NOMADIC TRAILS

Booking Overview Highlights Includes/Excludes Cancellation Faqs Services Reviews

Overview

Duration:11 days 0 nights

The Rumtse to Tso Moriri Trek is one of the most extraordinary high-altitude treks in Ladakh, offering a stunning mix of dramatic landscapes, rare Himalayan wildlife, and authentic cultural encounters.

Starting from the picturesque village of Rumtse at 4,100 meters, trekkers are welcomed into a world of alpine meadows, lush summer greenery, and towering Himalayan mountains—an unforgettable introduction to this iconic Ladakh trekking route.

As the trail advances into the remote Changthang plateau, it reveals a rich diversity of habitats and breathtaking terrain. This region is home to several of Ladakh’s iconic wildlife species, including the Himalayan wolf, Tibetan wild dog, kiang (wild ass), Himalayan marmot, and the magnificent Tibetan argali.

Lucky trekkers may witness these rare animals in their natural environment, adding a sense of wonder and excitement to the journey. Cultural immersion is another highlight of the trek.

Ancient monasteries along the route provide a peaceful glimpse into Ladakh’s Buddhist heritage, offering moments of reflection against the backdrop of rugged Himalayan landscapes.

The renowned campsites—Kyamar, Tisaling, and Rachungkharu—are surrounded by pristine skies, crystal-clear views, and sweeping valleys. These serene camping spots allow adventurers to fully absorb the tranquillity and untouched beauty of the Ladakhi wilderness.

Overall, the Rumtse to Tso Moriri Trek is a remarkable expedition for trekkers seeking an authentic Himalayan experience.

With its awe-inspiring scenery, rare wildlife encounters, cultural richness, and insights into traditional nomadic life, this trek stands out as one of the best trekking routes in Ladakh and leaves a lasting impression on every traveler.

Day on the Trek

Each morning, you’ll be gently awakened around 6:30 am with a cup of tea brought to your tent, followed by a small bowl of warm water for washing.

Before breakfast, you'll pack your gear into your kit bag, which will be taken by pack animals or porters, and you won’t have access to it until you reach camp later in the afternoon.

After a hearty breakfast, we usually hit the trail between 7:30 and 8:00 am, depending on the day’s trek. We’ll typically walk for 3 to 4 hours before breaking for a one-hour lunch, with some staff walking ahead to select a good spot for our rest.

The afternoon walk is usually shorter, and we typically reach camp between 3:30 and 4:30 pm.

Once camp is set up and the kitchen is ready, afternoon tea will be served. You’ll then have time to rest or explore the surrounding area until dinner, which is usually served between 6:00 and 7:00 pm.

Be sure to bring your headlamp and water bottles to the dining tent so they can be filled with boiling water.

Evenings on the trek offer some of the most memorable moments, whether it's chatting with fellow trekkers, playing cards, engaging with the local crew, or even joining in some singing and dancing. Much of the joy of an expedition lies in the journey itself.

Immerse yourself in the natural beauty and cultural richness of Ladakh’s remote trails
Experience the spectacular high-altitude trek from Rumtse to Tso Moriri
Spot unique wildlife of the Changthang region, including rare Himalayan species
Discover the traditional nomadic lifestyle of the Changpa herders
Enjoy breathtaking views of the Mt. Changer and Lungser Massif, rising above 6,600 meters
Explore the diverse flora and fauna that thrive along the route to Tso Moriri
Create lifelong memories on an unforgettable Himalayan adventure
Visit the pristine lakes of Tso Kar and Tso Moriri
Conquer seven impressive high passes above 5,000 meters

Itinerary

Day 1 Arrival in Leh

Time:
Distance:
Elevation Leh : 3500m
Upon arrival in Leh, check in at your hotel and take the day to rest and acclimatize to the high altitude. In the evening, head out to visit Shanti Stupa, Tsemo Monastery and Leh Market. Overnight stay at Deluxe Hotel.

Day 2 Alchi & Lamayuru Monastery visit

Time: 3hrs Drive
Distance: 140km
Elevation Lamayuru : 3550m
On this day, we’ll enjoy a scenic drive through Ladakh, visiting the 1,000-year-old Alchi Monastery, renowned for its ancient art and serene atmosphere. Continuing onward, we head to Lamayuru, famous for its dramatic, moon-like landscapes—often called Moonland. Along the way, we’ll pause at stunning viewpoints, including the iconic confluence of the Indus and Zanskar Rivers, where the two mighty waterways meet. The day concludes with an overnight stay at a hotel in Lamayuru.

