The Rumtse–Tso Moriri Trek and the Parang La Trek are two of the most remote and culturally significant high-altitude treks in the Great Indian Himalayas; both end at the sacred lake of Tso Moriri, however, approaching it from entirely different landscapes. Together, they represent the most outstanding long-distance expeditions in Ladakh and Spiti, which offer unmatched Himalayan wilderness, thrilling desert-mountain terrain, and unforgettable views of Changpa nomads and wildlife of the Trans-Himalayas.
Rumtse to Tso Moriri Trek
The Rumtse Tso Moriri trek is a high-altitude trans-Himalayan trek in the region of Ladakh. This trek comes out as one of the classic high-altitude treks without any crowds, and the trek demands prior high-altitude experiences as well as acclimatisation.
Highlights
- The trail crosses through seven high mountain passes, which are above 5,000 metres.
- Tek offers a panoramic view of Kang Yatse, the Mantok Range, Charmser Kangri, the Rupshu Plateau, and many more.
- Campsites beside lakes and grasslands like Grama, Kyamar and Tisaling.
- Rare wildlife views of wild ass, blue sheep and migratory birds.
Distance & duration
The trek covers a total distance of 105-110 km from Rumtse to Korzok, where the trek ends. Typically, the trek lasts for 8 to 10 days; however, overall, the trip from Leh to Leh takes about 12 to 14 days.
Best time
Mid-June to mid-September comes out as the best season to do the Rumtse-Tso Mosriri trek. In other seasons, it’s quite difficult because of the extremely cold weather and deep snow. From July to August, days are warm with clear skies and vibrant colours; however, in September, days are cold, but the weather is stable, and skies are at their clearest.
Difficulty level
The Rumtse-Tso Moriri trek is one of the most challenging treks in the Great Himalayas. The trek demands strong fitness and the ability to walk 6-8 hours daily at high altitude.
This trek is not suitable for beginners and first-timers.
Prang La Trek
The Prang La trek comes out as a legendary high-altitude crossover trek which connects Spiti Valley with Tso Moriri Lake in the region of Spiti. Trek offers one of the best desert landscapes and massive glaciers.
Highlights
- The trek covers a long glacier walk of about 5-7 km on the Parang La Glacier.
- Campsites beside alpine meadows, serpentine rivers and high passes.
- Stunning sights of the Mentok Range, Chamser Knagri, Parilungbi Peaks and other peaks.
- The trek passes through Parang La Pass, one of the highest passes, at 5,600 metres.
Distance & duration
The Parang La trek covers a total distance of about 90-110 km, depending on the campsite and route. The trek starts from Kibber Village of Spiti and ends at Tso Moriri Korzok Village. The trek lasts for 8 to 10 days, but the overall trip duration is about 12 to 14 days.
Best time
From the middle of July to early September comes out as the most suitable season for the Parang La trek. August comes out as the best month for stable weather and the safest glacier conditions.
Difficulty level
The Parang La trek is marked as a very difficult trek or expedition level. Trek demands high fitness as well as prior 5,000-metre experience. This trek is suitable only for experienced trekkers, not for beginners and first-timers.
Conclusion
The Rumtse-Tso Moriri and Prang La treks both come out as the most thrilling and challenging high-altitude treks in India. Both treks demand preparation, acclimatisation, logistical planning and experienced guides. These two treks are ideal for serious trekkers who want an intense, remote trans-Himalayan adventure.
