Introducing the Trek to the Red Lake in Zanskar

Nestled amidst the breathtaking landscape of Zanskar lies the picturesque village of Photoksar, once a classic stage on the iconic Zanskar trekking route. However, the narrative has evolved over time. Today, the allure of the trek has diminished due to the advent of a newly constructed road. While Photoksar remains a sight to behold, the future of its residents hangs in uncertainty, as tourism, once a lifeline for the village economy, has dwindled.

In 2022, Himalayan Ecotourism took decisive action to rejuvenate Photoksar’s economy by reintroducing sustainable ecotourism to the valley. Our mission was clear: to craft engaging activities that would entice trekkers and eco-tourists back to this enchanting region. Remarkably, we didn’t need to venture far to find a new trekking gem—the Red Lake, nestled alongside the azure expanse of the Blue Lake, emerged as an enticing destination accessible solely from Photoksar.

Embarking on this trek is not overly challenging, yet the lofty altitudes demand careful acclimatization. Moreover, navigating several river crossings renders the trek virtually impassable before the onset of June. Join us on an unforgettable journey to rediscover the beauty of Photoksar and its surrounding treasures, where every step is imbued with the spirit of conservation and sustainable adventure.

If you’re planning to trek to Tso Marpo, it’s essential to be aware of the rules and regulations set by the Photoksar Tourism Development Committee (PTDC).

The PTDC, empowered by local authorities, has been entrusted with the management of the Tso Marpo trek area. Their primary mission is to ensure that tourism benefits the villagers of Photoksar and that the region’s fragile ecosystem remains protected. Himalayan Ecotourism (Heco) is proud to collaborate with the PTDC to enrich your trekking experience, especially through an authentic stay at the nomadic base camp built from traditional yak wool tents and equipped with eco-friendly dry toilets.

Here’s what you need to know before planning your trek:

• Permission Required: All trekkers must seek prior permission from the PTDC. This helps regulate the number of visitors and ensures that the area’s carrying capacity is not exceeded.
• PTDC Arrangements Only: The PTDC exclusively manages the logistics of the trek. This includes the allocation of trained local guides, support staff, and accommodation at the nomadic camp. Trekkers are not allowed to bring their own camping equipment or external teams.
• Inclusive Fee: A per person, per day fee is charged for the Tso Marpo trek. This includes guiding and support services, all meals, stay at the nomadic camp, and a nominal contribution toward trail maintenance and waste management.
• Photoksar Homestay Stay: Trekkers are requested to stay at least one night in a homestay in Photoksar before or after the trek. The PTDC allocates these stays to ensure a fair and inclusive benefit distribution among local families.
• Trek Checkpoint: A PTDC representative will be stationed at the trek’s starting point to ensure that only those with proper permission and arrangements are allowed to proceed.

This community-led model is part of Heco’s vision to reimagine tourism in Ladakh — a region where unchecked mass tourism has often harmed both the environment and the wellbeing of local people. The Tso Marpo trek stands as a shining example of responsible, community-owned tourism.
We’re confident you’ll appreciate this initiative and the warmth, dedication, and professionalism of the Photoksar villagers.
Feel free to contact Himalayan Ecotourism (Heco) if you need more information or help connecting with the PTDC — we’ll be happy to assist you!