Tso Kar is a fluctuating salt lake in Rapshu of Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir, India. This lake is famous for its depth and size. In 3 high altitude alpine lakes, this is the smallest lake. Other high altitude lakes are Tsomoriri and Pangong Tso. Tsomoriri is India’s highest brackish water lake. Tso Kar is one of the best places for natural lovers. It is well known for its scenic beauty.
What to see at Tso Kar: This is one of the best places for bird watchers. Main attraction of this place is black necked cranes. These birds come to this lake to lay eggs. These cranes are known for their fidelity. Wingspan of this bird is 8feet. When it is flying it looks so beautiful with the backdrop of green plains and snow covered mountains. Other common birds of this place are great crested grebe, bar headed geese, Brahmin ducks.
At this place plenty of wild animals can be seen. Visitors of this place say that, this is the best place to see Kiangs. These animals live in large groups. Other animals of this place are steppe marmots, foxes, Tibetan Wolves, Tibetan Gazelles.
What to see near Tso Kar:
Hot water Springs: Around this lake visitors can found hot water springs. People believe that this water is having medicinal properties. This water will be helpful to cure skin diseases.
Changla Pass: In the world, this is the third highest motorable road. It is situated on the way to Leh from Pangong Tso.
Tsomoriri: This Lake is known for its scenic beauty. It is high altitude lake which is situated at north side of the Ladakh. In the Ladakh region, Tsomoriri and Pangong Tso are famous high altitude lakes in Ladakh. In the eastern side of this lake Tibet is located and on the western side of the lake visitors can see Zanskar.
Namshang la Gompa: It is located 38kms away from this lake. It connects Indus Valley and Tsomoriri. It is one of the Buddhist monasteries which are located in Ladakh region.
Lungalacha La: This is a mountain pass along the Leh Manali highway. It can be traversed cross country by moving along the nala on both sides. It is located 42kms away from Tso Kar.
Getting to Tso Kar: Only way to reach this place is through road. Before visiting this place one has to visit Leh. From Leh, JKSRTC is running buses to this place. Plenty of taxis are available to reach this place from Leh. Along with taxis, Jeeps, Cars and Motorcycles are also available to reach this place form Leh. Nearest railway station is located at Jammu Tawi. From this station, taxis and cars are available to reach Tso Kar. Nearest airport is located at Leh. Leh is well connected with Srinagar, Jammu and Delhi.
Getting around Tso kar: Tso Kar have to be explored on foot. Taxis are available to visit the surrounding places of Tso Kar.
Best time to visit Tso Kar: Best time to visit this place is between June to September. Tourist season comes to an end by the end of September.
Where to stay in Tso kar: Tents are available to stay at Tso kar. Though they were not large, they will provide staying options to the visitors of this place. These tents are located 3kms away from the lake. Some visitors come to this place and stays in Leh.
Where to eat in Tso Kar: Tents are provided along with basic food.