How to reach Pangong Lake Ladakh from Manali: A Comprehensive Guide

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If you enjoy exploring the outdoors and immersing yourself in nature, then visiting Pangong Lake in Ladakh should definitely be on your list of must-see destinations. This breathtakingly beautiful lake is situated at an elevation of 4,350 meters above sea level and is known for being one of the highest saltwater lakes in the world.

Getting to Pangong Lake from Manali is possible through a variety of routes and modes of transportation, the shortest route is via ‘Manali to Keylong to Mahe to Pangong Lake’ and via this route distance between Manali to Pangong is 467 Kilometers.  But to help make your journey as easy and stress-free as possible, we have compiled a comprehensive guide to assist you in planning your trip. Whether you’re an experienced adventurer or a first-time traveler, our guide can help you make the most out of your visit to this stunning destination. You can overview the different routes to reach Pangong Lake from Manali on the following table.

Route 1: Manali to Keylong to Mahe to Pangong Lake

Manali>Keylong>Pang-Debering Intersection Point, Keylong-Leh Rd, 194201>Mahe>Chushul, 194201>Merak, Pangong 194201.

The route to reach Pangong Lake from Manali via Mahe. This route is approximately 467 km long and takes around 14 hours to cover. But it is not recommended to drive continuously without any breaks. Because of High altitude and low oxygen concentration in the air. So I would advise you to drive slowly and take frequent breaks during your journey to reach Pangong Lake from Manali. 

Before you start your journey from Manali to Pangong check the weather and road conditions. You are going to drive in a hilly area and there will always be a chance of bad weather and road blockades due to heavy snowfall snow or landslides. It is always advisable to check the weather forecast. 

Manali to Keylong:

Start from Manali and head north on NH3 towards Atal Tunnel Rohtang. After crossing the tunnel, you will reach Keylong, which is about 70 km away from Manali. The journey should take around 3 hours depending on road conditions.

Keylong to Pang-Debering Intersection Point:

From Keylong, take the Keylong-Leh Road (also known as the Leh-Manali Highway) towards Leh. After driving for about 266 km, you will reach the Pang-Debering Intersection Point. This point marks the intersection of two major roads – the Leh-Manali Highway and the road to Tso Kar Lake.

Pang-Debering Intersection Point to Mahe:

From the intersection point, continue on the Leh-Manali Highway towards Leh. After driving for about 75 km, you will reach the town of Mahe.

Mahe to Chushul:

From Mahe, take the road toward Chushul. This road is about 70 km long and should take around 3-4 hours to drive. Chushul is a small town located near the border with China.

Chushul to Merak, Pangong:

From Chushul, continue driving towards Pangong Lake. After driving for about 26 km, you will reach Merak, a small village on the shores of Pangong Lake.

Route 2: Manali to Karu to Changla to Pangong Lake

Manali>Sarchu>Karu>Chang La Pass>Tangtse Check Post>Pangong

Manali to Sarchu

The first leg of your journey takes you from Manali to Sarchu, covering a distance of approximately 177 km. You’ll need to plan for breaks along the way to avoid altitude sickness and give yourself time to acclimate to the conditions.

Sarchu to Karu

From Sarchu, your journey continues to Karu, covering a distance of approximately 216 km. This part of the route takes you through some of the most stunning landscapes in India, with snow-capped mountains, crystal clear streams, and vast stretches of desert terrain. You’ll need to plan for a stopover in Leh to rest and acclimatize to the high altitude.

Karu to Chang La Pass

The next leg of your journey takes you from Karu to Chang La Pass, covering a distance of approximately 42 km. This part of the route is a steep climb up to Chang La Pass, which sits at an altitude of 5,360 meters above sea level. You’ll need to plan for breaks along the way to rest and acclimate to the altitude.

Chang La Pass to Tangtse Check Post

From Chang La Pass, your journey continues to Tangtse Check Post, covering a distance of approximately 40 km. This part of the route takes you through some of the most breathtaking landscapes in India, with snow-capped mountains, crystal clear streams, and vast stretches of desert terrain.

Tangtse Check Post to Pangong Lake

The final leg of your journey takes you from Tangtse Check Post to Pangong Lake, covering a distance of approximately 35 km. This part of the route is a steep descent down to the lake, which sits at an altitude of 4,350 meters above sea level. You’ll need to plan for breaks along the way to rest and acclimate to the altitude.

Google Map link https://goo.gl/maps/qZn9CnAY84Zw7Nxf6

Route 3: Manali to Leh to  Pangong Lake

Manali>Sarchu>Karu>Leh>Karu>Chang La Pass>Tangtse Check Post>Pangong Lake

Manali to Sarchu

Start early in the morning from Manali and drive to Sarchu, which is approximately 177 km away. The journey will take around 5 hours, as you will have to cross the Atal Tunnel Rohtang and drive through the beautiful valleys of Lahaul and Spiti.

Sarchu to Karu:

From Sarchu, you will drive towards Karu, which is approximately 216 km away. The journey will take around 5-6 hours, as you will have to cross the Baralacha Pass and drive through the beautiful landscapes of Ladakh.

Karu to Leh:

From Karu, it’s a short drive of approximately 34 km to Leh. Take a break in Leh and explore the local market, monasteries, and other tourist attractions.

Leh to Karu:

After spending a day or two in Leh, drive back to Karu.

Karu to Chang La Pass to Tangtse Check Post:

From Karu, drive towards Chang La Pass, which is one of the highest motorable passes in the world. After crossing the pass, continue driving towards Tangtse Check Post, which is approximately 42 km away.

Tangtse Check Post to Pangong Lake:

From Tangtse Check Post, drive towards Pangong Lake, which is approximately 35 km away. The journey will take you through the beautiful landscapes and villages of Ladakh. You can spend a night near the lake and explore its serene beauty.

Google Map Link https://goo.gl/maps/BApfj83ZkPtyZ3mS8

Things to keep in mind

• If you’re planning to drive to Pangong Lake 
• Carry necessary documents like your ID proofs, permits, and licenses
• Carry enough cash as there are limited ATMs in the region
• Make sure your vehicle is in good condition, and you carry enough fuel and spare parts.
• Acclimatize yourself before starting your journey to avoid altitude sickness.
• Carry warm clothes, as the temperature drops drastically at night.
• Carry enough food and water, as there are no restaurants or food stalls on the way to Pangong Lake.

Conclusion

Reaching Pangong Lake from Manali is an adventure in itself. While there are several routes to choose from, make sure you plan your journey well in advance and take all necessary precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. The journey may be challenging, but the breathtaking views of the Himalayas and the serene beauty of Pangong Lake will make it all worth it.

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