The remote high plateau of Changthang (meaning “northland”) stretches from western Tibet into eastern Ladakh. This remarkable region, often referred to as the land of the nomads, offers an experience that is both culturally rich and visually stunning. Visitors encounter the traditional lifestyle of Changpa nomads and may share a cup of butter tea inside their distinctive black yak-hair tents along the shores of the breathtakingly oval-shaped Tsomoriri Lake.
The lake is renowned for its ever-changing shades of turquoise and deep blue, depending on the light and time of day, and is framed by an expansive and dramatic high-altitude landscape. Changthang is also an important wildlife sanctuary, home to rare species such as the snow leopard, Tibetan wild ass (Kiang), Himalayan wolves, and a wide variety of migratory birds.
| Tour Information | |
| Season | June to October |
| Total Duration | 13 Nights / 14 Days |
| Trekking Days | 05 Days |
| Total Trekking Hours | Approx. 30 Hours |
| Special Features | High-altitude nomadic landscapes and pristine lakes |
| Trek Grade | Strenuous |
| Max Altitude | 5,450 m |
Day 01: Arrive Delhi
Upon arrival in Delhi, you are welcomed with a traditional ‘Swagat’. After assistance at the airport, transfer to your hotel for check-in. After some rest, proceed for a guided sightseeing tour of Delhi, beginning with Old Delhi. Visit the historic Red Fort, Jama Masjid, and Raj Ghat. The afternoon includes visits to India Gate and the President’s House. Return to the hotel for overnight stay.
Day 02: Delhi – Leh
Early morning transfer to the airport for the journey to Leh. On arrival, transfer to the hotel and check in. The rest of the day is reserved for acclimatization. In the afternoon, enjoy a gentle walk around Leh town (3,500 m), visiting Leh Market, Leh Palace, Shanti Stupa, and Leh Gompa. This walk aids acclimatization. Overnight stay at the hotel.
Day 03: Leh – Rumtse – Kyamar (4,050 m)
Drive from Leh to Rumtse, enjoying scenic views of the Indus Valley and monasteries along the route. From Rumtse, begin a short and easy trek across relatively flat terrain to help with acclimatization. Camp overnight at Kyamar, a lush campsite near a natural spring.
Day 04: Kyamar – Tisaling (4,200 m)
After breakfast, begin the ascent towards the first mountain pass, Kumur La (4,800 m), offering panoramic views of the colorful Changthang range. Descend gradually before climbing Mandalchan La (4,850 m). Along the way, encounters with nomads and their herds of sheep, goats, and yaks are common. Descend to the pasturelands of Tisaling for overnight camping.
Day 05: Tisaling – Ponganabu (4,250 m)
Cross the Shibuk La (4,900 m), the third pass of the trek. From the top, enjoy sweeping views of the surrounding mountains and the distant Tsokar Lake. Descend into the valley, often accompanied by the whistles of marmots. Trek down to the Tsokar basin and camp overnight at the windy campsite of Ponganabu.
Day 06: Ponganabu – Nuruchan (4,300 m)
Today’s trek follows a jeep trail towards Tsokar Lake. The salty shores of the lake provide an excellent opportunity to spot rare migratory birds. Continue along the trail, skirting barren landscapes before reaching the grassy campsite of Nuruchan, complete with nearby streams.
Day 07: Nuruchan – Gyamar Barma (5,100 m)
A challenging day begins with crossing a cold stream and ascending Horlam Kongka La (4,900 m), offering spectacular views of Tsokar Lake. Continue through nomadic settlements inhabited by people of Western Tibetan origin. After sharing butter tea with the nomads, ascend the demanding Kyamayuru La (5,410 m). Descend gradually to the high-altitude campsite at Gyamar Barma, where temperatures can drop significantly at night.
Day 08: Gyamar Barma – Gyamar (5,200 m)
After breakfast, ascend gradually to Kartse La (5,300 m). The trail then descends into the lush green Gyamar Valley, where yaks graze freely. Overnight stay at the campsite.
Day 09: Gyamar – Korzok (4,500 m)
Ascend steadily to the final and highest pass, Yalung Nyaulung La (5,450 m). Along the route, observe rare Himalayan flora and medicinal herbs. From the pass, enjoy breathtaking views of Tsomoriri Lake, surrounded by snow-capped peaks. Descend steeply to Korzok Phu and continue to the village of Korzok, situated on the shores of Tsomoriri.
Day 10: Korzok – Leh
Drive back to Leh following the dramatic gorges of the Indus River, carrying with you unforgettable memories of the Changthang plateau and Tsomoriri Lake.
Day 11: Leh Sightseeing
Proceed for a full-day Indus Valley monastery tour. Visit Shey Monastery, the ancient capital of Ladakh, followed by Thiksey Monastery, known for its towering statue of Maitreya Buddha. Continue to Hemis Monastery, one of the largest and wealthiest monasteries in Ladakh, famous for its annual masked dance festival. Later, visit Stok Palace and its museum, showcasing royal artifacts, thangkas, jewelry, and ancient arms. Overnight stay in Leh.
Day 12: Leh – Delhi
Transfer to the airport for the return journey to Delhi. Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel. Later, proceed for sightseeing, visiting Humayun’s Tomb, Lotus Temple, and Qutub Minar. Overnight stay at the hotel.
Day 13: Delhi – Agra – Delhi (Optional)
Early morning drive to Agra, with a visit to Sikandra, the tomb of Emperor Akbar, en route. In Agra, visit the iconic Taj Mahal, built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of Mumtaz Mahal, followed by the massive Agra Fort. Return to Delhi by evening. Farewell dinner and transfer to the airport.
Day 14: Depart Delhi
Our tour concludes: We thank you for your patronage and look forward to welcoming you again on another memorable Himalayan adventure.
