Where sky mirrors the lake, nomads carry centuries of wisdom, and the earth steams with geothermal fire.
Welcome to the Changthang Plateau—Ladakh’s vast, wild, and windswept highland that stretches into the Tibetan plateau. This region is home to nomadic pastoralists, sacred hot springs, geothermal valleys, endangered wildlife, and Ladakh’s most iconic alpine lakes.
The Changthang & High-Altitude Lakes Circuit offers an unforgettable journey across pristine landscapes, borderland villages, and ecological marvels, while introducing you to SHG-led enterprises, local crafts, and traditional medicine practices like Sowa-Rigpa.
Leh → Hemis (detour) → Chumathang → Tso Moriri (Korzok) → Puga → Yaya Tso → Tso Kar → Hanle (optional) → Demchok (permit-based)
Travel Permits: Required for Hanle and Demchok (Inner Line Permit + Army clearance)
Start your journey with a short detour to Hemis, Ladakh’s largest and most famous monastery.
Ideal place to stock up on high-altitude wellness teas before entering Changthang.
As you enter Changthang, stop at Chumathang, known for its natural hot springs and traditional Amchi (Sowa-Rigpa) healers.
Keywords: Chumathang hot springs, Sowa-Rigpa Ladakh, herbal SHG Ladakh
Perched at 15,075 ft, Tso Moriri is Ladakh’s largest high-altitude lake and a designated Ramsar Wetland Site.
Korzok is the base for exploring the lake and home to the Changpa nomadic community.
June–Sept is best for witnessing nomadic migration and buying fresh wool products.
Note: Overnight near the lake in eco-friendly camps or SHG-run guesthouses—supporting local livelihoods.
Often described as the Yellowstone of India, Puga is an untamed valley filled with sulphur deposits, hot springs, steaming mud pools, and geothermal potential.
Keywords: Puga geothermal Ladakh, eco-tourism Puga, hot spring valley Ladakh
Less visited than Tso Moriri or Tso Kar, Yaya Tso is a peaceful, heart-shaped lake surrounded by black rock formations.
Best accessed via Mahe–Puga route, with packed meals from Korzok or Chumathang SHGs.
A stark, saline lake surrounded by white salt flats, Tso Kar is a paradise for birdwatchers and conservationists.
Ideal during July–September for photography, birdwatching, and learning about salt-harvesting practices.
If time and permits allow, Hanle is one of the most magical places in Ladakh.
Responsible Tip: Avoid light pollution, use eco-sanitation facilities, and follow wildlife conservation rules.
Located at the far edge of Changthang, Demchok lies right near the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China.
Only visit with certified operators and respect military protocols.
Day 1: Leh – Hemis – Chumathang (hot springs + overnight)
Day 2: Chumathang – Korzok (Tso Moriri)
Day 3: Explore Tso Moriri, nomadic interactions, SHG visits
Day 4: Korzok – Puga – Yaya Tso – Tso Kar
Day 5: Tso Kar – Hanle (if permitted)
Day 6: Hanle – Demchok (if allowed) or Return to Leh
Day 7: Buffer day for weather, acclimatization, or extra interaction
We offer: Trail Maps | Verified SHG Homestays | Local Product Outlets | Permit Support | Nature Guide Bookings
Contact us to explore the Changthang circuit responsibly—with the people who call it home.
From pottery workshops to Ladakhi cooking sessions, uncover the authentic experiences that Leh offers. Dive into the local culture with hands-on activities that will leave lasting memories.
Leh is home to some of the most stunning and serene monasteries in the world. Visit these sacred sites, learn about their rich history, and experience the spiritual calm of Ladakh.
