Pangong Lake: The Definitive Travel Guide for All Seasons

Pangong Lake is a shining gem of Ladakh, the northernmost part of India. The rough terrain of the Himalayas surrounds it. This beautiful high-altitude salt lake, often Pangong Tso Lake, is over 134 kilometers long. About 60% is in Tibet, China, and the other 40% is in India. It is beautiful not only because of its sheer size but also because of how the colors of the water change all the time, going from bright blue to deep turquoise based on how the sun and clouds move. Pangong Lake, which is about 4,350 meters (14,270 feet) above sea level, is a natural wonder and a great example of how amazing nature can be.

Pangong Tso Lake is a peaceful place for people who want to get away from the noise of modern life. The rough mountains that surround this natural wonder make for a dramatic background that looks like it came from a dream. Pangong has kept its natural beauty because it is hard to get to and remote. This draws explorers, nature lovers, and curious people from all over the world. Pangong Lake promises a soul-stirring experience, whether you’re a photographer looking to capture its beauty, a birdwatcher interested in the birds that live there, or just a traveler looking for a quiet place to rest.

1. Overview
2. Highlights
3. Best Time To Visit Pangong Lake
4. Pangong Lake Height [Pangong Lake Altitude]
5. Pangong Lake Weather
6. Essential Information
7. How To Reach Pangong Lake
8. Permit For Pangong Lake
9. Itinerary For Pangong Lake Ladakh
   • Leh To Pangong Lake Via Chang La Pass – 158 Km
   • Nubra Valley To Pangong Lake Via Shyok – 171 Km
   • Nubra Valley To Pangong Lake Via Wari La Pass – 223 Km
10. Helpful Tips
11. FAQ’s

The Pangong Tso Lake is at a height of 14,270 feet (4,350 meters) and often has cold temperatures. Based on the weather at the lake, we have categorized the best time to visit Pangong Lake into 3 sections. 

• May & June are the best season as you get the most sunshine this time.
• The temperature will range around 15-20 degrees in day daytime and 10-15 degrees during the night. 
• During this time, one can see deep blue to turquoise blue waters of the lake.

• Pangong Lake sits at a height of approximately 14,270 feet (4,350 meters) above sea level.
• It is one of the most visited high-altitude salt lakes in Ladakh. 
• The high altitude means lower oxygen levels, so acclimatizing properly is crucial. Click here to learn more about acclimatization. 
• Regardless of the season, Pangong Lake’s altitude influences its weather. Even in summer, nights are quite chilly, so packing layers is essential.
• The awe-inspiring views of the Himalayan peaks, the crystal-clear blue waters, feeling of being heavenly on top of the world make the journey truly memorable.

1. Seasonal Variations:

• Summer: The last is most visited during summer months like May & June, During this time the weather is pleasant and features sunny skies and cooler daytime temperatures. 
• Spring: This is from Late August to early October. During this the rains would have stopped and offer different shades of blue across the lake. 
• Winters: The lake is transformed into a frozen lake with a snow-covered landscape transforming itself into a wonderland. 

2. Extreme Temperatures:

• The altitude of Pangong Tso Lake greatly influences its weather. Even during the summer, the nights can be quite cold, so packing warm clothing is necessary.
• Conversely, winter temperatures can drop dramatically, often reaching sub-zero levels during daytime.

3. Rain at Pangong Lake

• The lake locates itself in the rain shadow zone and hence receives a very low rainfall. One can experience the rain here and there post-summer, particularly in July and August.
• In the winter, snowfall is frequent, resulting in a snow-covered landscape and Frozen lake making it a paradise. 

4. Windy Delights

• The area around the Lake is known for its gusty winds, particularly at noon or late night. These winds add a unique experience for visitors, but the wind may pick up your belongings. 

5. Altitude’s Impact:

• The lake’s high altitude means thinner air, making the sun’s rays feel more intense. Don’t forget to pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat to protect yourself from the sun’s burns.

A few important tips and key information when you are planning a visit to Pangong Lake Ladakh. 

• This is a high altitude lake. 
• It is about 14,270 feet or 4350 meters. 

• There are no ATMs at the high-altitude lake, so carry sufficient cash while traveling. 
• While traveling from Leh, the last ATM access is located close to Tangtse village, around 40 kilometers before Pangong Lake.

The Pangong Lake lies about 150km from Leh and can be accessed only by road. Your journey begins with a flight to Leh, followed by a road trip to reach the lake.

1. Hire Local Taxi
   You can hire a local taxi from the Leh Union to visit the lake.
   The journey by car typically takes 5-6 hours to reach the lake. 
2. By Motorcycle
   You may hire a local motorbike [Royal Enfield preferred] and ride alone to the lakeside.
   The bikers need to be cautious when crossing Chang La Pass.

NOTE:

Getting acclimatized well before starting a trip to the Lake is important. Please refer to our guide on how to acclimatize to Leh Ladakh. 

• The Pangong Lake is a protected area, so an Inner line permit is required. 
• It is an easy online process obtained after arrival in Leh. 
• Both Indian and foreign nationals must carry the permit. 
• Only Jammu-Kashmir & Ladakh residents are not required for an inner line permit.

The Lake can be travelled from Leh via Chang La Pass and from Nubra Valley via Wari La Pass or Shyok. We have discussed them in detail below. 

