The beauty of Pangong Lake, one of Ladakh’s most visually appealing destinations, is beyond words. A 130-kilometre-long lake extending into China with a breathtaking view, the difficult but beautiful journey is rewarded with an unforgettable view of the lake’s changing colours. Puga Valley is known for its natural and scenic beauty with calm lakes and hot springs. Another amazing place near Leh is Hanle, which is the highest space observatory.
Many tents and cottages have sprouted up in this area to accommodate tourists. This lake is hidden in the laps of snow-capped mountains and high-altitude plateaus, and it contrasts the barrenness of the expanse with its deep emerald presence.
The infamous blue waters of Pangong Lake are a sight to behold! It is the highest saltwater lake in the world, at an altitude of 4,350m above sea level. The lake tends to change colours to red and green depending on the time you visit it. A visit to this place will also give you a chance to interact with the localities. Their extensive knowledge and experience in the place are very fascinating, and cannot be described in better words.
This trip would also include a visit to the hot springs of Chumathang and the astronomical centre at Hanle. These places give a complete view of the beauty of Ladakh. The refreshing hot springs of Chumathang will be one of the most relaxing places you would ever visit. And the Hanle Astronomical Centre will provide you with an unforgettable sight of the universe.
Lastly, we would be paying a visit to monasteries and palaces in Puga Valley. Every aspect of this journey will create memories that will surely have a place in everyone’s mind and soul forever after.
Reach Leh by 7 pm, collect the bikes and get ready to leave early in the morning.
Arrive at Leh in the morning. Breakfast at Leh cafe. Drive to Pangong Lake through Chang-La pass and Tangtse. Day outing at Pangong Lake. Overnight stay at Pangong Lake.
Starting early in the morning towards Hanle. Stop at Chumathang Hot Spring. Snacks and refreshments at the hot springs. Continue the journey towards Hanle. Visit Astronomical Centre in Hanle at night. Overnight stay at Hanle.
Visiting the Hanle village. Followed by a visit to refreshing Loma Lake. Trip to Hanle Monastery for an aerial view of the entire village.
Road trip to Unling La, the world’s highest motorable road.
Long road trip to Ladakh via Upshi village. Visiting Alchi Monastery in Upshi. Return to Ladakh before sunset.
Pangong Lake is situated at 13,862 feet above sea level. The temperatures ideally range between -3-10 °C (26-52 °F). You should carry woollen clothes and sweaters with you throughout your time in Pangong Lake. The hilly terrain can also be a challenge for experienced riders. Make sure you are fully equipped with your riding gear (helmets, gloves and other equipment). Also make sure to have a toolkit handy capable of managing tiring inflations and deflations, which can be caused by the changing atmospheric pressures. Make sure you keep a first-aid kit handy with an oxygen cylinder.
Comfortable and heated accommodations will ensure you and your friends spend the best nights in Pangong Lake. Since hotels are not allowed around Pangong lake, we have chosen the best tent camps and homestays to ensure a comfortable stay.
The transportation for the majority of our part will be done using buses, owing to the high altitudes. We will be opting for flights and helicopters wherever it is possible and feasible. We will ensure that your rides are comfortable and safe.
To ensure your healthy well-being at such high altitudes, we are limiting our meals to only nutritious meals. Maggi and hot soups will be common items during our stay. It is recommended that you carry some dry fruits and snacks if you have an appetite for more.
It is mandatory for everyone on the trip to have the Government of India issue certificates of the first dose, a second dose and a booster dose of COVID-19 vaccinations supplied by any well-known and reputed company.
The high altitudes may cause acute mountain sickness. They are common and mild, but some cases can be life-threatening. Symptoms include nausea, headache, shortness of breath and inability to exercise. Severe cases might require oxygen, and medications and move to lower altitudes.