Day 3 Acclimatization walk

Time: 3-4hrs trek
Distance: 8 km
Elevation: gain/ loss: +182m/ -m
we take an acclimatization hike from Lamayuru to Wanla, crossing the scenic Prinkiti La 3732m Pass. The trek lasts about 3–4 hours and offers beautiful views of the surrounding landscape. From Wanla, we drive back to Leh, stopping en route to explore the historic Saspol Caves before returning to the city

Day 4 Rumtse - Kyamar Trek

Time: 5 hrs Trek / 2 Hrs Drive
Distance: 12.4 km
Elevation gain / loss: +340m / -0m
Today start drive to the Rumtse trekking point and meeting your kitchen team and horseman, you begin your trek. The trail starts on a dusty path that curves into Kyamar Valley, passing the confluence of Chhaba Chu and Kyamar Stream. You’ll cross a few easy rivulets and walk through green marshlands before following a gentle left trail toward Kyamar.The route is mostly flat, shifting from marshy ground to gravel as the valley widens. After walking for about an hour, the green marshes reappear along the Kyamar Stream, marking your arrival at the Kyamar campsite(4580m).

Day 5 Kyamar - Kyamar La - Mandalchan La - Tisaling

Time: 7-8 hrs
Distance: 12.1 km
Elevation gain / loss: +630m / -270m
Today’s trail begins with a gradual ascent toward the base of Kyamar La. After a 20-minute walk, you’ll reach the center of the valley, where you follow a wide SUV track leading to the pass. It takes about an hour to reach the base, where a small stone bridge crosses the Kyamar Stream. After crossing, the trail climbs steeply, winding its way upward toward Kyamar La. The final stretch is beautifully dotted with tiny wildflowers, offering a gentle contrast to the challenging terrain.This is one of the tougher days of the trek, as you will cross two high passes. The first, Kyamar La (5,100 m), is followed by a gradual descent of about 200 meters before the trail rises again toward the second pass, Mandalchan La (5,200 m). From Mandalchan La, the route levels out for about 20 minutes before descending steadily to the campsite at 4,940 meters.

Day 6 Trek - Tisaling - Shibuk La - Ponganagu Trek

Time: 5-6 hrs
Distance: 15km
Elevation gain / loss: +335m / -725m
start early in the morning to avoid the brutal afternoon sun. The initial part of the trek involves a steady 1.5km climb to Shibuk La(5250m), which is adjacent to the campsite. The altitude gain is around 1,000 feet. Cross the stream and head to the base of Shibuk La. The trail moves south-east and the pass is clearly visible above. There are several ways to reach the summit. The straight route requires you to cross the stream towards your left and make a straight line upwards to the summit. This route is the shortest. However, the route has the maximum incline and is strenuous. The other way to go about it is to take the left side trail and reach the crest of the pass. This is a longer route but the ascent is gradual, at least initially. It takes about an hour and half to reach Shibuk La. The valley widens as you walk towards Nuruchen, a Changpa village. Looming ahead are towering Zanskar ranges, where you can easily spot the Horlam La ridge. It’s an easy but long walk all the way to Ponganagu (4550m).

Day 7 Ponganagu - Nuruchan Trek

Time: 5-6 hrs
Distance: 16.5 km
Elevation gain / loss: +129m / -m
The valley widens as you walk towards Nuruchen, a Changpa village. Looming ahead are towering Zanskar ranges, where you can easily spot the Horlam La ridge. It’s an easy but long walk all the way to Nuruchen, Nuruchen is used as a safe haven during bone-chilling winters by the Changpas. In the summers it looks like a ghost village with abandoned huts. There is a muddy stream gushing down from the Horlam La ridge, from the south west side. The rivulet is known as Nuruchen Lungpa and drains into the Tso Kar Lake. Pitch tents near the stream for the night.

