Pangong Lake: The Jewel of Ladakh

At 4,350 m (14,270 ft), Pangong Tso (“Tso” = lake in Ladakhi) is the highest saltwater lake in the world and arguably the most mesmerising body of water on the planet. Stretching 134 km from India to Tibet (only 30–40 % lies in India), it is famous for changing colour every hour — from turquoise to sapphire to emerald to deep indigo — all framed by stark, barren 6,000 m peaks.

Why Pangong is Pure Magic

• The 3 Idiots “final scene” shooting point (every Indian visitor wants that photo!)
• No vegetation, no habitation — just you, the lake, and the endless sky
• One of the best places on earth to see the Milky Way with naked eyes
• Zero light pollution, freezing silence, and air so thin you can hear your own heartbeat

Key Highlights

• Spangmik Village – Main tourist area (the classic 3 Idiots point)
• Mann, Merak & Kakstet – Quieter villages further along the Indian side
• Shooting Point & 3 Idiots Cafe – Yes, it’s touristy, but still fun
• Winter (Dec–April) – Lake completely frozen; you can walk or even drive across parts

Practical Travel Information (2025)

• Distance from Leh: 160 km (5–6 hrs via Chang La – 5,360 m)
• Permit: Free online Protected Area Permit (apply at lahdc-leh.nic.in)
• Best time to visit**:
  – May–September: Road open, bright blue colours
  – September–October: Fewer crowds, golden landscape
  – Winter: Only reachable by special winter expeditions
• Road condition** – Fully black-topped till Spangmik (2025), last 5 km to Merak still rough
• Altitude sickness risk** – Very high. Overnight stay only if fully acclimatised (2–3 days in Leh first)
• Taxi rates from Leh (2025)**:
  – Shared taxi: ₹900–1300 per seat return (same-day)
  – Private Innova: ₹14,000–18,000 (overnight at Pangong)
  – 2-day Nubra + Pangong combo: ₹22,000–28,000
• Stay options**:
  – Luxury camps with attached toilets & heating: ₹8000–20,000 (Pangong Sarai, Alpine Cottage, Wonder Lake)
  – Basic camps & homestays in Spangmik/Merak: ₹4000–8000 with meals
  – Day-trip is most common (leave Leh 5 AM, back by 9–10 PM)
• Facilities** – Hot meals (maggi, thukpa, momos) available everywhere; eco-toilets; no ATMs, no petrol pump
• Temperature** – Nights drop to −5°C to −15°C even in summer. Carry heavy jackets.