Rumtse to Korzok
Duration
12 Days
Best Time
June - September
Elevation
4,950m / 16,240ft
Location
Himachal Pradesh
Difficulty
Fitness Level
The Rumtse to Korzok trek is a high-altitude traverse across the Changthang plateau, crossing multiple passes while moving from the Indus Valley into the remote basin of Tso Moriri. It is a continuous journey through open terrain, linking remote valleys, salt flats, and nomadic grazing lands.
This trek stands out for its vast landscapes and altitude consistency. Unlike valley treks, the terrain here is wide and exposed—long walking days across high passes, dry riverbeds, and rolling plateaus. The region is sparsely inhabited, with occasional sightings of Changpa nomads and their camps adding cultural context to the journey. The route involves crossing a series of passes, each gradually building altitude and offering expansive views of the Trans-Himalayan landscape. Camps are set in remote locations, often near seasonal water sources, with minimal infrastructure throughout the route.
What defines this trek is its remoteness and scale. Movement is steady but demanding, with the environment playing a constant role—wind, altitude, and exposure shaping the experience more than technical difficulty. It’s a trek that requires rhythm and consistency rather than speed. We approach this journey with a focus on acclimatisation, strong logistics, and efficient pacing, ensuring the team is well supported while moving through a region where external support is limited.
What to expect from this Expedition
The Rumtse to Korzok trek is a high-altitude expedition-style trek, with most of the journey taking place above 4500m. The altitude is the primary challenge, with multiple pass crossings and sustained exposure making acclimatisation and pacing critical. The terrain is not technically difficult, but it is physically demanding due to long distances and continuous elevation. Days can feel extended, with limited variation in terrain—open landscapes, dry sections, and high passes requiring steady movement. Weather in this region is relatively stable compared to other Himalayan zones, but wind and temperature variations can be significant. Nights are cold, and camps are often in exposed locations. Wildlife sightings such as kiang (wild ass), marmots, and occasional birdlife are common, along with encounters with Changpa nomadic settlements, offering insight into life in this high-altitude desert. Each day is planned to allow flexibility in movement and rest, rather than a rigid structure, adapting to team pace and conditions.
Note on Itinerary: While we aim to follow the planned schedule, all itineraries are subject to change based on weather, route conditions, and acclimatisation needs. Decisions are made on the ground to ensure a safe and well-paced journey.
Day 1 – Arrive Leh
Elevation: 11,500 ft / 3,500 m
Arrive in Leh. Transfer to your hotel and rest. Complete rest is essential to begin acclimatisation at altitude.
Day 2 – Acclimatisation in Leh
Elevation: 11,500–12,500 ft / 3,500–3,800 m
Distance: 3–5 km
Short acclimatisation walk around Leh. Keep movement light. The day is focused on adapting to altitude and preparing for the trek.
Day 3 – Khardung La Excursion
Elevation: 17,582 ft / 5,359 m
Drive to Khardung La and return to Leh. This helps with acclimatisation before entering higher trekking zones.
Day 4 – Drive to Rumtse, Trek to Kyamar
Elevation: 13,615 ft / 4,150 m → 14,895 ft / 4,540 m
Distance: 8–10 km
Drive to Rumtse and begin the trek. The trail follows a gradual ascent through wide valleys to reach Kyamar.
Day 5 – Kyamar to Tisaling (via Kyamar La & Mandalchan La)
Elevation: 14,895 ft / 4,540 m → 17,060 ft / 5,200 m → 16,437 ft / 5,010 m
Distance: 12–14 km
Climb steadily over Kyamar La and Mandalchan La. The route involves long ascents and exposed terrain before descending to Tisaling.
Day 6 – Tisaling to Riyul (via Shibuk La & Pongunagu)
Elevation: 16,437 ft / 5,010 m → 17,307 ft / 5,275 m → 15,026 ft / 4,580 m → 14,928 ft / 4,550 m
Distance: 14–16 km
Cross Shibuk La and descend towards Pongunagu before continuing to Riyul. The terrain is wide, open, and exposed to wind.
Day 7 – Riyul to Nuruchan
Elevation: 14,928 ft / 4,550 m → 15,255 ft / 4,650 m
Distance: 10–12 km
A relatively gradual day following open valley terrain. The route continues through Changthang plateau landscapes with minimal elevation gain.
Day 8 – Nuruchan to Gyamar Barma (via Kyamayuri La)
Elevation: 15,255 ft / 4,650 m → 17,814 ft / 5,430 m → 17,043 ft / 5,195 m
Distance: 12–14 km
One of the harder days, crossing Kyamayuri La. Long ascent followed by descent into Gyamar Barma. High altitude and exposure define the day.
Day 9 – Gyamar Barma to Gyamar (via Kartse La)
Elevation: 17,043 ft / 5,195 m → 17,650 ft / 5,380 m → 16,929 ft / 5,160 m
Distance: 10–12 km
Cross Kartse La with steady ascent and descent. The terrain remains dry and open with extended walking sections.
