Golden Mark Hut and Camp: A Retreat at Korzok Village by Tso Moriri

Ladakh is a land of contrasts—where barren, rugged landscapes give way to serene lakes, and where ancient traditions blend seamlessly with the simplicity of rural life. Among the many treasures of this high-altitude desert, Korzok Village stands out as a unique blend of cultural richness and natural beauty. Perched on the shores of the magnificent Tso Moriri lake, Korzok offers a rare glimpse into the life of the Changpa nomads, the beauty of Ladakh’s wilderness, and the spirituality of its ancient monasteries.

Nestled in the serene landscape of Korzok Village, just a short distance from the tranquil waters of Tso Moriri, the Golden Mark Hut and Camp offers travelers a unique and cozy experience in one of the most remote and pristine regions of Ladakh. This charming accommodation provides the perfect blend of comfort and simplicity, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the rugged beauty of the Changthang plateau while enjoying warm Ladakhi hospitality.

Midday: Exploring Korzok Village and Nomadic Life 1. Stroll Through Korzok Village Korzok Village is small, with only a handful of houses made from stone and mud, but it’s rich in culture and tradition. Take a leisurely stroll through the village to observe the daily life of the locals. The village is home to the Changpa nomads, who have lived in this region for centuries, herding yaks and pashmina goats.

Location: A Gateway to Tso Moriri

Golden Mark Hut and Camp enjoys a prime location in Korzok Village, which is perched on the northwestern shore of Tso Moriri, the largest high-altitude lake in India. The camp is just a stone’s throw away from the lake, offering guests breathtaking views of the shimmering blue waters surrounded by snow-capped mountains. The tranquil setting, far from the noise of city life, provides an ideal retreat for nature lovers, adventurers, and those seeking spiritual solace.


Korzok Village, one of the highest inhabited settlements in the world, is home to the Changpa nomads and the Korzok Monastery, making it a culturally rich destination. Staying at Golden Mark Hut and Camp allows visitors to explore the village and its surroundings at a leisurely pace while enjoying the peaceful ambiance of this remote location.

Evening: Sunset Over the Mountains and Stargazing 1. Sunset Over the Mountains As the day comes to an end, make your way back to the village or find a spot on the higher ground to watch the sunset over the mountains. The changing colors of the sky, as the sun dips behind the peaks, are a sight to behold. The reflections on Tso Moriri add to the magic, making it a moment of pure beauty and calm.

Accommodation: Rustic Charm with Modern Comforts

Golden Mark Hut and Camp offers a variety of accommodation options that cater to different types of travelers. Whether you're an adventure enthusiast looking for a rustic camping experience or a traveler seeking a more comfortable stay in a traditional Ladakhi hut, this place has something for everyone.


1. Ladakhi Huts

The Ladakhi huts at Golden Mark are built in the traditional style, using local materials such as stone and mud, which help to insulate against the chilly nights at such high altitudes. These huts provide a cozy and authentic experience, giving visitors a taste of how locals live in this harsh yet beautiful environment. The interiors are simple but comfortable, equipped with basic amenities such as warm bedding, clean bathrooms, and heating facilities for the cold nights.


2. Tented Camps

For those who prefer a closer connection with nature, the tented camp option is ideal. The tents are spacious and well-maintained, providing a perfect blend of adventure and comfort. Guests can fall asleep under a blanket of stars and wake up to the stunning views of Tso Moriri just outside their tent. The tents are equipped with proper bedding, and there are shared bathroom facilities with hot water, ensuring that your camping experience is both comfortable and enjoyable.


Both the huts and tents are designed to offer a warm and welcoming atmosphere in this high-altitude region, where the nights can get cold, especially outside of the summer months.

For those seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure, Tso Moriri presents an opportunity to experience Ladakh in its most untouched and pristine form.

Dining: Savoring the Flavors of Ladakh

One of the highlights of staying at Golden Mark Hut and Camp is the chance to savor authentic Ladakhi cuisine in a homely environment. The camp offers delicious home-cooked meals prepared with locally sourced ingredients. Guests can enjoy traditional dishes such as thukpa (a hearty noodle soup), momos (dumplings), and butter tea, all of which are perfect for keeping warm in the chilly mountain air.


Meals are served in a communal dining area, allowing guests to interact with fellow travelers and share stories of their adventures. The cozy, warm ambiance of the dining area, combined with the delicious food, makes every meal a delightful experience. For those with specific dietary preferences, the camp staff is accommodating and can provide simple meals that cater to different tastes.


