Ladakh is more than just Pangong Lake and Nubra Valley—it’s a land where adventure whispers through every mountain pass and hidden valley. For those who crave the road less travelled, here’s a glimpse into Ladakh’s most offbeat gems: Siachen Base Camp, Ryul Tso, and Kyun Tso. Today I am going to introduce two offbeat lakes in this blog, which are off beat and worth to visit, ! out of 10 visits these lakes who explore leh Ladakh.
1. Siachen Base Camp – The Highest Battlefield in the World
Altitude: ~12,000 ft (Base Camp), with peaks towering above 20,000 ft
Best Time to Visit: June to September (requires special permits)
Once restricted to military personnel, the legendary Siachen Base Camp has now opened its gates to civilians on a guided tour basis. Visiting this icy frontier is not just about altitude—it’s about emotion, sacrifice, and patriotism. Standing at the edge of the Siachen Glacier, with the tricolor fluttering high, you feel the raw pulse of India’s northernmost edge.
What to Expect:
- A salute to Indian Army bravery
- Glimpses of snow-covered peaks year-round
- Adventure en route via Warshi and Sasoma
- Permit and security clearance mandatory
Pro Tip: Stay a day at Nubra for acclimatization before heading to Siachen.
2. Ryul Tso – The Forgotten Gem of Eastern Ladakh
Altitude: ~17,000 ft
Best Time to Visit: May to October
Tucked close to the Indo-China border, Ryul Tso is one of Ladakh’s most untouched lakes, shimmering like a blue jewel in the vast Changthang Plateau. Unlike its popular cousin Tso Moriri, Ryul Tso remains free from tourist crowds, making it perfect for peace seekers and photographers.
If you like to explore some off beat places of Ladakh and you are looking for a silient and soul refreshing place, I may recommend you the two lakes, Ryul tso and Chilling Tso also know as Kyun tso 1 and 2 Respectiviley.
Highlights:
- A tranquil atmosphere with zero commercialization
- Perfect for off-grid camping
- Often paired with a visit to Nyoma and Koyul villages
- Views of Tibetan plateau landscapes and nomadic life
Note: A protected area permit (PAP) is required. A reliable local guide is a must. Plus a car having good ground clearance is mandatory.
3. Kyun Tso – Twin Lakes in the Clouds
Altitude: ~17,600 ft
Best Time to Visit: June to September
Known as Kyun Tso 1 and Kyun Tso 2, these twin high-altitude lakes are hidden in the far reaches of Hanle Valley. The reflection of the sky on their still waters is surreal, and the silence here is broken only by the flutter of the wind or a rare Kiang galloping by.
Why Visit:
- A true offbeat destination with untouched beauty
- A photographer’s dream: reflections, clouds, stars
- A spiritual silence that soothes the soul
- Close proximity to Hanle (home to India’s highest observatory)
Travel Tip: Only 4×4 vehicles with experienced drivers should attempt this route. Carry extra fuel and supplies.
Final Thoughts
Ladakh is a canvas of raw, wild beauty—and these offbeat spots offer travelers a chance to see beyond the brochure. Whether it’s saluting soldiers at Siachen, meditating beside Ryul Tso, or stargazing by Kyun Tso, the experiences are deep, soulful, and unforgettable.
Here I may mention few things that needs to be taken care of:-
Have excess fuel ( it is around 60 kms one way as per ypur car consumption take 5-6 litres extra as the roads patches are rough, construction is going on, you can experience a lot of dust, pot holes, narrow stretches, bumps on the road surface.
As a smaller number of cabs ply on this road, so whenever you plan for such routes, be in a group of 2-3 cars, in case any fault in car, you can have second option to toe, or to seek help.
All the basic equipment’s/ spare parts should be with, as in these barren lands you can’t find any assistance booth/ Service station/fuel pump.
And one more thing as the area is located closed to Indo China border, hence you need permission from Indian army to enter the area, and before proceeding for these lakes from Hanle, make sure routes are open.
So, next time you’re planning your Ladakh itinerary, dare to go offbeat. Let Epoch Para trips craft your journey to the hidden jewels of the Himalayas.
