters (Pongunagu) to 4,690 meters( Nuruchan)

Today's trek is a long but relatively easy journey, taking you along the stunning lakes of Tso Kar and Startsapuk Tso, ultimately reaching the Nuruchan campsite. The trail is mostly flat, with a few gentle ascents and descents throughout the day.

Tso Kar Lake stands out with its white appearance, caused by its high salt content, offering a unique and picturesque landscape. Along the way, you’ll catch glimpses of traditional nomadic settlements, providing a glimpse into the local culture. As you trek, the landscape opens up to vast acres of land, with towering snow-capped peaks slowly emerging in the distance.

Since there are no water sources along the trail, it's important to carry plenty of water. After a long walk, we cross a cold river before reaching the Nuruchan campsite, where we settle in for the night. Overnight stay in tents.

This trek provides a serene yet captivating experience, surrounded by the beauty of high-altitude lakes, stunning landscapes, and remote nomadic life. The journey through Tso Kar and Startsapuk Tso promises unforgettable views and a tranquil escape into nature.

Day 06 :

Nuruchan (15,254 ft) to Gyamar Barma (17,074 ft) via Kyamayuri La (17,713 ft) - 18 km, 7-8 hours.

Today, we begin our trek towards the Nomadic settlement of Rajun Karu, with a gradual ascent that crosses streams along the way. The trail follows a winding river, flanked by snowy mountains on both sides, and from this point onward, the Changthang Valley reveals its breathtaking scenery. Be prepared for unpredictable weather conditions and ensure you have rainproof jackets and covers for your gear.

After a steady but steep incline, the trail descends to Rajun Karu, where you’ll encounter numerous camps of the Changthang nomads, with Yaks and Pashmina Goats grazing peacefully in the pastures. From Rajun Karu, the trail continues across the fourth pass of the trek, the challenging Kyamayuri La. Following this taxing pass, a long, gradual descent leads you to the Gyamar Barma campsite—arguably the most beautiful campsite of the entire trek, surrounded by stunning peaks. However, keep in mind that this campsite is also the windiest of the journey.

At Gyamar Barma, you’ll have the opportunity to interact with the local Changthang Nomads and meet the “cowboys” of Changthang, renowned for their horsemanship. Overnight stay in tents.

This trek offers an immersive experience into the life of the nomads of Changthang, combined with some of the most picturesque landscapes you'll encounter on the journey.

Day 07 :

Gyamar Barma (17,074 ft) to Gyamar (16,787 ft) via Kartse La (17,614 ft) - 8 km, 3-4 hours.

Today's trek is the shortest of the entire journey. The trail begins across the river, passing through the Gyamar Barma campsite, and leads you to the steepest pass of the trek, the fifth pass, Kartse La. Halfway up the climb, you’ll be treated to a stunning view of the Gyamar Barma campsite in its full glory, complete with a winding river, towering snow-capped peaks, grazing Yaks and Pashmina goats, wild asses and marmots darting around, and nomads with their horses.

After this breathtaking view, the steep ascent continues until you reach the pass, followed by a gradual descent to the campsite of Gyamar, known for its many rivers and streams. Overnight stay in tents.

This shorter trek offers some of the most picturesque landscapes, showcasing the beauty of the valley, the wildlife, and the life of the Changthang nomads. It’s a perfect opportunity to experience the tranquil charm of the region while taking in the stunning natural surroundings.

Day 08 :

Gyamar (16,787 ft) to Karzok (14,890 ft) via Yalung Nyau La (17,760 ft) - 20 km, 8-9 hours.

Today marks the longest and most challenging part of the trek. The trail from Gyamar begins with a steady ascent leading to the sixth pass of the journey, Yalung Nyau. This climb is a gradual yet lengthy rise alongside a river, surrounded by sharply jagged mountains. After crossing the river several times, the path takes a sudden turn, leading you up a moderately steep incline to the pass.

Upon reaching the pass, you'll be greeted by the breathtaking sight of Tso Moriri Lake's deep blue waters, a stunning view that will surely captivate you. But the adventure doesn't end there. The trail continues with a steep descent over a rugged landscape, which eventually flattens out, guiding you toward the final destination of the trek—Karzok.

The mesmerizing freshwater lake of Tso Moriri rests peacefully, encircled by majestic mountains. Take a relaxing walk along the shores and soak in the serene atmosphere of this beautiful location. Overnight stay in tents.

This segment of the trek offers an unforgettable experience, featuring stunning views of Tso Moriri Lake and the surrounding landscape. It's the perfect opportunity to appreciate the tranquility of nature and the beauty of the region.

Day 09 :

Karzok to Leh - 215 km, 8-9 hours drive.

Our vehicles will depart from Korzok at 7 AM for the journey back to Leh. The drive will take approximately 8-9 hours, with scenic views along the way. You can expect to arrive in Leh by evening.

This comfortable and scenic drive offers a relaxing conclusion to your trek, providing an opportunity to unwind and enjoy the beautiful landscapes of the region as you make your way back to Leh.