9 Beautiful Lakes in Leh that you Don’t Know About!

Lakes in Leh need no introduction. Popularized by the Bollywood movie 3 Idiots, Pangong Tso came to the attention of travellers from across the country and the world. After that, there was no looking back.

Set against the backdrop of the snow-capped Himalayas and golden plains, lakes in Leh are simply stunning and awe-inspiring. While some lakes in Leh are well-known amongst traveler, there are others only locals know about.

You can visit the known and unknown lakes in Leh individually, or plan an exclusive trip to these lakes. Whatever the case, these lakes must find a way in your Leh travel plan.

Ladakh is blessed with nature’s bounty and the breathtakingly beautiful lakes add vibrancy to its landscape. From freshwater lakes to saline ones, every lake has something unique to it, and each one deserves a visit for one reason or another!

Lakes in Leh: An Overview

Lakes in Leh are the major attraction of the region. Most people who visit Leh and Ladakh confine themselves to visiting only a couple of popular ones. Here’s a quick overview of the known and the lesser-known lakes in Leh.

Since most of the unknown lakes in Leh are located in restricted or protected areas, you would need a permit to visit these. Citizens of India are required to obtain an Inner Line Permit or ILP, while foreign nationals must obtain a Protected Area Permit or PAP.

9 Lesser Known Lakes in Leh 

Every year thousands of travellers visit Leh-Ladakh to witness the beauty of the barren cold desert and see for themselves the blue crystal clear waters of the Pangong Tso lake.

However, Pangong Tso is not the only lake in Leh-Ladakh. There are many other lesser-known lakes in Leh, each very different and more beautiful than the other.

1.      Chagar Tso

On the way to the famous Pangong Lake lies this beautiful and not so famous lake called Chagar Tso. It is one of the many lesser-known lakes in Leh and is fed by the waters of the glaciers. People in a hurry to reach the Pangong Tso often ignore this serene lake.

Although the Chagar Tso is a small lake, its vibe speaks for itself. The lake is also a treat to bird lovers as a vast variety of migratory birds can be spotted near the lake.

Make sure you can make a stopover here on your way to Pangong Lake. Spend some time on the banks of the lake and soak in its positivity and tranquillity.

2.      Kiagar or Kyagar Tso

The Kiagar or Kyagar Tso is situated in the Rupshu Valley of Changthang Plateau, on the road from Sumdo to Korzok. This saline Lake is also among the many lesser-known lakes in Leh.

Just like Chagar Tso, Kiagar Tso also lies ahead of a famous lake and is often ignored by travellers. It is only 30 kilometers before the Tso Moriri Lake. So, while the Tso Moriri and Pangong Tso lakes in Leh are flooded with tourists, here you can experience the serene beauty of the landscape in the true sense with little or no people around.

On a clear sunny day, you can witness the blue skies being reflected in the pristine waters. You can spot goats, sheep, Kinags (largest of the wild ass), Yak, etc, grazing around the lake. The lake is held sacred by the local nomadic tribe and you can see the Buddhist prayers inscribed on stone plates around the lake.

Off late, the water in the lake has been receding due to shrinking glaciers surrounding the mountains.

You should definitely make a stopover at this lake. Spend a few hours or pitch a tent overnight but DO NOT miss this mesmerizing lake.

3.      Kyun Tso and Ryul Tso

Located at a height of 5000 m near Hanle and Nyoma, Kyun Tso and Ryul Tso are twin lakes. These are one of the least visited and lesser-known lakes in Leh because of accessibility and permission issues. These marvellous lakes lie close to each other. While one lake is brackish, the other is sweet or fresh water.

The lakes offer a unique experience to those travellers who are seeking some quiet time. You can just sit here and see the reflections of the landscape on the blue surface. This view is beyond stunning.

However, you must visit the region in a group since it is very secluded. Also, you need to take permits from the Indian Armed Forces based in Leh for visiting these lakes. When getting your ILP or PAP at Leh, you can confirm with the local authorities regarding the permit for these twin lakes in Leh.

4.       Mirpal Tso

Mirpal Tso is also one of the lesser-known lakes in Leh. It is an isolated lake situated in Chushul. This freshwater lake has a sandy bed and turquoise blue waters that offer awe-inspiring views. Since not many people visit the place, it is a perfect spot to enjoy some quiet time. The lake is a must-visit especially if you wish to venture out to something adventurous.

5.      Stat Tso and Lang Tso

Although Stat Tso and Lang Tso cannot exactly be termed as lakes in Leh (since they lie in the Zanskar region of Ladakh), they need special mention. The twin lakes are situated in Zanskar Valley close to its highest point-the Pensi La.

Set in the shadows of snow-capped mountains, the lakes offer a stunning view to the travellers. These lakes are not very explored so you can spend some quiet time here. The setting of the lakes is such that the pictures turn out to be extraordinary.

Whether you visit these lakes by yourself or with a group, you’ll have the time of your life! The contrasting colours, the cold winds, the comforting sun, and the deafening silence make for a treat. If I could, I’d go back in a jiffy. There’s no doubt about that.

You can also pitch a tent near the lake to experience beautiful sunrises and star-studded skies at night.

6.      Startsapuk Tso

Approximately 5 kilometres on the south-west end of Tso Kar, lies a freshwater lake called Starsapuk Tso. The lake is connected to Tso Kar through an inlet stream and is home to varied flora and fauna.

This is among the lesser-known lakes in Leh that is a treat for bird watchers. A number of bird species have been known to visit the water body. The lake is also the breeding ground for large colonies of Grebes, Strip geese, terns, etc.

Apart from the birds, the lake is also a spotting ground for wild animals including Tibetan Wild Ass, Tibetan gazelles, Tibetan wolves and foxes, wild horses, yaks, marmots, etc.

