Ladakh is a renowned tourist destination in India that offers an adventure experience to visitors. The surrounding snow-clad mountains will offer you a pleasant view throughout your journey in Ladakh. You can witness the change in the weather conditions dramatically as time passes along with the change in surrounding landscapes.
You can also witness a number of bike riders and cyclists throughout your trip who visit Ladakh to gain a thrilling adventure while crossing rough terrains.
It is amusing to see the change in regions after crossing a small distance that will offer you the scenery of lakes, alpine meadows, cold deserts, snow, and mountains. Ladakh has some of the renowned passes and lakes that will offer you jaw-dropping views.
Here are the names of the top 10 beautiful lakes of Ladakh that will offer you panoramic vistas. You must include visiting these places in your Ladakh itinerary.
Here is the list of 10 Most Beautiful Lakes in Ladakh:
- Tso Moriri
- Pangong Tso
- Nyak Tso
- Tso Kar
- Mirpal Tso
- Yarab Tso
- Kyagar Tso
- Stat Tso and Lang Tso
- Kyun Tso & Ryul Tso
- Chagar Tso
Table of Contents
Most Beautiful Lakes in Ladakh
Tso Moriri
Tso Moriri, also called Mountain Lake, is a beautiful saltwater lake that is located in Rupshu Valley that offers breathtaking scenery to visitors. Tso Moriri Lake is situated at an elevation of 4000 meters above sea level and is surrounded by lofty mountains, which is why this lake has been named a “mountain lake”.
The lake is around 8 km wide and 29 km long where you can spot a number of animals and migratory birds. However, during the winter season, this lake freezes and the extremely harsh weather conditions prevent accommodation around the lake.
This lake is one of the most calm, sacred, and beautiful high-altitude lakes in India that is also considered sacred by the locals.
Tso Moriri Travel Tips
The best time to visit Tso Moriri Lake is between the months of May and August which is the peak season and the weather remains dry and pleasant with less humidity making it comfortable for the visitors to explore the place.
Tso Moriri Facts
The nearest airport to Tso Moriri Lake is Kushok Bakula Rinpoche Airport, which is located at a distance of 223 km and takes around 5 hours and 3 minutes to reach the destination.
Highlights
- You can enjoy camping near the lake which offers a delightful experience, especially during the nights by the campfire.
- You can spot a number of migratory birds in this lake which is a treat for the bird watchers.
- You can also rarely spot Tibetan wolves near the lake.
Also Read: Tourist Places to Visit in Ladakh
Pangong Tso
Pangong Tso is another popular tourist destination that you must include in your itinerary on your trip to Ladakh, which is also the world’s highest saltwater lake.
The lake is situated at an elevation of 4350 meters above sea level and is spread over an area of 693.3 square kilometers.
The name “Pangong Tso ” means high grassland lake and you can spend hours enjoying the stunning views of the lake and its surroundings. This lake lies in close proximity to the Line of Control (LOC) and has been claimed by India.
Pangong Tso Travel Tips
The best time to visit Pangong Tso is during the summer season which prevails from the months of May to September, when you will get a soothing climate that will allow you to enjoy your visit to the lake.
However, it is recommended to avoid visiting this lake during the winter, due to the harsh climate. You are also advised to carry medical supplies, as the nearest village to the lake is situated at a distance of approximately 50 km.
Pangong Tso Facts
The nearest airport to Pangong Tso is Kushok Bakula Rinpoche Airport which is located at a distance of 225 km from the airport and takes around 5 hours and 14 minutes via taxi.
Highlights
- A part of the “3 Idiots” movie has been filmed in this lake due to the surreal beauty of the location.
- The color of the lake water changes with the change in sun’s position offering a mesmerizing experience to the visitors.
- During the winter season, the water of the lake freezes due to its positioning at such a high altitude.
Also Read: Most Affordable Tourist Places in the World
Nyak Tso
Nyak Tso is a small lake that falls within the Indian borders but is located in Tibet. Visiting Nyak Tso is complicated as it is present on the border area of India and China, however, the lake offers beautiful views to the visitors.
The lake is situated amidst the mountains that makes it look like an oasis that offers photographic pictures to visitors.
Nyak Tso Travel Tips
Nyak Tso Make sure to seek prior permission to visit the regions as it is in the LOC.
Nyak Tso Facts
Nyak Tso is situated at a distance of approximately 120 km, which you can cover via car or bike.
Highlights
- Present in Tibet, for which visiting without a permit is not possible.
- Being a sensitive area, flying drones and photography may be restricted.
Also Read: Things to do in Kashmir
Tso Kar
Tso Kar is a high-altitude lake that is located in the Rupshu Valley in the southern part of Ladakh at an elevation of 4500 meters above sea level. Travelers who seek peace and calmness are bound to travel to his destination as it offers a solitary place to spend their time in isolation. In the past few years, this place has gained popularity and offers a serene experience to visitors that offers both freshwater and saline water, as the name itself refers to white salt efflorescence. You can enjoy the serenity of the environment surrounding the lake by camping at night.
