The June story

June Tso Moriri is the full experience. The lake is clear, blue, and 28km of high-altitude perfection. The morning reflection — snow-capped peaks mirrored in still water at 4,522m — is a photograph that no filter can improve. The Changpa camps at the lake edge add human warmth: yak-butter tea offered to visitors, children playing, pashmina goats being guided to pasture. The Korzok monastery (400+ years old) overlooks the lake — a tiny gompa with enormous views. The black-necked crane nesting grounds (visible with binoculars from respectful distance) are one of only two breeding sites in India. The bar-headed geese, brahminy ducks, and ruddy shelducks add to the birdlife. The accommodation at Korzok homestays is basic (bucket hot water, shared meals, simple rooms) but the hospitality is genuine. The night sky — zero light pollution at 4,522m — shows the Milky Way as a physical presence. June at Tso Moriri is what Pangong was before the movies.