Tso Moriri

Tso Moriri is a high-altitude lake in the Rupshu Valley, less than 250 km southeast of Leh, ringed by tall mountains. Revered by Ladakhis, it is protected as the Tso Moriri Wetland Conservation Reserve and is the highest Ramsar site in the world. Tents and buildings may not be put up near the shore, and because the lake is close to the Line of Actual Control, visitors need an Inner Line Permit.

In summer migratory birds arrive, including bar-headed geese, Brahminy ducks and the black-necked crane, while kiang, marmots, ibex and the occasional Tibetan wolf live on the surrounding land. Nomadic herders have long brought their animals here in summer, using the lake for water, and Silk Road caravans once stopped to rest. Clear, dark skies make it good for stargazing.