Ladakh, often called the “Land of High Passes,” is dotted with mesmerizing high-altitude lakes. While most tourists know of Pangong Tso and Tso Moriri, the region hides several unexplored gems that remain far from the hustle of mass tourism. One such hidden treasure is Ryul Tso Lake, also known as Kyun Tso Lake, tucked deep in the Changthang plateau near Hanle in Ladakh.
The lake lies on the newly built Hanle – Chumar (Chumur) road near Salsa La pass. The high altitude Ryul Tso lake at altitude of 16,430 ft (5,010 meters) is next to Chilling Tso lake and both the lakes are known as twin lakes.
Remote, pristine, and breathtakingly beautiful, Ryul Tso (Kyun Tso) is one of the least-visited lakes in Ladakh. Its blue waters, surrounded by barren mountains and wide-open landscapes, provide an unforgettable experience for travelers seeking peace, photography opportunities, and the thrill of exploring Ladakh’s untouched wilderness.
In this guide, let’s explore everything you need to know about Ryul Tso Lake (Kyun Tso)—its location, best time to visit, how to reach, permits, nearby attractions, and essential travel tips.
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Location of Ryul Tso (Kyun Tso) Lake
Ryul Tso Lake, also called Kyun Tso, lies in the southeastern part of Ladakh in the remote Changthang region, close to the Indo–China border along the Hanle-Chumar road. The lake sits at an altitude of around 5,010 meters (16,430 ft) above sea level, making it one of the highest lakes in Ladakh.
It is situated near Hanle, which is famous for its observatory, and not too far from other high-altitude lakes like Chilling Tso, Tso Moriri, and Tso Kar. Ryul Tso is often visited along with Kyedul Tso (another small lake nearby), as the two are considered twin lakes by locals and explorers.
Why Visit Ryul Tso (Kyun Tso) Lake?
Unlike Pangong or Tso Moriri, which are now part of mainstream Ladakh itineraries, Ryul Tso remains truly offbeat. Here’s why it deserves a place on your Ladakh bucket list:
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Raw and Untouched Beauty – With no commercial tourism, Ryul Tso’s untouched blue waters offer the true wilderness experience.
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Solitude and Peace – If you want to escape touristy crowds and spend time in nature, this is the perfect lake.
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Photography Paradise – The shades of blue, the reflection of clouds, and the barren Changthang backdrop create dreamlike frames.
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High-Altitude Adventure – Reaching the lake is challenging but rewarding, making it ideal for thrill-seekers. Now the Chumar road makes it easy to reach the lake.
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Wildlife Spotting – The Changthang plateau is home to kiangs (wild asses), marmots, Tibetan gazelles, Himalayan hares, and migratory birds such as bar-headed geese and black-necked cranes.
How to Reach Ryul Tso Lake (Kyun Tso)
Getting to Ryul Tso is now much easier — however it requires determination, proper planning, and permits.
Route 1: Leh → Mahe → Nyoma → Hanle → Ryul Tso
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Distance: ~260 km | Travel Time: 9–10 hours
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This is the most common route. From Leh, drive towards Mahe Bridge and Nyoma, then head to Hanle. From Hanle, a diversion road to Chumar takes you towards Ryul Tso.
Route 2: Leh → Tso Moriri → Chumar → Ryul Tso
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Distance: ~350 km | Travel Time: 10–12 hours
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If you are visiting Tso Moriri, you can combine your trip to Ryul Tso from there via Chumar.
Road Conditions
The road is a mix of blacktop highways, dirt tracks, and rugged terrain. The Indian Army in September 2025 announced that newly built Hanle-Chumar road is now open for public.
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Permits for Ryul Tso
Since Ryul Tso (Kyun Tso) Lake lies close to the Indo–China border, it falls under a restricted zone. You will need:
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Indian Nationals: Inner Line Permit (ILP), available online or at the DC office in Leh.
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Foreign Nationals: Protected Area Permit (PAP), usually arranged through registered tour operators.
