The Offbeat Circuit
Leh Chumathang Tso Moriri (Korzok) Puga Valley Tso Kar Lake Tanglang La Pass Leh
Tour Overview
Break away from the usual tourist crowds and dive deep into the raw, untouched wilderness of the Changthang Plateau. Our 02 Nights / 03 Days Offbeat Ladakh Tour Package is an add-on circuit perfectly designed for travelers who have already acclimatized in Leh and wish to explore Ladakh's rarest gems: the twin high-altitude lakes of Tso Moriri and Tso Kar.
Your journey begins with a scenic drive alongside the mighty Indus River, stopping at the natural hot springs of Chumathang before reaching the sacred Tso Moriri Lake (14,836 ft). Surrounded by snow-capped peaks and the nomadic Changpa tribe, this wetland conservation reserve offers unparalleled serenity.
The true offbeat adventure continues as you traverse the lunar-like landscapes of the Puga Geothermal Valley to reach Tso Kar, famously known as the "White Lake" due to its thick salt deposits. The expedition concludes with a thrilling drive across the vast, endless stretches of the Moore Plains and over the towering Tanglang La Pass (17,480 ft) back to Leh.
High Altitude Wilderness Safety & Permits
The Changthang region averages an altitude of over 14,500 ft. Prerequisite: Travelers must have spent at least 2-3 days acclimatizing in Leh prior to this tour. We secure the mandatory Inner Line Permits (ILP) required for Tso Moriri. Our expert local drivers are equipped with emergency Oxygen Cylinders and First Aid kits to ensure a completely safe expedition in this remote wilderness.
Tour Highlights
- Camp beside the serene and sacred Tso Moriri Lake, a high-altitude wetland reserve.
- Witness the natural boiling hot sulphur springs at Chumathang and Puga Valley.
- Explore the stunning white salt shores of Tso Kar Lake, famous for bird watching.
- Conquer Tanglang La Pass (17,480 ft), the second-highest motorable pass on the Manali-Leh highway.
- Drive across the mesmerizing, flat stretches of the Moore Plains situated at 15,400 ft.
- Visit the ancient Korzok Monastery overlooking Tso Moriri lake.
Day-wise Itinerary
After an early breakfast at your hotel in Leh, we commence our journey towards the remote Changthang plateau. The drive follows the course of the mighty Indus River, offering spectacular views of the valley.
En-route Highlights & Monuments:
- Chumathang Hot Springs: Stop to witness the natural hot sulphur springs boiling right next to the icy cold waters of the Indus River.
- Mahe Bridge: We cross the river here to officially enter the Changthang region.
- Korzok Monastery: Upon arriving at Tso Moriri, visit this 300-year-old Tibetan Buddhist monastery situated in Korzok village.
- Tso Moriri Lake (14,836 ft): A pristine, deep blue lake that is a vital breeding ground for migratory birds like the Black-necked Crane.
Check into your camp or guesthouse in Korzok. Enjoy a peaceful evening walk along the lake. Overnight stay at Tso Moriri.
Wake up to a mesmerizing sunrise over Tso Moriri. After breakfast, we embark on a relatively short but incredibly scenic and rugged drive towards our next destination, the White Lake.
Natural Monuments & Highlights Covered:
- Polo Kongka La (16,140 ft): Cross this high-altitude pass offering panoramic views of the barren landscape.
- Puga Geothermal Valley: A fascinating, lunar-like valley known for its active geothermal hot springs, bubbling mud pools, and borax deposits.
- Tso Kar Lake (14,860 ft): Arrive at the "White Lake," named for the thick crusts of white salt surrounding its shores. Keep an eye out for Kiangs (Tibetan wild asses) and Marmots.
Check into your camp at Tso Kar (usually in the nearby Thukje village). The area is exceptionally dark and quiet, perfect for stargazing. Overnight stay at Tso Kar.
After a hearty breakfast, we begin our return journey to Leh. Instead of backtracking, we connect to the famous Leh-Manali highway, turning this trip into a complete circuit.
Route Highlights Covered:
- Moore Plains (15,400 ft): Drive across a stunning 40 km stretch of flat, straight road amidst the towering mountains—a surreal driving experience.
- Tanglang La Pass (17,480 ft): Conquer the second-highest motorable pass on the Manali-Leh highway. Stop briefly for photographs with the iconic yellow milestone.
Descend from the pass, passing through picturesque villages like Rumtse and Upshi, to finally arrive back in Leh by the afternoon. We drop you at your Leh hotel, concluding this incredible offbeat Changthang expedition.
Package Inclusions
- 02 Nights Accommodation (01N Tso Moriri, 01N Tso Kar Camps/Guesthouse)
- MAP Meal Plan (Breakfast & Dinner at stays)
- Exclusive 4x4 SUV (Innova/Xylo/Scorpio) for the entire 3-day circuit
- Highly experienced local driver skilled in off-road terrains
- Emergency Oxygen Cylinder inside the vehicle
- Pick-up and Drop-off at your hotel in Leh
- Mandatory Inner Line Permits (ILP) for the Changthang Region
Package Exclusions
- Hotel accommodation in Leh (can be added on request)
- Monument or Monastery Entry Fees
- Lunches throughout the 3-day tour
- Medical contingencies or expenses due to roadblocks
- Personal expenses, travel insurance, tips, and heating charges at camps
Frequently Asked Questions
No. The Changthang region (Tso Moriri and Tso Kar) is at an extremely high altitude (avg 14,500+ ft). It is mandatory to spend at least 2 to 3 days in Leh (11,500 ft) for acclimatization before undertaking this circuit to prevent Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS).
The roads are a mix of smooth tarmac and completely off-road dirt tracks. The stretch from Sumdo to Tso Moriri, and Puga to Tso Kar involves driving on unpaved terrain. This is a true offbeat adventure, hence we strictly use robust 4x4 SUVs.
Mobile network is practically non-existent in this remote region. Only post-paid BSNL networks might work sporadically in Korzok village (Tso Moriri), but it is highly unreliable. Consider this a complete digital detox.
Because this is an offbeat and highly protected ecological zone, large concrete luxury hotels do not exist here. Accommodation is provided in premium Swiss Tents, basic guesthouses, or homestays which are clean, comfortable, and equipped with basic necessities.
