Pangong Tso
Pangong Tso Lake Travel Guide
About Pangong Tso Lake
Pangong Tso Lake, stretching 134 km and extending up to the China border from Leh in Ladakh, is one of the most stunning high-altitude lakes in India. Its shimmering blue waters set against the majestic Himalayas make it a breathtaking sight. A unique feature of the lake is that despite being a saline water body, it completely freezes during the winter, transforming into a crystalline ice mass.
Best Time to Visit Pangong Lake
The best time to visit Pangong Lake is between June and September, when the weather is pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 8 to 20°C. While winters are extremely cold, with temperatures dropping to -5°C or lower, they attract adventure enthusiasts for ice skating.
Places to See Near Pangong Lake
Shanti Stupa
A beautiful and serene Buddhist monument near Pangong Lake, Shanti Stupa was built by Japanese Buddhists and conceptualized by the Dalai Lama to promote peace and Buddhist teachings.
Chang La
One of the highest motorable roads in the world, Chang La offers breathtaking views and leads adventurers directly to Pangong Lake. The pass is named after Changla Baba, a revered saint.
Things to Do at Pangong Lake
Camping Under the Stars
Camping by the lake, with a bonfire and a sky full of stars, is a surreal experience that should not be missed.
Ice Skating
During winters (October to February), when the lake freezes completely, it becomes a natural skating rink, attracting ice-skating enthusiasts.
Wildlife Photography
Pangong Lake is a haven for bird watchers and wildlife photographers. Migratory birds like bar-headed geese and Siberian cranes can be spotted during the summer months.
How to Reach Pangong Lake?
By Road
Pangong Lake is around 150 km from Leh and can be reached via a scenic road trip through Chang La Pass.
By Train
Leh does not have its own railway station. The nearest station is Jammu Tawi Railway Station (JKSRTC), which connects to major cities.
By Air
The closest airport is Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport in Leh, with regular flights to major Indian cities.