Tso Moriri, translating to "Mountain Lake," is a breathtaking high-altitude endorheic lake located in the Changthang plateau of Ladakh, India. Situated at an elevation of 4,522 meters (14,836 feet), it is one of the highest altitude lakes in India and remains remarkably pristine due to its remote location. The region surrounding the lake, anchored by the ancient village of Korzok, is steeped in the rich cultural traditions of the Tibetan Buddhist Changpa nomads, who have roamed these harsh landscapes with their herds of pashmina goats for centuries.
Unlike the more famous Pangong Tso, Tso Moriri is entirely within Indian territory, offering a quieter, more deeply contemplative experience for visitors who make the arduous journey from Leh. In 2002, recognizing its unique ecological significance as a breeding ground for rare avian species, the lake was designated a Ramsar Wetland of International Importance. Tso Moriri represents a delicate intersection of spectacular natural beauty, fragile alpine ecology, and an ancient, resilient human culture.