Pangong Lake

All You Need to Know about Pangong TSO Lake

Getting there : 
The most comfortable option road to Nubra valley is via KhardungLa 18350ft
Altitude : 10,000 ft
Distance : 130kmfrom leh city
Main places to stay in : Hunder village, Sumer village, Turtuk village , 
Best time: May -September 
Winter is also good to visit there
lunch enroute Restaurent : at khalsar , 
Check point : south pole and North pole 
Inner line permit : required  

Pangong Lake or Pangong Tso which means ‘High Grassland Lake’, located at an altitude of 14,270 ft above sea level is believed to be the highest saltwater lakes in the world. The serene spectacular lake is a must visit place in the tourism map.  It forms a part of the Indo China border and measures around 40 miles in length. In fact, the major portion of the lake nearly 75 percent is in China and only 25% is in India.



The lake is situated 154 km from Leh and to reach Pangong you have to cross the world third highest mountain pass the Changla Pass at 5,360 meter (17,586 ft). After crossing the pass, you will get to Durbuk and Tangste village which is nearly 35 km drive to reach Pangong. The lakeside village is known as Spangmik.

The mesmerizing beauty of the landscape and a dazzling colour variation including deep blue, turquoise, etc. of the lake water according to the time of the day attracts tourist from all over the world. A number of migratory birds like Brahmani ducks, Bar-headed goose and wildlife like marmot and wild ass locally known as ‘Kiang’ can be spotted.

The lake is high in salinity but still remains frozen in the winter months. The best time to visit the lake is in the peak summer season (May- September).

Things to do at Pangong Lake

Admire the beauty and experience a wonderful time at the lakeside away from the hustle and bustle life. The awe-inspiring lake and the serene landscape is definitely a therapy for a stressful life.  Trip to Pangong Lake includes an overnight stay in the camp tent and a sky full of stars, the sound of the water, cold air, and a bonfire will make the Pangong trip more memorable and complete.

During the day time, you can explore the famous 3 Idiot shooting spot named after the famous Bollywood movie ‘3 Idiots’.  The famous yellow scooter, the three drums are also placed on the shore of the lake to take photographs. You can hire the traditional attire and get your picture clicked with the awe-inspiring picturesque view of the lake at the backdrop. Also, a Yak ride along the shores of Pangong Lake can also be experienced.

Places to Visit near Pangong Lake

Tangtse village is the nearest stopover to Pangong Lake and the famous Tangtse monastery on a hilltop adds more charm. The monastery features Skyoba Jigsten Gombo, the founder of Drikung Kagyu sect.
 
The Pangong area comes under Changthang cold desert wildlife sanctuary. Between Tangtse village and Pangong lake, you can spot Himalayan Marmots easily from the road. (Feeding them is strictly prohibited)

Travel along the banks of lake exploring the beautiful Maan Merak village further driving towards Chushul, Rizangla, the battlefield of 1962 war, then across Tsaga la, Tsaga to Loma is also opened.