The roadmap for the tour

Leh – Karu [36km] – Chang La [44km] – Durbuk [32km] – Tangste [10km] – Spangmik [44km] = 158 km in Total

• After morning breakfast, start the journey towards the most beautiful lake of Ladakh. 
• Your first stop is Karu (36km from Leh), a charming village that offers a taste of Ladakh’s tranquil landscape. You may also have breakfast here if you leave from Leh early. 
• Continue your drive to Chang La Pass, known for its breathtaking views and standing at an altitude of over 17,688 feet (5,300 meters), making it one of the highest motorable passes in the world.
• Descend from Chang La to reach Durbuk, a charming village in the heart of the Himalayas.
• From Durbuk, a short 10-kilometer drive takes you to Tangste, where you can rest and enjoy the lunch. This is the last village where a mobile network works. 
• Finally, make your way to Spangmik, a quaint village on the banks of Pangong Lake.

PRO TIP – We recommend the following things to remember. 

1. Please carry an Oxygen Cylinder in your vehicle. 
2. Leave early, as 7:00 AM in the morning to avoid traffic. 
3. Please make a booking of accommodations for an overnight Stay. 

The roadmap for the tour

Hunder – Diskit [12km] – T Morh [15km] – Khalsar [7km] – Agham [27km] – Shyok [47km] – Durbuk [16km] – Tangste [10km] – Spangmik [44km] = 171 Km in total

• After morning breakfast, start the journey towards the most visited lake of Ladakh. 
• Your first stop is at Diskit, the HQ of Nubra Valley, known for its scenic landscapes and the stunning Diskit Monastery. This is for fueling stop at the petrol bunk. 
• From Diskit, drive to T Morh, a small village, to continue your adventure into the heart of Ladakh. This is the gateway for the Siachen base camp. 
• Your next stop is Khalsar, a quaint village surrounded by snow-capped peaks, offering a glimpse of the region’s natural beauty.
• Your next stop is Khalsar, a quaint village surrounded by snow-capped peaks, offering a glimpse of the region’s natural beauty.
• As you head towards your next destination, drive along the Shyok River, surrounded by rugged terrain and stunning vistas. This road is risky in the rainy season due to floods in the river Shyok. 
• Arrive in Durbuk, a charming village in the heart of the Himalayas, where get the check post to verify the inner line permits.
• From Durbuk, a short 10-kilometer drive takes you to Tangste, where you can rest and plan a break for lunch.
• Finally, make your way to Spangmik, a picturesque village located on the shores of Pangong Tso, where you can relax and admire the stunning lake views.

PRO TIP – We recommend the following things to remember. 

1. Please carry an Oxygen Cylinder in your vehicle. 
2. Leave early, at 7:00 AM in the morning to avoid traffic. 
3. Please make a booking of accommodations for an overnight Stay. 
4. Please do not consider this route in the monsoon season (Jul & August). 

The roadmap for the tour

Hunder – Diskit [12km] – T Morh [15km] – Khalsar [7km] – Agham [27km] – Wari La Pass [35km] – Sakti [26km] – Chang La Pass [36km] – Durbuk [32km] – Tangste [10km] – Spangmik [44km] = 235 Km in Total

• Start your day with a hearty breakfast to energize the journey ahead.
• Your journey begins from Hunder to Diskit, a picturesque Nubra Valley town renowned for its scenic beauty and the awe-inspiring Diskit Monastery.
• Continue your drive to T Morh, a tranquil village that is the start point for Siachen Glacier.
• Next on your route is Agham, a charming village known for its traditional Ladakhi architecture and cultural richness.
• Embark on a thrilling drive to Wari La Pass, where you’ll traverse through rugged terrain and enjoy breathtaking views from this high-altitude vantage point. The most off journey to Pangong Lake. 
• Descend from the pass to reach Sakti, a village where you can take a small break before ascending to Chang La Pass. 
• Drive to Chang La Pass, one of the world’s highest motorable passes.
• Continue your journey to Durbuk, a charming village in the heart of the Himalayas, where your inner line permits are checked. 
• From Durbuk, a short 10-kilometer drive takes you to Tangste, where you can relax and enjoy a hot lunch at a cafe or restaurant or local Dhaba.
• Finally, arrive in Spangmik, a picturesque village on the banks of Pangong Tso, where you can savour the beauty of the lake’s azure waters and unwind in a peaceful setting.

PRO TIP – We recommend the following things to remember. 

1. Please carry an Oxygen Cylinder in your vehicle. 
2. Leave early, at 4:00 AM in the morning, to avoid traffic. 
3. Please make a booking of accommodations for an overnight Stay. 
4. Please do not consider this route in the monsoon season (July & August). 

1. Acclimatize Gradually
   Due to the high altitude of the Lake, it’s crucial to acclimatize slowly to prevent altitude sickness. Spend a day or two in Leh to adjust to the altitude before heading to the lake.
2. Pack Warm Clothing
   Even in the summer, Pangong Lake can get chilly, especially at night. Pack warm clothing, including layers, thermal wear, and a good-quality jacket, to stay comfortable.
3. Stay Hydrated
   The dry mountain air can lead to dehydration, so drink plenty of water. Avoid alcohol and caffeine, as they can lead to dehydration. 
4. Respect the Environment
   The lake’s ecosystem is fragile, so please follow the “Leave No Trace” principles. Dispose of your waste responsibly, and avoid picking flowers or disturbing wildlife. 
5. Prepare for Limited Connectivity
   Mobile network coverage can be spotty or non-existent in some areas around the lake. Inform your loved ones about your travel plans.