Day 10 – Gyamar to Korzok (via Yalung Nyau La)
Elevation: 16,929 ft / 5,160 m → 17,814 ft / 5,430 m → 15,075 ft / 4,595 m
Distance: 14–16 km
Final pass crossing over Yalung Nyau La before descending to Korzok on the banks of Tso Moriri.
Day 11 – Korzok Exploration, Drive to Leh
Elevation: 15,075 ft / 4,595 m
Visit Korzok Monastery and explore Tso Moriri lake. Drive back to Leh.
Day 12 – Departure
Depart from Leh after completing the expedition.
Price
Rumtse to Korzok
₹124100 - 12 Days / Ex.Leh
- Train / Flight / Bus reservations for your expedition should be made as soon as possible.
- Please forward a copy of your travel itinerary before final payment so we can review departure and arrival dates.
- We make hotel arrangements to meet individual itineraries.
- Visas & Passports To enter India – You must have a passport that is up to date and valid for at least six months after the end of your intended trip in order to enter India.
- Citizens of SARC nations do not need visas, but they must have a valid form of identification with them at all times (see country-specific rules before travelling).
- It is the responsibility of participant to ascertain and meet entrance criteria for their passports or nationalities.
- We are delighted to assist with this procedure. We advise you to review the entry requirements on the relevant country’s official website.
Flight to / from Leh : The nearest airport is Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport, which is well connected with major cities like Delhi. This trip requires that you arrive in Leh on Day 1 of your expedition. Early morning arrival is preferred for better acclimatisation. You may plan your onward travel any time after 12:00 Hrs on the last day of your itinerary.
Road to / from Leh : Leh is connected by high-altitude roads to Manali and Srinagar. Both routes involve long journeys across multiple mountain passes and typically take 1–2 days depending on conditions. Travel on these routes is highly dependent on weather and road status, so planning buffer time is recommended.
Early Arrival/Late Departure: For those arriving early or departing after the scheduled itinerary, we can make hotel and transport arrangements at an additional cost. Please contact our office in advance if you would like us to make additional reservations.
Missed Flights/ Train / Buses: If you miss your flight / bus or if your travel is significantly delayed, please contact us through WhatsApp on +91 94076 89444 and follow the prompt for 24-hour contact. Participants are responsible for determining and meeting travel and identification requirements based on their nationality.
- Accommodations as per the Itinerary
- International Backpacking guide fees
- Guide with First aid Certification
- Porters, Camp staff
- Breakfast and dinner in the during stay at town / city
- All food and lodging during the trek and climb. No expense is spared in providing high-quality food. (If you have particular dietary requirements, please give us specific details and we will accommodate your needs.
- All transportation as per the Itinerary
- All group equipment needed to reach Base Camp and climb the mountain: cooking gear, fuel, stoves, ropes, all forms of rock and ice protection, radio communications, medical supplies etc.
- Permit & Park / Forest fee
- Waste disposal bags
- Wire transfer fee (if applicable)
- IFMGA/UIAGM-certified mountain guide fees (You need to inform us prior to book)
- India entry visa and airport fees (If Required)
- Any extra nights’ lodging
- Single room supplement
- Meals not listed above
- All personal snack/lunch food
- Alcoholic beverages and bottled drinks (bottled water)
- International & Domestic Airfare / Trainfare
- Excess baggage charges and airport taxes
- Any transportation not mentioned
- Personal gear, clothing and sleeping equipment
- Forest Charges for carrying still/video cameras etc.
- Personal communication (phone, fax, email)
- All expenses incurred in the event of early departure (evacuation fees, transport, extra hotel nights, etc.)
- Charges incurred as a result of delays beyond the control of Pahadi Bakra Adventure
- Insurance. Trekkers are required to have a comprehensive medical insurance policy in order to embark on this expedition.
EXPENSES
For purchases and supplemental costs in India, we advise combining cash and credit/debit cards. After Manali, there aren’t many establishments that accept cards or UPI, therefore we advise you to bring additional cash. Request modest denominations of change when exchanging money because bigger note change is difficult to get outside of major cities. Alcoholic beverages and bottled beverages are not included with your meals, and as we do not promote the use of single-use plastic, it is advised that you bring your own water bottle. If you intend to purchase refreshments, please bring some additional cash. Ahead of Schedule/Evacuation You are in charge of paying any costs incurred (such as extra hotel nights, transportation costs, and evacuation fees) if you have to leave the adventure before it is finished. It is advised to purchase comprehensive travel insurance so that these expenses may be paid for should they arise.
TIPPING
Every effort is made by our staff to make sure your trip or excursion is successful, safe, and as fun as possible. Gratuities are a great way to express your gratitude after a satisfying encounter. Since we think gratuities should depend on the quantity and quality of services, as well as an amount that fits your budget, it’s challenging to suggest a precise sum. Your lead guide and coordinator can accept any contributions to the guides’ tip fund, and the entire team will be grateful.
- 25% cancellation of the package cost after confirmation/issuing the hotel voucher.
- 30% cancellation of the package cost Between 60 to 45 days of the traveling date.
- 50% cancellation of the package cost Between 44 to 30 days of the traveling date.
- 100% cancellations Between 29 – 0 days of the travels date.
