Do you remember the climax scene of the Bollywood film 3 Idiots? If you have, then you are already in awe with this endorheic lake. Yes, we are talking about Pangong Tso or Pangong Lake in Leh, Ladakh. The spectacular Himalayan backdrop, and the magical color transition from azure to mild blue to green to gray of this lake keep the onlookers mesmerized. However, this saline water body is nestled at an elevation of 4,225 m, spanning eastern Ladakh and western Tibet. Its geographical location makes the trip challenging. But all the troubles perish the moment you get to see this stunning beauty.
A large number of bikers and tourists come to Pangong Tso. However, you need to remember that it is the world’s highest saltwater lake and the sudden change in weather is common. If you are visiting Ladakh, you are required to acclimatize yourself with its harsh weather. Here are important points to remember before booking Flights to Ladakh.
How To Reach
By Air
To visit Pangong Lake, you need to reach Leh. Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport is the only domestic airport that connects Ladakh with the rest of India. If you are taking a flight, you may find good deals on Lowest Flight Fares. The distance from Leh to Pangong Tso is 225 km and takes 5 hours 22 minutes by road.
By Train
There is no station in Ladakh. The nearest station to Leh is Kalka. Regular bus and taxi service is available for Manali via Shimla. From Manali, you can get buses and taxis to Leh directly.
By Road
A Ladakh bike trip is a dream to all bikers. You not only face challenges, but you are greeted by some of the never-seen-before, breathtaking vistas of the Himalayas. It is just a 5 hours drive from Leh to Pangong Lake through Chang La Pass and then through Tangste. The lake is also connected from Nubra Valley directly by the Shyok Village route and by the Wari La Pass route. Motorbikes, cars, taxis, and jeeps are available at a reasonable price. However, if you are riding alone, take extra fuel from Leh, as you won’t find any petrol pump on the way.
Best Time to Visit
The peak season to visit the lake begins from April until October. Winters here are harsh and hence, should be avoided. The temperature varies from -25℃ in winter to 10℃ in summer. It is tough to survive in its winter and the lack of oxygen makes it even worse. Hence, plan your trip during summer, which is comfortable, and you can get to see migratory birds and clear vistas of the lake.
Moreover, if you are somehow visiting the lake during winter, don’t forget to attend the ice-skating festival, which is played on the frozen lake.
Get Inner Line Permit
The lake is located on the Indo-China border and hence tourists require a special permit to visit the lake. Indian tourists can apply for Inner Line Permit, while foreigners, except for Bhutanese citizens need to get Protected Area Permit. Online permits are also available.
Acclimatize Yourself
Tourists visiting Ladakh are required to undergo a 48-hours acclimatization. Maximum travelers can easily reach 2,500 to 3,000 m above sea level, without feeling any discomfort or sickness. But Leh and other places in Ladakh are located at an elevation of 3,000 m or above and it is common to experience the effect of acute mountain sickness (AMS) here. The lack of oxygen at a great height is the major reason for AMS. Hence, before planning a trip to Ladakh, consider spending two days acclimatizing with its climate.
Interestingly, during the acclimatization period, you may not visit the major tourist areas like Nubra Valley, Khardung La Pass or Pangong Tso. However, you can visit the nearby markets and other areas of interest in Leh town.
Accommodation
The lake is surrounded by the tall mountains and is isolated. Basics like electricity, internet, food, water are luxuries here. You may not find any Pangong Lake hotel or resort here. But that’s the beauty of this magical waterbody. Tourists planning for an overnight stay, then tents are the only option. Camping is allowed on the shore, which is something you must consider.
However, if you don’t want to compromise with your luxury, then there are two nearby Ladakhi villages- Lukung and Spangmik, where you will find eco huts and standard hotels with basic amenities. However, camping by the shore can offer you the once-in-a-lifetime experience. You can spend the night admiring our galaxy and wake up to an ethereal view of the Himalayas.
Things To Do
There are plenty of things to do on your way to the lake and even on the site. However, the best thing to do here is just admire and appreciate the spectacular landscapes of this land. Here are a few things to consider:
Play With The Marmot On Your Way
If you are coming from Leh to Pangong Lake, stop by the sign that says ‘Stop Here To See Rare Endemic Species Marmot’. These furry little creatures live in the burrows and are very friendly. Take some cute pictures of them in their natural habitat. Visitors are not allowed to feed them, as once they get used to it, they will starve later during off season.
Admire The Migratory Birds
The lake is home to several migratory birds, who visit their second home during peak season. Species like bar-headed goose, brahminy ducks, raven, red-billed chough, chukar, Tibetan snowcock are a common sight. These beautiful bird species migrate to south India in winter to escape the extreme cold of this region.
Click Some Candid Pictures
The beauty of the lake is a sight to behold. It is a bliss for the eyes and for the camera. Given the multi-shaded blue color of the lake and the surrounding mountain vistas, it is a perfect muse for the photographers. Even if you are not a professional photographer or you don’t own a good quality camera, take as many pictures and selfies as you want. The unadulterated beauty of this place is mesmerizing that each picture will come out as if it was photoshopped.
Skate Across The Frozen Lake in Winter
If you are into snowsports, visit the lake during winter. In winter, the lake gets frozen and sports like ice hockey and ice skating are being organized. December to February is the ideal time to slide across the frozen lake. The thickness of the ice cover ranges between 14 to 16 inches, which easily hold up so many players.
Maggi, Momos, and Thukpa- The Mountain Delights
No trip to the mountains is complete without savoring a bowl of maggi. Visit the Army Cafeteria at Chang La Pass and order a bowl of maggi. The options are limited. Grab a plate of Aloo Paratha, sandwich, tea, and maggi. Even on the shores of the lake, you will find some local vendors selling thukpa, maggi, and momos. Have some while admiring the sublime vistas.
Spend The Night Stargazing
If you are planning for an overnight stay near the lake, several tents are available. You will be amazed by looking at the billions of stars glittering in the sky. Because the lake is isolated and far from the nearby town, it offers one of the most clear night skies for stargazing. Shooting stars are common sights here.
Top Tips To Remember
- 48-hours acclimatization is a must.
- Bring as many warm clothes as you can. Even if you are visiting the lake in summer, the temperature can drop to less than 10℃.
- Moisturizer, sunscreen, and sunglasses are a must.
- Rent an oxygen cylinder, if you think you may suffer from breathing issues.
- If you are driving by yourself, make sure you have a higher ground clearance car.
- Inner Line Permit is required.
- Carry plenty of water, chocolate, and snacks. The food options here are limited.
- Carry spare fuel. You may not find any petrol pump, once you leave Leh.
- Mountain sickness is common and hence bring first-aid kit and some doctor prescribed medicines.
Bottom Line
The bottom line is simple. Once you visit Ladakh there’s no chance you wouldn’t come back to this magical land of cold desert. Pangong Lake, being one of the highest endorheic lakes in the world attracts thousands of visitors from all over the world. Whether you want to hit the Himalayan road or trek through the Himalayan valley, in Ladakh, you will be overwhelmed by the unadulterated beauty.