Tso Kar Travel Tips
The best time to visit Tso Kar is during the time of Losar festival, which occurs during the month of December or January, which marks the beginning of a new year. A number of different rituals are being performed in this festival that attracts visitors from different parts of the country.
Tso Kar Facts
The nearest airport to Tso Kar is Kushok Bakula Rinpoche Airport, which is situated at a distance of 155 km and will take around 3 hours and 24 minutes to reach the destination via car.
Highlights
- Gala festival occurs in this lake where you can learn about the local culture and food of the region.
- It is an ideal place for stargazing by camping at night to witness the amazing view of the starry sky all night.
- The local glacial water is considered to be the primary water source for the lake.
Mirpal Tso
Mirpal Tso is another popular lake of Ladakh that is a must-visit location during your trip to Ladakh, as you will be able to witness the crystal clear water. This freshwater lake is located between Tso Moriri and Pangong Lake, which is a beautiful place to admire the landscape and natural beauty surrounding it.
The sand shore makes the lake look unique from the other lakes present in Ladakh. The crystal clear water helps in reflecting the blue sky above, offering a blue shade in the water of the lake. The untouched charm of the lake helps in enhancing the natural beauty of the surrounding area.
Mirpal Tso Travel Tips
The best time to visit Mirpal Tso is during the summer season which prevails during the months of June to September, when you will get warm weather with less humidity. The pleasant climate then will allow you to spend your leisure time on the lake.
Mirpal Tso Facts
The closest airport to Mirpal Tso is Kushok Bakula Rinpoche Airport that is situated at a distance of 208 km and will take about 4 hours and 39 minutes to reach the destination.
Highlights
- The lake is situated at an elevation of 4913 meters above sea level.
- The oxygen level is 52%, which is comparatively lower in Mirpal Tso than in other regions in Ladakh.
- During the winter season, the temperature of the lake drops drastically and at times it drops below the freezing point
Also Read: Best Places to Visit in Srinagar
Yarab Tso
Yarab Tso, also known as Luvan Tso, is yet another magnificent lake that is surrounded by mountains, however, it is a less-known destination to tourists. The lake, despite being smaller as compared to the other lakes in Ladakh, offers a pleasant scenic escape to travelers.
The spring water also tastes good as compared to the river water, which has attracted the locals. The lake being holy, washing, bathing, and swimming have been strictly prohibited in this lake. You can sit by the lake and enjoy the fresh air and the surrounding view of the lake.
Yarab Tso Travel Tips
It is best to visit Yarab Tso during the summer season, which is between the months of May to October, when the weather stays warm and you can stay by the lake for a longer time period.
Yarab Tso Facts
The nearest airport to Yarab Tso is Kushok Bakula Rinpoche Airport that is located at a distance of 137 km and takes around 3 hours and 53 minutes to reach the lake via car.
Highlights
- The nearest village to Yarab Tso is Panamik village, which is at a walking distance from the lake.
- This lake is considered to be holy by the locals as it is believed that the Dalai lama has visited this lake.
- The water source for this lake is the underground spring that helps in replenishing the water from time to time.
Kyagar Tso
Kyagar Tso is a beautiful lake that is situated at an elevation of around 4000 meters above sea level. It is easy to spot the area as you will find a grazing herd of sheep nearby the lake. The lake at times seems like an oasis in a desert due to its saline water, surrounding landscape, and mountains guarding the lake. Many tourists are seen to visit this lake during the winter season to face the extreme frigid conditions to gain a thrill.
Kyagar Tso Travel Tips
Kyagar Tso Lake is best to visit during the summer season when you get a pleasant climate with less humid surroundings. The months of September and October are suitable for visiting this lake to get pleasant weather that will help you enjoy your trip to the lake.
Kyagar Tso Facts
Kushok Bakula Rinpoche Airport is the nearest airport to Kyagar Tso Lake which is located at a distance of 194 km from the airport and takes approximately 3 hours and 58 minutes to reach the lake.
Highlights
- The lake is a high-altitude saltwater lake of Ladakh and offers shelter to a number of different migratory birds.
- It is important to acclimatize in Leh before traveling to the lake, as the lake is situated at a high altitude.
- If you are planning to spend the night by the lake, then it is recommended to carry warm clothes as the temperature drops significantly during the night.
Also Read: Best Places to Visit in Srinagar
Stat Tso and Lang Tso
The twin lakes of Stat Tso and Lang Tso are located around Pensi La Pass which connects Zuru Valley and Zanskar Valley. This spectacularly beautiful lake attracts tourists with its panoramic vistas.
The clear lakes let you see the reflection of the snow-capped mountains located in the background of the lake. The surrounding environment around the lake will offer you a tranquil and mesmerizing experience. The lake gets its water sourced from the glacial meltwaters from the surrounding glaciers.
