Pangong Tso (Tso means “lake” in Ladakhi) is a breathtaking high-altitude lake located in the Union Territory of Ladakh, at an elevation of about 4,350 meters (14,270 feet). Stretching over 134 kilometers, it extends from India into Tibet (China), with about one-third of the lake lying in India.

 

Known for its crystal-clear, blue waters that change color throughout the day—ranging from deep blue to turquoise and even green—Pangong Tso is a visual masterpiece set against a backdrop of barren mountains and stark beauty. The lake gained immense popularity after being featured in the Bollywood film 3 Idiots.

 

Due to its altitude and remoteness, the area is quite cold, especially at night, and facilities are basic—but the mesmerizing beauty and surreal silence make it a once-in-a-lifetime experience for travelers and photographers alike. Visitors need an Inner Line Permit to access the lake, and camping by the lakeside is a popular activity.