Pangong Lake
A long, high-altitude lake in Ladakh whose water shifts through shades of blue through the day.
- Altitude
- About 4,225 m
- Best time
- May to September
- From Leh
- About 160 km via Chang La, around 5 to 6 hours
- Stay
- 1 night
Pangong Tso stretches for around 134 km, running from Ladakh across into Tibet. It is one of the highlights of any Ladakh trip.
It is very high, so spend time adjusting in Leh before you go. Nights are cold even in summer, and stays by the lake are simple.
Things to Do in Pangong Lake
Sunrise at the lake
The colours are at their best in the early morning, weather permitting.
Chang La
One of the high passes on the road from Leh.
Stargazing
Very dark skies make for a memorable night.
Pangong Lake FAQs
How do I avoid altitude sickness at Pangong?
Rest for at least a day or two in Leh first, stay hydrated, and ascend gradually. Ask a doctor before travelling if you have a medical condition.
Should I stay overnight at Pangong?
We recommend it. A same-day return from Leh means a very long drive.