Stat Tso and Lang Tso Travel Tips
It is best to visit Stat Tso and Lang Tso during the months of July to September when you get pleasurable climatic conditions that will allow you to spend your time by the lake in tranquility.
Stat Tso and Lang Tso Facts
The nearest airport to Stat Tso and Lang Tso is Kushok Bakula Rinpoche Airport which is located at a distance of 174 km and it takes about 3 hours and 36 minutes to reach the twin lakes. However, you will require permission to visit this lake, as it is in close proximity to the LOC.
Highlights
- During the winter months, you will find that the lake gets frozen, while during summer you get to see a clear lake.
- You can also camp by the river and spend your leisure time amidst peace and harmony.
- You can enjoy the Hemis festival that takes place around the months of June or July.
Kyun Tso & Ryul Tso
Kyun Tso & Ryul Tso are twin pristine lakes that offer the tourists scenic views of both sunrise and sunset. These lakes are not included in most of the packages of Ladakh, however, you must include these destinations in your itinerary to witness the panorama of sunrise and sunset.
People visit this place less due to the poor road condition and also the area is restricted due to its close proximity to the Indo-Chinese border. The lake is positioned at an elevation of 5000 meters above sea level which requires one to overcome the rough terrain.
The turquoise water and clear sky will give you gain a pleasant experience and a soothing break from the bustling chores of your city.
Kyun Tso & Ryul Tso Travel Tips
You can visit Kyun Tso & Ryul Tso during any time of the year, however, it is suggested that you visit the twin lakes between the months of June and September to get a pleasant weather condition that will help you attain a comfortable experience.
Kyun Tso & Ryul Tso Facts
Kyun Tso & Ryul Tso is situated at a distance of 219 km from the nearest airport, which is Kushok Bakula Rinpoche Airport, and will take about 4 hours and 50 minutes from the airport to reach the lake.
Highlights
- The sunrise and sunset from this lake will offer you a mesmerizing experience.
- You will have a rough experience while on your way to the Twin Lake.
- You can camp near the lake as well as enjoy stargazing at night.
Chagar Tso
Chagar Tso is another lesser-known lake that is one of the most undisturbed lakes of Ladakh which you can spot on our way to Pangong Lake. The lake sources its water from glaciers which shimmer like stars when sunrays strike the lake. The majestic scenery of the lake will make your leisure time in a pleasurable manner.
The lake is situated at an elevation of 13756 feet above sea level and that makes it a serene location with a glorious appearance. Spending some time in this lake will help you feel relaxed and will make you refreshed from continuous journeys.
This lake is situated within rugged terrains and surrounded by snow-clad mountains making it an offbeat location that is yet to be explored. The lake is situated at an elevation of 4323 meters above sea level from where one can witness panoramic vistas.
Chagar Tso Travel Tips
The best time to visit Chagar Tso is during the months of May to September, when you will get pleasant and mild weather that will allow you to explore the surrounding places around the lake in a comfortable manner as well as spend more time near the lake.
Chagar Tso Facts
The nearest airport to Chagar Tso is Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport, which is situated at a distance of 138 km and will take about 3 hours and 19 minutes to reach the destination.
Highlights
- You can camp near this lake and enjoy the ambiance of the surrounding environment and also captivate the lake charm as time passes over the day.
- This lake is considered as a hidden gem as it is less visited by visitors and one can experience its tranquility.
- The oxygen level is low at the lake due to its high elevation.
Also Read: Best Places to Visit in Kashmir
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the famous lake near Ladakh?
The famous lake of Ladakh is the Pangong Lake which offers stunning views to visitors. Moreover, a scene from the movie 3 Idiots has also been filmed in this lake due to its scenic panorama
Which lake in Ladakh is color-changing
The lake in Ladakh that is known for its color changing is Pangong Lake which changes its color based on the position of the sun and you can find red, blue, and green colors at the lake.
Which is the clearest lake in Ladakh?
The clearest lake in Ladakh is Mirpal Tso, which has crystal clear water that even reflects the blue sky
What is Ladakh famous for?
Ladakh is a renowned tourist destination in India that is known for offering thrilling experiences on rough terrains, scenic landscapes, spiritual knowledge, cultural heritage, and many more.
Can we swim in Ladakh Lake?
You can swim in Ladakh Lake, however, it is not recommended to swim in the lake as the lakes are saltwater bodies.
Which is the most beautiful river in Ladakh?
Sangam Point is the most beautiful river in Ladakh as it is the confluence point of river Zanskar and Indus
Is Ladakh costly?
A trip to Ladakh can be costly as there are a number of activities and places to be covered in your trip. However, you can also plan for a budget trip to Ladakh by changing your itinerary accordingly.
Can we drink in Leh?
It is strictly recommended to avoid drinking in the first two days of visiting, as your body needs to acclimatize.