Activities: Exploring the Beauty of Tso Moriri and Beyond

Golden Mark Hut and Camp serves as an excellent base for exploring the many attractions in and around Korzok Village. There is no shortage of things to see and do during your stay:


1. Tso Moriri Lake

The highlight of any visit to Korzok is, of course, Tso Moriri Lake itself. Guests can take leisurely walks along the lake’s shore, admiring the crystal-clear waters and the stunning reflections of the surrounding mountains. The lake is also a paradise for birdwatchers, as it attracts several species of migratory birds, including the rare black-necked crane and bar-headed geese.


2. Korzok Monastery

A visit to the ancient Korzok Monastery is a must for anyone staying in the village. This 300-year-old gompa is one of the highest monasteries in the world and offers not only a spiritual experience but also panoramic views of Tso Moriri and the surrounding region. Guests staying at Golden Mark can easily walk to the monastery and spend time exploring its history and interacting with the monks.


3. Trekking and Nature Walks

The area around Korzok is perfect for trekking and nature walks, with several trails that take you into the heart of the Changthang plateau. Whether it’s a short hike along the lake or a more challenging trek into the mountains, the landscapes you’ll encounter are nothing short of breathtaking. The camp staff can help arrange guided treks for those looking to explore the region more deeply.


4. Cultural Interactions with Changpa Nomads

One of the unique aspects of staying in Korzok is the opportunity to interact with the Changpa nomads who live in this region. The Changpa people are semi-nomadic herders, known for their pashmina wool production. Guests can visit their camps, learn about their way of life, and even witness traditional practices such as yak herding and wool spinning.

The Beauty of Tso Moriri: A Symphony of Colors and Silence Tso Moriri is a sight to behold. The lake stretches approximately 28 kilometers in length and 5 to 8 kilometers in width, surrounded by the barren, snow-covered mountains of the Ladakh and Zanskar ranges. The water of the lake is a deep blue, reflecting the ever-changing hues of the sky, from bright turquoise under the midday sun to a dark, almost navy blue as evening sets in.

Evening: Unwind Under the Stars

After a day of exploration, the evenings at Golden Mark Hut and Camp are the perfect time to unwind. The remote location of the camp means that there is no light pollution, making it an excellent spot for stargazing. On clear nights, the sky is filled with countless stars, and you can even see the Milky Way stretching across the horizon.


Gather around a campfire with fellow travelers, share stories, and enjoy the peacefulness of the night as the cold mountain air sets in. The simplicity and quiet of the surroundings create a sense of tranquility that is hard to find elsewhere.

The area around Tso Moriri is part of the Tso Moriri Wetland Conservation Reserve, a protected area that is home to a variety of wildlife, including the rare and endangered black-necked crane, bar-headed geese, Himalayan marmots, and Tibetan wolves. The lake and its surroundings are also a vital habitat for migratory birds, making it a paradise for birdwatchers.

Practical Information for Visitors

Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Korzok Village and stay at Golden Mark Hut and Camp is between May and September, when the weather is relatively mild, and the roads are open. During the winter months, heavy snowfall makes the region inaccessible.

Acclimatization: Given the high altitude of Korzok Village (around 4,595 meters), it’s important to spend a few days acclimatizing in Leh or other lower-altitude areas to avoid altitude sickness.

Permits: An Inner Line Permit (ILP) is required to visit Tso Moriri and the surrounding areas. These permits can be obtained in Leh.

Facilities: While the camp offers comfortable accommodation, it’s important to remember that the facilities are basic, as this is a remote area. Guests are advised to carry their own toiletries and any personal essentials they may need.

Soon we were in Karzok, the only village on the bank of Tso Moriri. We had a quick lunch at one of the local restaurants and then started searching for a place to stay. We found out that the rooms in even the most average of the homestays too were very expensive. We managed to find a cottage on the banks of the little stream that flows through the village for a more reasonable price and checked in.

Golden Mark Hut and Camp in Korzok Village offers more than just a place to stay; it provides an authentic experience of Ladakh’s remote beauty and culture. Whether you're gazing at the shimmering waters of Tso Moriri, trekking through the rugged landscapes of the Changthang plateau, or learning about the ancient traditions of the Changpa nomads, every moment spent here is filled with wonder and discovery.


For those seeking a retreat from the bustle of everyday life and an immersion into Ladakh’s serene wilderness, a stay at Golden Mark Hut and Camp is an unforgettable adventure.

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