Leh to Pangong Lake – Complete Travel Guide & Routes Explained

Pangong Lake—famous for its mesmerizing blue waters and dramatic Himalayan backdrop—is one of the most iconic attractions in Ladakh. Stretching over 134 km, with one-third in India and the rest extending into Tibet, Pangong Lake is a breathtaking natural wonder that draws thousands of travelers every year. The journey from Leh to Pangong Lake is equally spectacular, filled with mountain passes, scenic valleys, wildlife sightings, and unforgettable views.

This detailed guide covers all the routes, distance, time, permits, best season, bike/car travel tips, packing list, and everything you need for a smooth and memorable trip from Leh to Pangong Lake.

? Distance & Travel Time

  • Distance: 160 km (approx.)

  • Travel Time: 5–6 hours by road

  • Best Mode of Travel: Car, SUV, bike, or taxi

Roads are well-maintained by BRO but can have snow patches, water crossings, and sharp curves.

? 3 Routes from Leh to Pangong Lake

There are three major routes to reach Pangong Lake from Leh. Each offers unique landscapes and travel experiences.

? 1. Leh ? Karu ? Sakti ? Chang La ? Durbuk ? Tangtse ? Pangong Lake

Most Popular & Scenic Route

  • Distance: ~160 km

  • Travel Time: 5–6 hours

  • Highest Point: Chang La Pass (17,590 ft)

This is the most common route used by travelers and tour operators.

Major Highlights:

  • Scenic mountain views

  • Visit Chang La, the 3rd highest motorable pass

  • Beautiful roads maintained by BRO

  • Stop at Sakti and Durbuk village

Must-Visit Spots en route:

  • Chemrey Monastery

  • Chang La Café (hot tea at 17,000+ ft!)

  • Tsoltak Lake (small high-altitude lake)

  • Tangtse Valley

? 2. Leh ? Upshi ? Chumathang ? Merak ? Pangong (via Chushul)

Offbeat, Longer Route (Ideal for Repeat Travelers)

  • Distance: ~220 km

  • Travel Time: 6–7 hours

  • Difficulty: Moderate

  • Special: Follows the Indus River; fewer tourists

This route is perfect for travelers who prefer peaceful, offbeat paths. It passes through remote villages and hot springs.

Must-Visit Spots:

  • Chumathang Hot Springs

  • Nyoma village

  • Merak & Man Village (beautiful lakeside villages)

Note:

Inner-line permit with extra Chushul permit is required.

? 3. Nubra Valley ? Shyok ? Durbuk ? Pangong Lake

Fastest Route for Travelers Coming From Nubra

  • Distance: ~170 km

  • Travel Time: 5–6 hours

  • Route Condition: Good but narrow

This route connects the two major tourist attractions—Nubra Valley and Pangong Lake—saving a full day.

Why Choose This Route?

  • Saves time

  • Amazing views

  • Ideal for travelers on a 5–6 day itinerary

Note:

Roads can get slippery due to melting snow in summer.

? Best Time to Visit Pangong Lake

? April–May

Snow begins to melt; roads open gradually.

? June–September

Peak season, best weather, blue water at its brightest.

? October

Cold but quiet. Beautiful golden landscapes.

? November–March

Heart of winter—the lake freezes completely.
Suitable for winter photography and expeditions but requires preparation.

? Permits Required

To visit Pangong Lake, you need:

? Inner Line Permit (ILP)

Required for all Indian tourists (except for J&K residents).

? Protected Area Permit (PAP)

Required for foreign tourists.

Where to Get It?

  • Leh DC Office

  • Online ILP portal

  • Through travel agents

Permits are checked at Karu, Sakti, Durbuk, and Tangtse checkpoints.

? Accommodation Options at Pangong Lake

You can stay in:

1. Swiss Tents

  • Lake-view tents

  • Comfortable beds

  • Attached bathrooms

  • Bonfire activities

2. Wooden Cottages

  • Warmer than tents

  • Ideal for families

3. Homestays (Merak, Spangmik, Man Villages)

  • Authentic Ladakhi experience

  • Perfect for stargazing

Popular Stay Areas:

  • Spangmik

  • Man

  • Merak

? What to Pack for the Journey

Even in summer, Pangong can be cold. Essentials include:

  • Heavy/warm jackets

  • Gloves & thermals

  • Sunglasses & sunscreen

  • Hat/cap

  • Water bottle

  • Snacks

  • Power bank

  • Basic medicines

  • Identity proof & permits

In winter, pack additional thermal layers.

? Food Options on the Route

You will find food at:

  • Karu

  • Sakti

  • Durbuk

  • Tangtse

Popular food items:

  • Maggi

  • Thukpa

  • Momos

  • Butter tea

  • Parathas

  • Kashmiri kehwa

Food options near Pangong are basic but fresh.

? Tips for a Smooth Trip to Pangong

? Acclimatize in Leh for 24–48 hours

Prevents AMS due to high altitude.

? Start early morning

Roads become slippery after noon due to snow melt.

? Carry cash

ATMs are only in Leh.

? Keep fuel filled

No fuel pumps near Pangong.

? Do not enter or touch lake water

Protects ecology and avoids cold-related risks.

? No photography in army areas

Respect the rules.

? Why Pangong Lake Is a Must-Visit

  • Color-changing waters

  • Clear reflections of Himalayas

  • Perfect for sunrise & sunset

  • Camping under a million stars

  • Bollywood-famous locations

  • Peaceful lakeside villages

  • One of the world’s highest saltwater lakes

Pangong Lake is a magical sight that stays with you long after the trip ends.

? Final Thoughts

The journey from Leh to Pangong Lake is not merely a road trip—it’s an experience of vast landscapes, snow-capped mountains, deep valleys, spirituality, and awe-inspiring beauty. Whether you choose the Chang La route, the Chumathang hot springs route, or the fast Shyok route, each path tells a different story.

With proper planning, acclimatization, and travel essentials, your Pangong trip will become one of the most memorable parts of your Ladakh journey.