Traveling to distant places leaves you speechless but in the end, you become a storyteller and each and every story must be told. Traveling means different things to different people. For some its a way of relaxing by taking a break from our day to day lives and for others, it’s all about adventure, thrill, and that much-needed adrenaline rush. Whether you relate to the relaxing part or to the adventure part, Ladakh is an amusing land where tranquility, beauty, and fun will embrace you as soon as you reach. When you have already explored its monasteries and adventure spots, you must head to the serene lakes. To help you witness the best Ladakh lakes, here is a detailed guide which you must read before you leave to explore the mystical side of the land of the last Shangri La!
Best Time To Visit Ladakh
Image Credit: Narender9 for Wikimedia Commons
The enchanting region of Ladakh attracts a lot of travelers every year by its beauty and charm. If you are wondering when to visit this gorgeous region and witness all that it has to offer then you should plan your trip from mid-September to mid-October. During these months the weather is pleasant and you can easily explore the serene lakes and more. If you are planning a trip which is full of adventure then March is considered the best month.
9 Impeccable Ladakh Lakes
Planning a vacation in Ladakh? Check out the list of the most beautiful lakes in Ladakh that you should definitely explore with your travel buddy on your vacation. Keep scrolling down and read along!
- Pangong Tso Lake: Witness The Picturesque Surroundings
- Tso Kar Lake: The Twin Lake
- Tso Moriri: The Mountain Lake
- Yarab Tso Lake: The Trekking Spot
- Chagar Tso: Perfect For All Bird Lovers
- Mirpal Tso: The Serene Lake
- Stat Tso And Lang Tso: For An Instaworthy Photoshoot
- Kiagar Tso: The Surreal Marvel
- Kyun Tso & Ryul Tso: Savour Sunsets & Meditate
1. Pangong Tso Lake: Witness The Picturesque Surroundings
The word Pangong is derived from a Tibetan word which means a long and narrow enchanted lake. Completely true its name, Pangong lake in Ladakh will leave you enchanted by its beauty and charm. This lake is worldwide famous and a lot of travelers from all around the world come here to relax and soak in the picturesque view. It is a saline lake still it freezes in winters. You can find many water birds here.
This lake is the main place where the migratory birds breed like Rare black-necked cranes, Brahmani Ducks, and Seagulls. Pangong Tso Lake hypnotizes everyone as it changes colors throughout the day. From the hues fo blue to green, you can witness this mystical lake changing colors and looking more fascinating than ever. With the backdrop of mountains, this lake is no less than a paradise and so it is known the Turquoise blue paradise lake.
Location: Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir
Best Time To Visit: June to September
Must Read: 40 Best Things To Do In Ladakh That You Can’t Afford To Miss!
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2. Tso Kar Lake: The Twin Lake
An amalgamation of fresh water and salt water, Tso Kar lake is known as the twin lake and is located in the south of Ladakh. A shimmering blue lake with stunning mountains at the backdrop, Tso Kar lake is counted among one of the most famous lakes in Ladakh as it attracts many tourists every year due to its clear blue water which is surrounded by snow-clad mountains. All the birdwatching lovers can spot many species of the birds like Brahmin ducks, bar-headed geese, crested grebe, and the black-necked cranes. Take out your binoculars and do visit this lake.
Location: Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir
Best Time To Visit: May to September
Suggested Read: Visit These 19 Monasteries In Ladakh For A Purifying Experience
3. Tso Moriri: The Mountain Lake
Tso Moriri is the largest high altitude lake and is also called the Mountain Lake. Lush green forests, emerald color water, and majestic mountains await you at the Tso Moriri lake. Being one of the most isolated of the Ladakh lakes, Tso Moriri is mostly visited by the people who like to explore places that are less crowded and have an impeccable view. There is also a Buddhist monastery located nearby the lake which you must visit to attain peace and calm. You can spot the famous migratory birds like Brahmin ducks and black-necked cranes here.
Location: Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir
Best Time To Visit: May to September
Suggested Read: Trip To Ladakh: When In Ladakh, Always Expect The Unexpected!
4. Yarab Tso Lake: The Trekking Spot
Ladakh’s ravishing secret and a great spot for all trekkers, Yarab Tso lake is located in the Nubra Valley. This lake can only be reached by those who love to trek along the mountains and capture the amazing view. Once you visit this lake you will be left in awe and you will never want to come back as its the most beautiful creation of nature. You can also explore nearby villages like Panamik village and the Distil village. Don’t forget to visit the hot spring located nearby this marvelous spot which is also the most popular one among the lakes in Ladakh for trekking.
Location: Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir
Best Time To Visit: July to September
Suggested Read: 11 Experiences That Make Ladakh In May A Heartwarming Trip
Planning your holiday but confused about where to go? These travel stories help you find your best trip ever!
5. Chagar Tso: Perfect For All Bird Lovers
This one is for all the wanderlust souls and bird lovers. Located on the route if the Pangong lake, Chagar Tso is for those who would love to spend some time at a quiet yet surreal place. Surrounded by mountains and trees, this spot is ideal for spending time with your lover and appreciating the glorious creation of mother Earth.