Yaks are found at high elevations like that of Ladakh. While some roam in the wild, some of them are domesticated. They are then used for transport purposes, for milk, and for wool. If you do not bother them, they won’t cause you any harm.

It can be covered on your way to Tso Moriri and Tso Kar Lake.

7.      Tso Kar

Located at about 50 kilometres from the Tso Moriri Lake, Tso Kar in Rhupshu Valley is one of the relatively well-known Lakes in Leh. Tso Kar is basically a twin lake and is attached to Startsapuk Tso through an inlet stream. The lake has a high concentration of salt which is visible all over the lake shores. It is sometimes called the ‘White Lake’ because of these salt deposits.

The lake is popular among birdwatchers and wildlife lovers. Although the marshlands of the lake are home to a number of species including bar-headed geese, great crested grebe, Brahmin ducks, etc the star attraction is the black-necked cranes or Tibetan Cranes. These beautiful creatures with a wingspan of around 8ft lay eggs near the Tso Kar Lake.

Wildlife lovers should also visit this place for spotting animals like Kiangs (wild asses), Tibetan foxes and wolves, horses and yaks.

If you wish to stay a night, you can either stay at the tented camps on the western side of the lake or stay at one of the homestays at Thugje.

Camping in the mountains is a truly wonderful experience. It is the best way to have your patience and tolerance tested. Furthermore, it’s a truly minimalistic and raw way of exploring the wilderness. So, would you like to camp in the Himalayas?

If you do stay the night, don’t forget to star gaze the vast skies.

8.  Yarab Tso 

One of the other lesser-known lakes in Leh, the Yarab Tso Lake is located near the Panamik village of Nubra valley. You can reach this freshwater lake after a 20-minute uphill trek from the Panamaik Village. Once you reach there you will be awestruck with the view.

Yarab Tso is also referred to as the hidden Lake and is situated some 15 km from Diskit Region of Nubra Valley.

Just like the many lakes in Leh, Yarab Tso has crystal clear waters. It is one of the most sacred lakes in Nubra valley and is highly revered by the locals. Swimming/bathing or washing in the lake is not allowed. You can also see the colourful flags fluttering around the shores of the lake.

These colourful prayer flags are more than just a mere accessory. Each colour symbolizes an element, and the flags are used to promote peace, wisdom and compassion. They are generally seen around lakes because these are windy regions.

If you are visiting Nubra valley in Leh, it is best to cover it on your way there. The whole detour will take approximately an hour, so don’t miss it.

9.  Yaye Tso

What makes Yaye Tso special amongst the known and unknown lakes in Leh is that it is a Volcanic Lake. Located at around 12 kms from Mahe Gompa in Mahe Village, Yaye Tso is a freshwater Lake.

This place is relatively untouched and unknown to most travellers. A few nomads set up camps near the lake during summers. You can find a number of sheep and horse grazing around the lake. Interacting with people is a great experience.

The Most Popular and Highly Visited Lakes in Leh

The two most popular lakes in Leh that are visited by most travellers are Pangong Tso and Tso Moriri. Let us find out more about these two beautiful lakes.

1.  Pangong Tso

Pangong Tso Lake is one of the most famous lakes in Leh. Shot to fame by Bollywood movie 3 idiots, the lake is set against a backdrop of snowcapped mountains, bright blue skies and rugged plains.

Stretching to about 160 kms, one-third of Pangong Tso lies in India and the rest of it is a part of China. The waters of the lake change colour several times a day, and that is the sight you don’t want to miss.

Standing at an elevation of more than 4,300 meters, Pangong Lake is the world’s highest saltwater lake. Here, you don’t need anything ‘to do.’ Simply staring at the unrealistic views and letting it all sink in is enough. It’s a must-visit in Ladakh.

If you visit Pangong, make sure you witness the magic and beauty of the lake by staying overnight. If you wish to stay in homestays, you can go to the Spangmik village nearby. Otherwise, you can stay at the different camps set up near the shore of the lake.

While during the day the lake changes its colours, at night, you can enjoy star gazing near the lake. It is truly a unique experience. As a traveller, this is something that you cannot miss.

2.  Tso Moriri

Tso Moriri or Mountain is one of those lakes in Leh which every traveller has heard of. The lake is situated the Changthang Plateau, and is the largest in the Ladakh region. The lake is situated at a height of over 14000 ft and is therefore inaccessible during winters.

Tso Moriri was declared as a Wetland of International Importance under the Ramsar Convention in 2003 and has a large flora and fauna. This serene and sacred lake attracts a large range of wildlife, migratory birds, marmots, wild asses, Tibetan wolves, etc. Keep it on the priority list if you are a bird lover.

The triangle-shaped lake is splendid with clear blue water and is a must-visit. You can also choose to stay overnight but unlike Pangong, there are no camps close to the shore of the lake. You have to stay at the homestays in Korzok Village.

No matter where in Ladakh you’re travelling, the roads are going to be challenging. Always remember to be prepared for it – both physically and mentally. Carry sufficient water, food, woollens, and medication. If you feel uneasy, ask for help.

Helpful Tips for Visiting Lakes in Leh

Now that I have discussed the lakes in Leh in detail, it is very important that you know certain travel tips that will help you in visiting all of these lakes. Read them carefully and make sure you follow them while visiting some or all of these known and lesser-known lakes in Leh.

So, if you are planning a trip to Leh, make sure you visit most of these lakes, especially the ones that are relatively unheard of. Visiting the lesser-known lakes in Leh will be a different experience in itself. The roads may be rougher than usual in certain spots, but the discomfort is totally worth it. 

Happy Wayfaring 🙂