Pangong Tso, also referred to as Pangong Lake, is an endorheic lake in the Himalayas situated at a height of about 4,350 meters (14,270 ft). It is 134 km long and extends from India to China. Approximately 60% of the length of the lake lies in the Tibetan Autonomous Region of China. The lake is renowned for its blue waters and is a popular tourist attraction in the region.
The history of tourism at Pangong Tso is relatively recent. Until the late 20th century, the area was not a major tourist destination due to its remote location and the challenging terrain that surrounds it. It was primarily inhabited by nomadic herdsmen who traveled around the Changthang Plateau.
Things began to change in the 1990s as the global interest in adventure travel grew. This led to an increased number of visitors to Ladakh and its natural wonders. Pangong Tso became popular among travelers looking for pristine natural beauty and unique high-altitude landscapes. The release of the Bollywood film "3 Idiots" in 2009, which featured the lake, significantly boosted its popularity, attracting tourists not just from India but from around the world.
In recent years, sustainable tourism has become a significant focus in the area. Efforts are being made to ensure that tourism development does not harm the lake's fragile ecosystem. The local government has implemented policies to regulate the number and types of activities that occur around the lake in order to minimize environmental impact.
The rise of social media has also played a significant role in the latest tourism trends at Pangong Tso. Instagram-worthy spots around the lake are sought after by travelers. This has encouraged the growth of local businesses, such as tented camps, homestays, and eateries catering to tourists seeking the perfect photo opportunity.
Another trend is the growing interest in astronomy and stargazing. Due to its high altitude and clear skies, Pangong Tso offers an excellent opportunity for astronomers and amateur stargazers to observe the night sky, leading to a wave of astronomy-themed tours.
Visitors are usually advised to acclimatize to the high altitude before making the trip to Pangong Lake to prevent altitude sickness. Permits are required for tourists, which can be obtained in Leh. The best time to visit is during the summer months of May to September when the weather conditions are more favorable for travel.
While there, tourists can enjoy the serene beauty of the lake, birdwatching, and the unique culture of the local Changpa people. The Pangong Lake Viewpoint provides travelers with a panoramic view of the lake’s vastness and its changing colors.