Please note that this sector has recently been connected by a permanent road (Hanle-Chumar-Tso Moriri), and authorities have not issued an guidelines regarding permits. This is also not clear whether foreign nationals will be allowed to visit this area or not. Always carry multiple copies of your permits, as there are several military check posts along the way.
Best Time to Visit Ryul Tso (Kyun Tso)
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May to September: The best season to visit, as roads remain open and the lake is accessible. The weather is pleasant, though nights are cold.
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October to April: The region experiences extreme cold, with temperatures dropping below –20°C. The lake remains frozen and the roads are mostly inaccessible.
For a comfortable experience, plan your trip between June and September, when the lake is at its most beautiful and the skies are clear for photography.
Things to Do at Ryul Tso Lake (Kyun Tso Lake)
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Photography – Capture the blue-green hues of the lake, barren hills, and dramatic skies.
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Camping (for the adventurous) – Experienced trekkers sometimes set up camps near the lake, but it’s important to check with locals or authorities since this is a sensitive area.
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Bird Watching – Migratory birds like bar-headed geese and Brahminy ducks are often seen here.
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Stargazing – The clear night skies in Changthang make it perfect for stargazing and astrophotography.
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Explore Hanle and Nyoma – Extend your trip to nearby settlements to experience Ladakh’s culture and heritage.
Accommodation Near Ryul Tso
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Ryul Tso: There is no accommodation or inhabitation near Ryul Tso lake.
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Hanle: Offers basic hotels, guesthouses and homestays, along with the unique experience of visiting the Hanle Observatory.
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Nyoma: Some guesthouses and homestays are available.
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Leh: For comfortable stays with modern facilities, Leh is the best option, though it is far from Ryul Tso.
Camping near Ryul Tso is possible for experienced travelers, but as the region is sensitive, consult local authorities before pitching tents.
Nearby Attractions
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Hanle Observatory – One of the world’s highest observatories, a must-visit for astronomy enthusiasts.
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Chilling Tso Lake – Another hidden gem located nearby.
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Tso Moriri Lake – A popular high-altitude lake, often combined with Ryul Tso visits.
- Umling La – Umling La pass is the world’s highest motorable pass about 90km from Hanle, best for adventure lovers.
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Tso Kar Lake – Known as the “White Lake,” famous among birdwatchers.
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Nyoma Monastery – A small but charming monastery that offers insight into local Buddhist traditions.
Travel Tips for Visiting Ryul Tso
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Acclimatization: Spend 2–3 days in Leh before heading to Changthang to avoid altitude sickness.
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Health Precautions: Carry medicines for AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness) like Diamox, and drink plenty of water.
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Vehicle: Only take a sturdy vehicle with high ground clearance; avoid small cars.
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Fuel: Carry extra fuel, as the last petrol pump is in Leh or Karu.
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Food & Water: Carry your own supplies, as there are no shops near the lake.
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Mobile Network: Only BSNL and Jio postpaid works in some parts of Changthang; at Ryul Tso, there is no signal at all.
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Respect Local Culture: The area is home to Changpa nomads—respect their lifestyle and traditions.
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Eco-friendly Travel: Do not litter; carry your waste back. The region is ecologically fragile.
Ryul Tso Lake (Kyun Tso Lake) in Ladakh is not just another high-altitude lake—it is an experience of raw, untouched nature. Its pristine waters, surreal landscapes, and complete solitude make it one of the best-kept secrets of Ladakh.
While it may not be easy to reach, the journey to Ryul Tso is what makes it worthwhile. Every turn on the rugged road offers jaw-dropping views of the Himalayas and the vast Changthang plateau. And when you finally reach the lake, the sight of its shimmering blue waters will make you forget all the challenges of the journey.
If you are planning a Ladakh trip beyond the usual tourist trails, Ryul Tso is a must-visit. It is the perfect destination for adventure seekers, photographers, wildlife lovers, and peace seekers who want to experience Ladakh in its most authentic form.
So next time you travel to Ladakh, don’t just stop at Pangong Tso or Tso Moriri. Go further, explore deeper, and let the untouched beauty of Ryul Tso Lake mesmerize your soul.
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