Pangong Tso

Pangong Tso, also known as Pangong Lake, is one of the most amazing high-altitude lakes in Ladakh. Located at about 14,270 feet above sea level, the lake stretches for nearly 134 km, with one-third of it in India and the rest in Tibet. The clear blue waters of the lake, surrounded by barren mountains, create a breathtaking sight.

The lake is known for changing colours throughout the day, from deep blue to green and sometimes golden. It gained worldwide attention after being featured in popular films, which made it a must-visit spot in Ladakh. Travellers often book Ladakh Tour Packages that include transport, stay, and permits, since visiting the lake requires planning.

Over the years, Pangong Tso has become a dream destination for both Indian and international tourists. Its unique beauty, peaceful atmosphere, and high-altitude setting make it one of the most iconic natural wonders in the Himalayas.

Best Time to Visit Pangong Tso:

The Best Time to visit Pangong Tso is from May to September, when the weather is pleasant and the roads from Leh remain open. During these months, the lake shines in brilliant shades of blue, offering perfect views for photography and sightseeing. Winters are extremely cold, and the lake freezes completely, which is fascinating but difficult to access due to road closures and heavy snowfall.

How To Reach Pangong Tso:

By Air:

Direct Flight

1. Departure City: New Delhi and other cities
2. Arrival City & Airport: Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport, Leh
3. Time Taken: Around 1.5-2 hours
4. Airlines: Air India, IndiGo, Vistara, Go First

Connecting Flight

1. Departure City: Mumbai, Bengaluru, Kolkata, Chennai
2. Arrival City & Airport: Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport, Leh
3. Layover Cities: New Delhi
4. Time Taken: Around 5-7 hours (including layover)
5. Airlines: Air India, IndiGo, Vistara, Go First

By Road:

From Leh, Pangong Tso is about 160 km away and can be reached in 5-6 hours by car, taxi, or bike. The route passes through Chang La Pass, one of the highest motorable passes in the world, offering breathtaking mountain views. Shared taxis and private cabs are easily available from Leh.

By Rail:

There is no direct rail connectivity to Pangong Tso. The nearest major railway station is Jammu Tawi, around 700 km from Leh. From Jammu, one can travel by bus, taxi, or flight to Leh, and then continue the journey to Pangong Tso by road.

Places To Visit Pangong Tso:

Pangong Tso is surrounded by stunning attractions that make the trip even more memorable. Here are the top Places to visit in Pangong Tso region-

1. Pangong Lake Viewpoint: The main viewpoint near Lukung village offers the best all-around view of the lake’s changing colours.
2. Spangmik Village: A small village by the lake, known for homestays and campsites, giving travellers a chance to experience local hospitality.
3. Chang La Pass: On the way to Pangong, this high mountain pass offers thrilling views and is a favourite among bikers.
4. Merak Village: A peaceful village on the banks of the lake, ideal for those who prefer less crowded spots.
5. Mann Village: Another charming lakeside village, perfect for photography and experiencing Ladakhi village life.

These spots, combined with the lake’s beauty, make Pangong Tso Tourism one of the highlights of any Ladakh trip.