Pangong Lake

Paradise, peace, silence, and tranquillity all in one location? Pangong lake is the place for you! A pristine region in Ladakh distinguished by subtle to high peaks all around, crystal blue waters, and the great expanse draws the eye so much, as if magic is happening right before the eyes.

Pangong Lake, commonly known as Pangong Tso, sits serenely at an elevation of 14,270 feet. The lake is 12 kilometres long and is between the borders of India and China. Rather, 60% of the portion is in the next country, which delights every traveller to be here.

The dreamlike pure blue waters are actually brackish or salty in nature, and no aquatic life can thrive in them. Furthermore, the temperature range of -30 to -10 degrees Celsius causes even this salty lake to freeze with massive ice sheets, which is quite the reverse in the case of salt-laden water bodies.

Every year, the arrival of migrating birds adds to the attractiveness of this stunning landscape spot, attracting many visitors in search of adventure, photography, bird-watching, and a chilling experience. Pangong has another distinct and endearing characteristic: it can change its colour from blue to green to even grey at times. Every year during the winters in Ladakh, the brackish water of Pangong draws migrating birds.

Pangong Lake and its Bollywood connections 

A Bollywood fan would never miss the most interesting location in a film. And if you've seen movies like 3 Idiots, Sanam Re, Dil Se, Jab Tak Hai Jaan, Waqt, Tashan, and Heroes, you won't have missed Pangong Lake as a backdrop.

Jaws drop as artists dance, drive their vehicles, spend precious time in the chilly space, and all hearts race to reach Pangong Lake. Any Bollywood fan will feel as if they had entered another world. Kareena's Scooty has also earned popularity among Bollywood moviegoers.

The Lake in Winter

Water with minor ripples can be seen from May to September, and when the sun shines on it, it truly glitters. When winter hits, the temperature in Ladakh drops quickly, reaching extremes of -15 to -30 degrees Celsius at times. This causes the lake to freeze like a thick hard sheet, becoming white from its turquoise-green appearance. During the months of mid-January to mid-February, the lake transforms into an ideal backdrop for cricket or chit-chat while wandering over its surface. Yeah, it is similar to another 'chadar' that is usually known for its freezing Zanskar river trip.

In the months of May to September, the scenery of Pangong is breathtaking. Winters become hard during the remaining months, with a thick coat of frozen sheet. Even in the winter, lovers of natural beauty come the area to wander around the lake and carry out their fantasies.