Pangong Lake, Ladakh

Pangong Lake, Ladakh


Pangong Lake, Ladakh

  With its location between India and Tibet, Pangong Lake is an enchanting saltwater lake located in the Himalayas in Ladakh. The lake can be reached via a 4-5 hours' drive from Leh via the scenic Changla Pass. Pangong Tso is known for its hypnotizing blue waters and flocks of migratory birds that can be seen here.

Looking at pristine Pangong Lake,also known as Pangone Tso, you could be forgiven for thinkings it's anywhere but India. At a literally breathtaking elevation of 14,270 feet (4350 meters) above sea level, the lake presents a surreal spectacle.

Notably, Pangong Lake is one of the world's highest saltwater lakes. ( It's frequently said to be the highest but the elevation of Nam Lake, Nam Tso, in Tibet is actually 400 hundred meters more ). The lake is also unusual because it's completely landlocked and unable to drain anywhere, unlike other water bodies that flow into a river or ocean.


Pangong Lake, Ladakh

Apparently, glacial erosion created the lake's basin, and it was initially a freshwater lake. It turned brackish over time due to the formation of mineral deposits, which killed off its aquatic life. No one really knows exactly how deep Pangong Lake is, although it's estimated to be around 300 feet. Even though the lake is salty, it freezes in winter. As the weather warms up, melting snow from the surrounding peaks replenishes its water supply.

Naturally, Pangong Lake has been of great interest to geologists. However, it only really Rose to fame after featuring in popular Bollywood movie " The 3 Idiots," starring Amir Khan, in 2009. Now, it draws an average of 1,000 tourists a day.

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