Location: Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir
Best Time To Visit: July to October
Suggested Read: 7 Valleys In Ladakh That Prove It Is Indeed A Paradise On Earth!
6. Mirpal Tso: The Serene Lake
Ladakh has beautiful lakes and they lure a lot of travelers but there are some lakes that are not known to many. Mirpal Tso is one of these uncrowded Ladakh lakes that should be visited by all souls who are looking for solace. The pleasant view of the crystal clear water and the riveting surrounding will make you fall in love with this serene lake. Prepare a playlist of soul-soothing songs and head to the Mirpal Tso and relax while listening to the songs while your eyes mesmerized by the view in front of them.
Location: Chushul, Jammu and Kashmir
Best Time To Visit: May to September
Suggested Read: 8 Tourist Circuits Of Ladakh To Cover The Best
7. Stat Tso And Lang Tso: For An Instaworthy Photoshoot
Image Credit: Yoshif for Pixabay
Disclaimer: The image is for representation purposes only.
Situated above 5000m sea level, Stat Tso and Lang Tso is a prominent twin lake in Ladakh. This enchanting lake is located in the Zanskar region of Ladakh and is perfect for a tranquil escape. If you are passionate about photography then all you need to do is to get ready with your cameras and visit this spectacular lake. This lake is a picture-perfect spot for your next photo shoot or for insta-worthy pictures. You can easily reach this lake by a shared jeep or hire a cab.
Location: Zanskar, Jammu, and Kashmir
Best Time To Visit: May to August
Suggested Read: 8 Temples In Ladakh To Visit For A Spiritual Sojourn
8. Kiagar Tso: The Surreal Marvel
Image Credit: Prabhu B for Wikimedia Commons
Bewitching sunsets await you at Kaigar Tso in Ladakh and when you are done exploring the famous lakes then you must stop by this hidden marvel. Charming yet peaceful, Kiagar Tso will blow your mind away by its beauty and surroundings. A break now and then at a surreal spot is required by all and Kaigar Tso will be an excellent choice for that escapade. You can either take a relaxing walk or play some fun games like volleyball, badminton at one of the best Ladakh lakes.
Location: Ladakh, Jammu, and Kashmir
Best Time To Visit: June to August
Suggested Read: River Rafting In Ladakh: Here’s A Handy Guide To Help You Do It Right
9. Kyun Tso & Ryul Tso: Savour Sunsets & Meditate
Disclaimer: The image is for representation purposes only.
Located near Hanle and Nyoma, Kyun Tso & Ryol Tso is one of the most admired twin lakes in Ladakh. If the clear blue sky and turquoise water will make you leave your house right away then Kyun Tso & Ryol Tso is a mix of both. Not all visits to a lake should be filled with adventure and fun, sometimes all you need is a soothing break from your tiring week. This twin lake will make for a terrific break for the weary souls and will fill you with new hope and everything good. Savor the sunset and meditate for a while at this lake to make your visit memorable.
Location: Ladakh, Jammu, and Kashmir
Best Time To Visit: May to August
Further Read: Magnetic Hill In Ladakh: A Handy Guide To Unravel This Mystery!
Whether you are looking for a challenging trek or for a popular spot which is popular in the movies, these lakes in Ladakh won’t disappoint you for sure. When you have explored all the sides of Ladakh and in the end, you would like to soak in some calm, then you must head to these lakes. You can even spend your night at the camps. Sounds like a plan? What are you waiting for? Get packed, pick this guide and leave right away for your Ladakh vacation!
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Frequently Asked Questions About Ladakh Lakes
Is it necessary to carry AMS medication while exploring the lakes in Ladakh?
Yes, most of the lakes in Ladakh are 10,000-ft above the mean sea level. The people who cannot withstand high-altitude conditions must take AMS medication with them.
Which are all the lakes in Ladakh that allow tourists to camp?
There are a few Ladakh lakes, which allow camping for tourists like Pangong Lake and Tso Kar Lake.
What are all the recreational activities the tourists are allowed to do in the Lakes present in Ladakh, India?
Bird watching, camping, hiking, lakeside biking, lakeside walking, photography, trekking, and walking on frozen lakes are allowed as recreational activities to do in the Lakes present in Ladakh, India.
Are there glacial lakes in Ladakh?
Yes, most of the high-altitude lakes in Ladakh are glacial lakes. Pangong Tso Lake in Ladakh is popular among tourists to visit in all-seasons. This lake is found frozen during the winter season.
Is it possible to swim in the lakes present in Ladakh?
No, most of the lakes are with saltwater. They are deep and in frozen conditions too. It is not advisable to swim in any of the lakes present in Ladakh.
Which are all the lakes in Ladakh, where night camping is permitted for tourists?
You must visit Pangong Lake in Ladakh for night camping.
Is self-camping near the lakes are allowed in Ladakh?
Yes, most of the tourists, who wish for night sky gazing usually do self-camping at their risk near Ladakh lakes.
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