Pangong Tso Tibetan for “high grassland lake”, also referred to as Pangong Lake, is an endorheic lake in the Himalayas situated at a height of about 4,350 m (14,270 ft) and is 134 km long, extending from India to China. Do you remember the last scene of 3 idiots? Want to know about the location where Aamir Khan and Kareena Kapoor were snogging in the last scene? If you remember the beautiful lake where the whole scene was shot, that lake is Pangong Tso. The reflection of the barren mountains and a clear blue sky on the placid waters of Pangong Tso Lake is one sight that will remain etched in mind forever! Approximately 60% of the length of the lake lies in China. The lake is 5 km (3.1 mi) wide at its broadest point. All together it covers 604 km2. During winter the lake freezes completely, despite being saline water. It is not a part of Indus river basin area and geographically a separate land locked river basin.
The beauty and allure of this lake has attracted people from all over the country and beyond. The crystal clear blue lake sprawls over an area of 100 kilometers across the borders of two countries in India and China. It is one of the charismatic lakes situated on the Changtang plateau in eastern Ladakh region. The sunset & the sunrise are the best time to witness the sheer beauty of this place. The migratory birds add a special feel to the whole experience. Reaching the lake itself is an experience to remember. n interesting observation of the topography throughout this journey is that they throw off all calculations of distance somewhat like a mirage-effect, what looked to be a ten-minute crossing easily requires an hour or more! The beautiful multi shades of blue color offered by this lake along with a picturesque landscape around gives this place an extremely romantic feel as shown in Bollywood film songs.
Pangong Lake is also known by the name of Hollow Lake and appears as a clear symbol of nature craftsmanship. The brackish water plays with sunlight to produce different effects of light. One-third part of the lake lies in India while the remaining two-third lies in Tibet, a region controlled by China. The name of the lake Pangong was got from a Tibetan word Banggong Co that means a narrow and enchanted lake. The brackish water of the lake has very low micro-vegetation. Guides report that there are no fish or other aquatic life in the lake, except for some small crustaceans. On the other hand, visitors see numerous ducks and gulls over and on the lake surface. There are some species of scrub and perennial herbs that grow in the marshes around the lake. This place is paradise for bird lovers especially with sightings of other birds like rodents that are said to grow up to the size of a dog. During summers, bar-headed geese can also be witnessed here. All this makes the lake a favourite spot for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.
If you are planning to visit Pangong Lake, make sure you do not visit during winters because the whole lake freezes during this season of the year. This spectacular lakeside is open during the tourist season, which lasts from May to September. Whenever you plan to visit this magical place, make sure you do carry a lot of winter clothes. The climate is cold and after dawn it gets harsher. There is only one cemented accommodation available around the lake and the facilities like electricity, medical aid, hot running water, western toilets etc. are rare to find.
How To Reach :
By Air : The nearest Airport is Leh. Which is well connected to all major city if India.
By Rail : The nearest Railhead is Jammu Railway Station (450 km) which is well connect to the all major city of India.
By Road : Pangong Tso can be reached after a a five-hour drive from Leh. From Leh, one passes through the Changla Pass and then through Tangste. There are regular bus services run by state road transport corportation.
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