TSOMO-RIRI LAKE

Acknowledged 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.

According to a story, once a nun on a yak, Tsomo was travelling across the lake and theyak suddenly started to drown. The nun managed to wade through the shore and named it “ri ri”, meaning 'come here' to the yeak. Thus the lake got its name as Tsomoriri.

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. This serene blue pallet lake is about 7 km wide at its broadest point and around 19 km long.

The vibrant shades of blue color presented by this lake along with a gorgeous landscape around provides the place an enchantingly romantic feel. Though it is very hard to survive here in winters as the place is extremely harsh.

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.

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 gets frozen completely during winter.

Acclaimed as the “Lake of the great hollow”, the Pangong Lake is situated at 160 km to the north-east of Leh across the Chang la pass. The mountain ranges at the Pangong’s north-western apex are of lime stones that seem to affect its water. There is no marine life here, save for a few migrating birds now and then like gulls and brahminy ducks.

The Crystal clear water glimmers in multitude shades of blue that depends upon its depth. With a backdrop of mountains of different colors, It presents a gorgeous sight for the Gods. 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. For the die-hard adventure enthusiasts, there is a camping spot on the shore of Pangong. The place serves as a photographers’ delight and camping is a good option if you want to view the sunset and the sunrise.

The very barren-ness and vastness of the area contributes to its striking beauty. Only a fourth of Pangong Lake is in India while towards the east, the lake is supposed to have sweet water. With the backdrop of the man and merak village combining snowy summits of the range, it offers a gorgeous view.

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.

PANGONG LAKE

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 lake is located at a high elevation of around 4500 m.

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.

Enveloped by the marshlands, the lake has gained popularity among birdwatchers. Brahmni ducks, the great crested grebe and the bar-headed geese are some of the commonly seen birds in the area. Black-necked cranes are the prime attractions of Tso Kar.

It is among the rare sites in the world with its nearly extinct birds. With a wingspan of about 8 feet, these birds create wonderful site as they take off over the green plains on the scenery of snow-covered mountains.

With hills and mountains enveloping it from all the corners, the lake itself creates an amazing view. The water of the Tso Kar Lake has no scope for leakage and that is why it is brackish.

A visit to Tso Kar comes up with the opportunity for night camping. Though there are not many tents yet tourists can easily find a room through prior booking.

TSOKAR LAKE