Pangong Lake is arguably the most popular tourist places in Leh Ladakh. Pangong Tso is a Tibetan name which means “long, narrow, enchanted lake”. It’s not difficult to know why it was named so by the locals when you visit this high altitude lake in Ladakh and literally get enchanted by its pristine beauty. Located at an altitude of 14,270 feet (4,350 meters), Pangong Lake is 134 kilometers long and extends all the way to China (More than 60% of the lake is located within Chinese territory).
Acclimatization Issues in Ladakh
Pangong Lake could be reached from Leh, Changthang or even Nubra Valley. The most preferred way to reach Pangong Lake is from Leh Town where tourists need to acclimatize to high altitude pressure condition to avoid acute mountain sickness. Know why it is important and other acclimatization issues and precautions.
How to Reach Pangong Tso
Once you acquire the inner line permit, leave early for Pangong from Leh and drive/ride through some rugged yet dramatic landscape to reach the lake. The pass that you need to cross to reach is named Chang La. Chang La Pass is considered to be one of the most scenic mountain passes in Ladakh. There is a small canteen maintained by BRO and the Indian Army where tourists could have light snacks and tea. Refreshment Rooms for ladies and gentlemen are available at the top and even Yak Rides are available to those interested.
After crossing the pass, you’d reach Tangste after the ride of more than an hour. You need to show and submit one of the copies of your inner line permit at the check post here. Accommodation is also available here and the tourist who is late could spend overnight in Tangtse. The road from Tangtse to Pangong is a spectacular ride with patches of oasis and greenery where one could see Wild Asses grazing and then there are small patches of sand dunes too which is encountered en route.
The moment of wow is when the stark landscapes and barren terrain opens up to the spectacular Pangong Lake Surrounded by naked mountains on all side, this wide lake is open to tourists from May to September. The lake offers spectacular views and one could see it change the color from turquoise to emerald as the sun rays projects different angles on the water surface.
Accommodation and Homestays at Pangong Tso
Accommodation is easily available in Pangong and one need not do advance tour booking to spend overnight. There are luxury caps with hot running waters and attached toilets available from anything between INR 3000 to 5000. Then there are plenty of homestays and economy camp available at price as low as INR 150 per person in Spangmik. Facilities in these homestays are basic with no availability of running hot water or attached bathrooms.
Food in Pangong Tso
Food available in Pangong is of local flavors. There are eggs, momos, rice, curd, vegetables and Maggi available. Both vegetarian and non-vegetarian food is available at homestays and camps. In homestays, you get to dine with the owner in their very own house. Now beat that for a touch of local interaction.
Best Time to Visit Pangong Tso
Best time to visit this lake is from May to September. The road to Pangong Lake remains opens from May to October and closed in some occasional cases of heavy snowfall or landslides. In winters climate of Ladakh is very cold between November to March and Pangong Tso remain closed for the tourists.