Pangong Lake is a large saline lake located at approximately 4,350 meters above sea level on the high-altitude plateau of Ladakh in the Himalayas. Stretching about 134 kilometers long, roughly 60% of the lake lies within Chinese territory, while the remaining portion lies in India, covering an area of approximately 604 square kilometers.

The lake is surrounded by barren sandstone mountains and enjoys clear skies with minimal cloud cover year-round, making it a premier destination for stargazing and capturing the Milky Way, free from light pollution. Its vibrant blue waters reflect the pristine skies, creating a spectacular natural spectacle.

The region around Pangong Lake is inhabited by the Ladakhi people, who maintain a traditional Tibetan-Buddhist lifestyle closely connected with nature. Visitors can explore the unique culture, local crafts, and traditional cuisine of the area.

The optimal visiting season is from August to early October when weather conditions are favorable, with cool temperatures and safe road access. In winter, parts of the lake freeze, and many campsites close due to harsh weather and snowstorms, which can limit accessibility.

Popular activities include trekking along scenic routes, camping by the lakeside in tents or eco-friendly lodges, nature photography, and cultural interactions with local communities.

Travelers should be aware of the potential for altitude sickness and rapidly changing weather. Proper preparation, warm clothing, and prior checks on road and accommodation conditions are essential for a safe and enjoyable trip.

• Approximately 4-5 hours by car from Leh city via the Leh-Spiti highway with breathtaking mountain views

• Recommended to hire a driver or join guided tours due to challenging mountain roads

• Always check weather and road conditions before traveling, especially during late autumn and winter months

• Pack appropriate warm clothing, sleeping bags, gloves, hats, and hot water bottles for cold nights

• Bring flashlights and other portable lighting due to limited electricity availability at campsites

• Stay hydrated and monitor for altitude sickness symptoms

• Confirm campsite availability ahead of time, especially after mid-October when many close due to weather

• Plan to stay overnight to enjoy sunrise, sunset, and night sky photography

Admission Fee: Free of charge

Opening Time: Open year-round; best visited from August to early October