Ever heard of Ryul Tso? Probably not, and that’s exactly what makes it special! Tucked away in the remote corners of Ladakh, this hidden lake is the kind of place that makes you stop, stare, and wonder how something so stunning can be so untouched. Leh Ladakh tour packages should include this gem for the perfect blend of adventure and serenity.
About 217 km southeast of Leh, this high-altitude gem is the perfect escape if you’re craving pure, untouched beauty. Sitting at a jaw-dropping 5,029 meters (16,500 feet), it’s one of the highest lakes in Ladakh, offering insane panoramic views of the rugged mountains and vast valleys.
Once you see it, you’ll wonder why more people aren’t talking about this hidden wonder! So let’s explore the unexplored and experience the thrill of Ladakh bike trips to conquer the entire region!
Best Time to Visit Ryul Tso Lake
The best time to visit Ryul Tso Lake in Ladakh is from June to September when roads are accessible, and the weather is at its best. During these months, the lake’s surroundings come alive with vibrant hues, and the clear skies offer breathtaking views of the Himalayas.
- Summer (June - September): Ideal for travelers, as the temperatures are moderate, ranging from 5°C to 20°C. The roads are open, making it the perfect season for Ladakh bike trips and high-altitude adventures.
- Winter (October - May): Not recommended due to extreme cold, with temperatures dropping to -20°C or lower. Heavy snowfall can make access nearly impossible.
How to Reach Ryul Tso from Leh
- Location of Ryul Tso: 217 km southeast of Leh - 194404
- Distance: ~220–250 km (depending on the route)
- Travel Time: 7–9 hours (due to rough roads and high-altitude passes)
Getting to Ryul Lake is an adventure in itself! Since it's one of Ladakh’s hidden gems, the journey requires careful planning and a love for offbeat travel. Here’s how to reach Ryul Tso from Leh:
Option 1: Via Tso Kar & Pologongka La (Most Common Route)
1. Leh → Upshi (40 km, 1 hr)
- Take the Manali-Leh Highway (NH3) southeast from Leh.
- Pass through Shey, Thiksey, and Karu before reaching Upshi.
2. Upshi → Debring / Tso Kar (90 km, 2.5–3 hrs)
- Continue on NH3 towards Tanglang La (5,328m) but turn left at Debring towards Tso Kar.
- Tso Kar is a saltwater lake and a great stop for wildlife spotting (Kiang, migratory birds).
3. Tso Kar → Pologongka La → Ryul Tso (60–70 km, 2–3 hrs)
- From Tso Kar, take the rough road towards Pologongka La (4,900m).
- After crossing the pass, descend towards Ryul Tso, which lies near Startsapuk Tso.
Option 2: Via Chumathang & Puga Valley (Alternative Route)
1. Leh → Karu → Chumathang (120 km, 3–4 hrs)
2. Chumathang → Puga Valley → Ryul Tso (80–90 km, 3–4 hrs)
- From Chumathang, head towards Puga Valley (geothermal area).
- A rough track leads to Ryul Tso from here.
Travel Tips:
- Vehicle: A 4x4 SUV or bike is mandatory (roads are extremely rough).
- Fuel & Supplies: Fill up in Leh; no petrol pumps after Upshi. Carry extra fuel, food, and water.
- Permits: No special permit needed for Ryul Tso, but check for Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary rules if visiting nearby areas.
- Altitude Sickness: Ryul Tso lake altitude is 4,500m—acclimatize in Leh for 2 days before traveling.
- Mobile Network: No connectivity beyond Upshi (BSNL may work occasionally).
Things to Do at Ryul Tso Lake
Because of its remote location, not very tourist things are possible here but the peace you crave for is found in no popular tourist place, some of the things to do at Ryul Tso Lake are:
1. Capture Stunning Views
Ryul Tso’s turquoise-blue waters set against Ladakh’s stark mountains create a picture-perfect setting. Sunrises and sunsets here are magical, with changing hues reflecting on the lake. Wildlife lovers can also spot migratory birds, kiang (Tibetan wild ass), and, if lucky, even a Himalayan fox.
2. Wildlife & Birdwatching
The lake attracts rare migratory birds like bar-headed geese, black-necked cranes, and brahminy ducks, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. You may also spot kiang grazing by the lake and other elusive creatures like blue sheep and marmots in the surrounding terrain.
3. Camping & Stargazing
Camping near Ryul Tso is a surreal experience, with absolute solitude and breathtaking night skies. The lack of pollution makes it an ideal place to witness the Milky Way in all its glory. However, since there are no facilities, you must bring your own gear and supplies.
4. Off-Roading & Biking
The rugged, offbeat trails leading to Ryul Tso are perfect for adventure seekers. Whether you're tackling the challenging terrain on a 4x4 or riding a bike, the journey is as thrilling as the destination. Make sure to fuel up in Leh, as there are no petrol stations nearby.
5. Meditation & Solitude
Ryul Lake is an oasis of peace, far from the usual tourist trails. Whether you want to meditate, journal, or just sit and absorb the silence, this lake offers a perfect escape from the chaos of everyday life.
Top Attractions Near Ryul Tso
1. Tso Kar (Famous salt lake with wildlife): Another gem of Ladakh, slightly more popular than Ryul Tso, Tso Kar is known as the "White Lake" for its salt-crusted shores and diverse wildlife.
2. Startsapuk Tso (Another stunning lake near Ryul Tso): A smaller, quieter twin of Ryul Tso with emerald-blue waters, perfect for solitude and reflection. Rarely visited by tourists, it’s an excellent spot for birdwatching, with bar-headed geese and brahminy ducks often seen here.
3. Puga Valley (Geothermal springs): Home to natural hot springs with sulfur-rich waters, believed to have healing properties. The bubbling mud pools and steam vents give the valley an otherworldly feel.
4. Korzok & Tso Moriri (If extending the trip): One of Ladakh’s most breathtaking lakes at 4,522m, surrounded by snow-capped peaks. Visit Korzok Monastery, a 400-year-old Buddhist gompa overlooking the lake, and experience the nomadic Changpa culture with their pashmina goat farms.
Accommodation Options Near Ryul Tso
Since Ryul Lake is a remote, high-altitude lake in Ladakh’s Changthang region, there are no formal accommodations. Most travelers either camp near the lake or stay in basic guesthouses in nearby villages.
If you're up for an adventure, carrying your own camping gear is the best option. For a bit more comfort, you can find homestays and nomadic camps near Tso Kar, around 60 km away, where you can experience local hospitality with minimal facilities.
Conclusion
Ryul Tso, perched at an altitude of 5,029 meters (16,500 feet), is one of Ladakh’s best-kept secrets, located approximately 217 km southeast of Leh. This remote lake offers breathtaking views, untouched serenity, and a raw, offbeat experience that few travelers get to witness. Whether you’re drawn to its crystal-clear waters, the thrill of an adventurous journey, or the sheer solitude of this high-altitude wonder, Ryul Tso promises an unforgettable escape into nature. Why Ryul Tso is famous isn’t just about its beauty—it’s the remoteness, the wildlife, and the rare chance to explore Ladakh beyond the usual tourist trails. If you’re someone who craves the unexplored, this hidden gem deserves a spot on your Ladakh itinerary!
