Tso Morriri
Known as the ‘mountain lake’, Tso Moriri is located in
Changthang region, about 240 kms southeast of Leh.
Surrounded by the Trans-Himalayan range and the Greater
Himalayas, it is one of the highest lakes in the world
situated at an approximate altitude of 4,500m. It is
about 30 kms long and 8 kms wide. The amazing colours of
the water against the stark backdrop of barren hills and
snow-capped mountains, gives this lake its character.
Because of the absence of continuous slopes for good
drainage of water, the snow of the winter melts during
summer and collects in basins, to form brackish lakes in
this region. Tso Moriri is a fresh to brackish water
lake.
It is a breeding ground for a number of birds such as
the Black-necked Crane, bar-headed Goose, and the Ruddy
Shelduck. It is unique with respect to the flora and
fauna it supports, and as a result of being in the
middle of a cold desert, a number of birds and animals
come for a drink.
The Korzok monastery to the west of the lake is said to
be one of the oldest settlements of the world.
Pang Gong Tso
Situated at a height of about 4,300m Pangong Tso is the
largest brackish lake in Asia, with a larger part of it
extending into Tibet. It is 130 kms long and 5 kms at
its widest point. Despite being a salt-water lake, it
freezes completely during winter. There is no marine
life here, save for a few migrating birds now and then
like gulls and brahminy ducks.
Being in the border, the furthest point one is allowed
to go to, is Spangmik, about 7 kms along its western
bank, but it is enough to take back the most beautiful
memories of Ladakh. The very barren-ness and vastness of
the area contributes to its striking beauty.
It is an approximate 6-hour jeep ride from Leh, and
since there are no facilities here, it is a good idea to
bring a packed lunch for a day-trip.
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Tso Kar
Tso Kar or ‘white lake’ is a brackish salt-water lake
and is located about 70 kms west of Tso Moriri in the
Rupsu valley. This is a much smaller lake compared to
the Tso Moriri but like most mountain scenery in Ladakh,
it is beautiful and pristine.
The Tso Kar area is inhabited by the Khampas, a nomadic
group that live in large tents in summers, and in solid
stone huts to brave the winter. Known as Chinese
cowboys, they are basically herdsmen and rear cattle
such as yaks, cows and goats.
What is also appealing about this area is the abundance
of wildlife. Commonly seen are kiangs (wild asses),
foxes and marmots, and an occasional Tibetan wolf. This
is the most accessible region in Ladakh for viewing
wildlife as the terrain in other parts can be very
harsh.
Chandertaal Lake
Wish to explore a completely untouched and virgin water
body amidst the mighty ranges of the Himalayas? Trek to
the famous Chandratal lake (the Moon Lake) and you will
feel like going to the moon. This deep blue coloured
lake is one of the most beautiful & spectacular lakes in
the Indian subcontinent. Being located at an altitude of
about 4300 m (14,500 feet above sea level), the lake is
a favourite spot of nature lovers, adventure enthusiasts
and almost all the vacationers.
Located about 6 km from the Kunzum Pass in Spiti and
Lahaul district, the lake is the source of the Chandra
river. The best part of the lake is that it changes its
colour from reddish to orange, blue and emerald green as
the day passes. Chandratal Lake Camp is a dream
destination for adventure lovers with a number of
trekking tents, toilet tents, dining tent and a complete
kitchen tent offering a variety of Indian, Chinese &
Continental cuisines. The Camp is operational in Summer
season till September. Chandratal Lake offers excellent
views of Mulkila mountain range and Samudra Tapu
Glacier.
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