Pangong Tso, one of the largest brackish-water lakes in Asia, is also considered as the largest lake in Ladakh. Situated at an altitude of 4,500 meters, Pangong is 40 miles in length and nearly 2-4 miles in width. The name Pangong suggests extensive concavity. One third of the lake is in India while the remaining two thirds is in Tibet. Most of the streams feeding the lake are on the Tibetan side.
The changing hues of the lake reflecting different shades of blue, is the most striking feature about Pangong Tso. Sometimes the water sparkles in varying shades of blue, green, purple, and violet, and is transparent to a considerable depth. The villages, pastures and the landscape en route to this lake are very attractive. The water in the lake is salty and the basin is rich in minerals deposited every year by the melting snows from the mountains.
Rare black necked cranes and other migratory birds are seen here.
Pangong Tso can be accessed via Leh. Leh is connected by regular flights from Delhi. Taxis can be hired from Leh to the Pangong Lake.Travel agencies also arrange trips to this fascinating location.