Day 8 Nuruchan - Kyamayuri La - Rachung Karu Trek

Time: 3-4 hrs
Distance: 9 km
Elevation gain / loss: +271m / -m
Start our trek towards the Tibetan nomadic settlement of Rajun Karu with a gradual ascend crisscrossing streams along the way. The trail is along a meandering river with snowy mountains on either side. The Changthang valley unveils its extravagant scenery from this point onwards. Prepare for abrupt weather conditions and be equipped with rainproof jackets and covers for your bag. After a steady but steep incline followed by a descent to Rajun Karu you get to witness many camps of the Changthang nomads with Yaks and Pashmina Goats grazing on the pastures.

Day 9 Rachung Karu -Gyamar Barma - Kartse La - Gyamar

Time: 8-9 hrs
Distance: 15.2 km
Elevation gain / loss: +480m / -240m
Today’s trail crosses the challenging Kyamayuri La (5400m), followed by a gentle descent to stunning Gyamar Barma—one of the trek’s most scenic and windiest campsites, surrounded by dramatic peaks. After interacting with Changthang nomads, continue across the river and ascend the steep Kartse La(5410m). Enjoy sweeping views of valleys, rivers, and grazing wildlife before descending to the stream-filled Gyamar campsite.

Day 10 Gyamar - Yalung Nyau La - Korzok

Time: 7-8 hrs
Distance: 14.1 km
Elevation gain / loss: +280m / -840m
Today marks the longest and most challenging section of the trek. The trail from Gyamar begins with a steady but lengthy ascent toward Yalung Nyau La (5,450 m), following a river through dramatic jagged mountains. After multiple river crossings, a sharp turn leads to a steeper climb that finally brings you to the pass—where the first breathtaking view of Tso Moriri’s deep blue waters awaits.From the pass, a steep descent over rugged terrain gradually eases into flatter ground as you approach Karzok, the endpoint of the trek. The mesmerizing freshwater lake of Tso Moriri, framed by towering mountains, offers a serene finale to your journey. Spend time walking along its shores and soaking in the peaceful beauty of this high-altitude gem. Overnight stay at Korzok Phu Camp (4650m).

Day 11 Korzok - Leh

Time: 5 hrs
Distance: 220 km
Elevation Leh : 3500m
Today marks the final day of your tour. Enjoy a relaxed morning and, after breakfast, spend some time by the serene shores of Tso Moriri—taking photos and soaking in the peaceful atmosphere. Later, begin the drive back to Leh, covering 220 km on mostly smooth, black-topped roads. En route, stop to visit the natural hot springs before continuing to reach Leh by afternoon. The rest of the evening is yours to explore the markets and enjoy some last-minute shopping.

Day 12 Airport Departure

Includes/Excludes

Transportation
Airport Arrival and Departure by Private Taxi.
Trekking Drop and Pick up
Sightseeing Tours(mention on itinerary)
Accommodation
Accommodation in Leh will be provided at a hotel on a twin-sharing basis, with breakfast included
During the trek, participants will stay in shared tents, with two members accommodated per tent
Meals
During the trek, participants will be provided with three nutritious meals each day—breakfast, lunch, and dinner—along with tea and coffee served four times daily. All meals include hygienically prepared fresh vegetables, meat, fruits, juice and boiled or filtered drinking water.
Staff Members
A professional Ladakhi Mountain Guide accompanied by an experienced support crew.
Horses
Horses will be used to transport rations, supplies, and camping equipment. Personal baggage of up to 15 kg per participant will be carried by porters or mules during the trek.
Permits
Inner Line permits, monastery entry fees, national park fees, and other trekking charges related to this trip are included.
Camping Equipments
Camp equipment includes accommodation tents, foam mattresses with covers, sleeping bags with liners, one dining tent, one kitchen tent, one toilet tent, one shower tent, one staff tent, tables, chairs, and all necessary cooking equipment.

Any flights Domestic or International
Personal Equipments like Trekking boots / poles clothing etc
Lunch and dinner not include during your stay in Leh
If you arrive in leh earlier than planned or leave later than planned departure date for any reason, you need to pay or arrange extra for hotel nights.
Personal Travel Insurance or High Altitude Insurance / Medical Emergencies
Personal purchases like Alcohol / softdrinks/ bottled water
GST (5%)

NOMADIC TRAILS

Max. Elevation : 4100m

Walking Per Day : 3-5hrs

Accommodation : Homestay / Hote

Best Season : Jan - Dec

Group Size: 1- 9