Pangong

Pangong Tso, commonly called Pangong Lake, is a high-altitude endorheic lake in the Himalayas that straddles the border between India and the People's Republic of China. Its Tibetan name Tso Pangong is often translated as “long lake.” The Indian portion lies in Ladakh’s Leh district, while the rest lies in the Tibet Autonomous Region.

Geography and hydrology

The lake sits at approximately 4,350 meters above sea level. It extends roughly north to south for about 134 kilometers, with a width that varies from a few to several kilometers, and covers an area of about 600 square kilometers. Pangong Tso has no outlet; it is fed by mountain streams and snowmelt, and its waters are brackish to saline in places. The color of the lake ranges from light blue to deep indigo, changing with the depth, sunlight, and mineral content.

Ecology and environment

Pangong Tso lies within a cold desert ecosystem on the high Tian Shan–Ladakh plateau. The shores feature sparse vegetation and rugged terrain. The lake hosts migratory birds in certain seasons, and the surrounding landscape supports a limited palette of flora and fauna adapted to the extreme climate and high altitude.

History and cultural significance

The name Pangong Tso reflects local linguistic roots, with “tso” meaning lake in Tibetan. The area is known for its dramatic, barren beauty and has become a prominent cultural and tourist site in Ladakh.

Tourism and access

Pangong Tso is a major tourist destination renowned for its scenic vistas and the striking color changes of the water. It is reached via high-altitude roads from Leh, and its views and backdrop have made it a popular filming location, notably featured in popular cinema. Access is subject to weather, season, and regional regulations.