A Complete Travel Guide to Rumtse Village in Ladakh
Rumtse Village in Ladakh is a quiet, peaceful place high up in the mountains, about 75 kilometers southeast of Leh in Ladakh, India. It’s located along a big road called the Leh-Manali Highway and is the starting point for an exciting journey to a beautiful lake called Tso Moriri. The village is surrounded by empty, rocky mountains, colorful rocks, and wide green fields. Many people come here to walk and explore the amazing scenery. Rumtse isn’t crowded, and the people there live in simple ways that have been part of Ladakhi tradition for a long time. It’s a special place where visitors can see what life in the mountains is like.
How to reach Rumtse Village in Ladakh
1. By Air
The nearest airport to Rumtse is Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport in Leh, around 75 kilometers away. From Leh, travelers can hire taxis or take local buses to reach Rumtse.
2. By Train
There is no direct railway connectivity to Ladakh. The nearest major railway station is Jammu Tawi, approximately 700 kilometers away. From Jammu, travelers can reach Leh by road and continue to Rumtse.
3. By Road
Rumtse is located on the Leh-Manali Highway (NH3). Travelers can take a direct taxi, private vehicle, or Himachal Pradesh State Transport buses from Leh, Manali, or other nearby regions to reach the village.
Best time to visit Rumtse Village in Ladakh

With clear skies and temperatures between 15°C and 25°C. This is a great time for walking, sightseeing, and seeing the beautiful scenery. The road that goes to Rumtse, called the Leh-Manali Highway, stays open, so you can get there easily. In winter, from October to May, it gets very cold and snowy, and the roads are often closed, making travel difficult.
Travel Tips for Visiting Rumtse Village in Ladakh
1. Altitude Precaution – Rumtse is at a high altitude, so acclimate in Leh for a day or two before visiting to avoid altitude sickness. Carry medicines like Diamox if needed.
2. Permits – If planning to trek to Tso Moriri or other restricted areas, ensure you have the necessary Inner Line Permits (ILP) from Leh.
3. Eco-Friendly Travel – Respect the fragile mountain ecosystem. Avoid plastic, do not litter, and prefer reusable water bottles.
4. Photography Etiquette – Always ask for permission before photographing local residents or their homes.
5. Respect Monasteries and Sacred Sites – If you visit nearby monasteries, maintain silence, dress modestly, and follow the rules.
Conclusion
Rumtse Village in Ladakh is a special place that many people might not know about. It’s high up in the mountains where the air is thin and the views are amazing. Here, you can see the old Ladakhi way of life, walk exciting trails to beautiful places like Tso Moriri, or just enjoy the peaceful scenery. If you plan carefully, listen to the local customs, and get ready for the mountain adventures, you’ll have a safe and unforgettable time in this quiet mountain village.
People Also Ask About Rumtse Village in Ladakh
1. What is Rumtse Village famous for?
Rumtse Village is known for its stunning high-altitude landscapes, colorful mountain formations, and being the starting point of the popular trekking route to Tso Moriri Lake.
2. What are the accommodation options in Rumtse Village?
Accommodation in Rumtse is basic, with homestays and guesthouses offering simple facilities. Most trekkers prefer to camp in the area.
3. Is Rumtse Village suitable for trekking?
Yes, Rumtse is the starting point for the famous Rumtse to Tso Moriri trek, which offers breathtaking views of the Changthang region.
4. Is a permit required to visit Rumtse Village?
While Rumtse itself does not require a permit, visitors planning to trek to Tso Moriri or other restricted areas must obtain an Inner Line Permit (ILP) from Leh.
5. How far is Rumtse Village from Leh?
Rumtse Village is approximately 75 kilometers southeast of Leh, located along the Leh-Manali Highway.