- 10% amount is non-refundable at any point.
- If the customer cancels his/her booking because of reasons like Illness, personal problems death, accident or No Shows amount will be deducted according to the policy.
- All cancellations must have interacted in writing.
- Policy may be different for Foreigners or International traveler / participants.
TRIP CANCELLATION INSURANCE
- As there are many unforeseen circumstances that may occur during or leading up to the trip, we highly recommend trip cancellation insurance.
- In many situations, this may be the only way to receive a refund for unused services.
- In brief, trip cancellation insurance may allow you to get reimbursed if you need to cancel your expedition when you are not entitled to a refund from Pahadi Bakra.
PACKS & BAGS
Duffel Bag (1 Piece, 90–100L)
Primary load bag for transporting all personal gear. Should be durable, weather-resistant, and suitable for rough handling.
Backpack (1 Piece, 50–60L)
Main trekking pack for carrying daily essentials. Must have proper load distribution and hip support.
Dry Bag / Pack Liner (1 Set)
Internal waterproofing system to protect critical gear from moisture and river crossings.
CLOTHING SYSTEM
Base Layer (1 Set)
Moisture-wicking thermal layer used for temperature regulation during cold conditions.
Trekking Clothing (2–3 Sets)
Lightweight, quick-dry layers suitable for sustained movement over multiple days.
Mid Layer (1 Piece – Fleece / Light Insulation)
Active insulation layer for moderate cold during movement.
Insulated Jacket (1 Piece – Down / Synthetic)
Primary thermal layer for static conditions and high-altitude camps.
Waterproof Shell Jacket (1 Piece)
Technical outer layer providing protection from wind, precipitation, and exposure.
Waterproof Shell Pants (1 Piece)
Protective lower layer for high pass crossings and adverse weather.
Trekking Pants (1–2 Pieces)
Durable, breathable pants for daily use across varied terrain.
HEAD, HAND & FOOTWEAR
Warm Cap / Beanie (1 Piece)
Thermal protection for cold and high-altitude exposure.
Sun Cap (1 Piece) – Optional*
Protection against direct solar radiation at altitude.
Buff / Neck Gaiter (1 Piece) Optional*
Multi-use protection from wind, dust, and cold.
Insulated Gloves (1 Pair)
Primary hand protection in cold and windy conditions.
Trekking Boots (1 Pair)
Mid to high-ankle boots with stiff sole for stability on uneven terrain and load carrying.
Camp Footwear (1 Pair)
Lightweight footwear for recovery and movement at camp.
Socks (3–4 Pairs)
Combination of moisture-wicking and insulating layers for foot management.
CAMPING GEAR - Can be Rented
Sleeping Bag (1 Piece, Comfort -10°C to -20°C)
Insulated system suitable for sub-zero high-altitude conditions.
Sleeping Mat (1 Piece)
Ground insulation to reduce heat loss and improve recovery.
PERSONAL ITEMS
Headlamp (1 Piece)
Hands-free lighting system for early starts and camp movement. With extra battery or Charger.
Sunglasses (2 Piece, Category 4 or with UV Protection)
High-altitude eye protection against UV exposure and snow glare.
Sunscreen (1 Piece, SPF 50+)
Protection against intense solar radiation.
Lip Balm (1 Piece)
Prevents cracking and sun damage at altitude.
Personal First Aid Kit (1 Set)
Basic medical kit tailored to individual needs.
HYDRATION & NUTRITION
Water Bottles (2 Pieces, 1L each)
Carrying capacity for maintaining hydration at altitude.
Personal Snacks (1 Set) Optional*
Supplementary nutrition for energy during long trekking days.
MISCELLANEOUS
Trekking Poles (1 Pair)
Aid in balance, load distribution, and reducing joint strain.
Power Bank (1 Piece)
Backup power source for essential electronics.
Repair Kit (1 Set)
Basic field repair tools for gear maintenanc
DOCUMENTS
ID Proof (1 Piece)
Mandatory for permits and identification.
Insurance
Travel insurance copy printed.
Cash (Small Amount)
Required for remote regions with no digital access.
Customise This Expedition
While most of our departures are designed as small, fixed groups, this itinerary can also be run as a private or customised expedition. Group journeys often create strong connections and shared experiences, but we understand that certain trips require a more tailored approach—whether it’s timing, team composition, or objective. Over the years, Pahadi Bakra has led private expeditions across multiple Himalayan regions, working with climbers, trekkers, filmmakers, and organisations. A private departure allows for better control over pace, team size, and overall structure—especially in remote or high-altitude environments where flexibility matters.
Build It Around Your Objective
This itinerary can be adjusted based on your requirements. Whether you need a specific start date, a modified route, or additional acclimatisation days, we can structure the expedition accordingly. It also works well for focused objectives—recce trips, training-based journeys, documentation projects, or small team expeditions. We keep the approach practical—fewer people, better logistics, and a structure that fits your goal, rather than forcing you into a fixed format.
Get in Touch
If you’re looking to customise this trip or run it privately, reach out to discuss your plan. We’ll work with you to shape an expedition that fits your timeline, team, and objective.
Why Trek With Us!
