One of the most common questions I receive from travelers planning their Ladakh trip is, “Can I travel from Pangong Tso to Tso Moriri directly without going back to Leh?” The answer is yes. There are two direct routes connecting these iconic high-altitude lakes, and both run through some of the most remote, beautiful, and challenging terrain in all of Ladakh.
I have driven both these routes over the years, and they remain among my most memorable experiences in Changthang. However, these are not routes for first-timers or the unprepared. In this guide, I will walk you through everything you need to know, including route options, road conditions, distances, permits, fuel planning, and practical tips for making this journey safely in 2026.
Quick Summary: Two direct routes exist from Pangong Tso to Tso Moriri. Route 1 via Tsaga La (290 km, 10-12 hours) is more commonly used with better road conditions after Tsaga La. Route 2 via Kaksang La (330 km, 12-14 hours) is shorter from Chushul to Mahe but far more remote. Both require a full day of driving, carry extra fuel, and travel in a group of 2-3 vehicles minimum. Only Indian nationals are allowed. Pay the Ladakh Environment Fee (Rs 400 + Rs 20/day) online before you start.
Practical Info: Route opens late May, closes by late October. Both routes start from Spangmik on Pangong Lake. No fuel stations, no mobile network, no medical facilities on the direct route. Nearest petrol pumps are Leh and Tangste (34 km before Pangong). Ladakh Environment Fee: Rs 400 + Rs 20/day + Rs 10/day Red Cross, paid online at lahdclehpermit.in. Minimum 2-3 vehicles recommended. SUV or adventure motorcycle preferred. Indian nationals only.
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Let's quickly dive into the details:
What Are the Two Direct Routes from Pangong Tso to Tso Moriri?
There are two direct routes that connect Pangong Tso to Tso Moriri without returning to Leh. Both share the same initial stretch from Spangmik along the southern shore of Pangong Lake through Man, Merak, and Chushul. They diverge at Chushul, with one going via Tsaga La and the other via Kaksang La. Both reconnect at Mahe Bridge before continuing to Tso Moriri.
I have already covered fuel availability and self-drive tips for Ladakh in a separate article. Here, I will focus on practical tips, route comparisons, and everything you need to plan this journey. To understand the full layout of these routes, you can also refer to the DwD Maps of Ladakh and Changthang.
How Does Route 1 via Tsaga La Work?
Route 1 is the more commonly used direct route and runs along the southern shore of Pangong Lake before heading inland through the Changthang plateau. Here is the full waypoint sequence with approximate distances.
Route 1: Spangmik to Korzok via Tsaga La (290 km, 10-12 hours)
Pangong Tso (Spangmik) → Man → Merak → Chushul → Tsaga La → Loma → Nyoma → Mahe → Sumdo → Kiagar Tso → Tso Moriri (Korzok)
This route runs along the shoreline of Pangong Lake for the first 40-50 km, which is genuinely one of the most scenic stretches in all of Ladakh. The lake changes color from deep blue to turquoise as you drive alongside it. After Merak, you head towards Chushul village (14,268 ft) and then climb to Tsaga La Pass at approximately 15,289 ft (4,660 m).
The road conditions between Spangmik and Tsaga La are a mix of dirt tracks and gravel. Some sections between Man and Tsaga La are tricky with muddy patches and quicksand areas. Small ground clearance vehicles can get stuck if you are not careful. Keep in mind that this stretch demands patience and careful driving.
Once you cross Tsaga La, the road improves significantly. The stretch from Tsaga La to Loma, then Nyoma, and onwards to Mahe Bridge is well-laid tarmac. From Mahe, you join the conventional Leh to Tso Moriri route and continue through Sumdo, past Kiagar Tso, to reach Korzok at Tso Moriri.
A useful alternative on Route 1 is to take a detour from Loma to Hanle (about 55 km from Loma). Hanle has basic guesthouses and is home to the Indian Astronomical Observatory. If you are feeling tired or running behind schedule, spending a night at Hanle breaks the long drive into two manageable days. You can then continue from Hanle back to Loma and onwards to Tso Moriri the next morning.
Key Distances on Route 1
| Segment | Distance (approx.) | Road Condition |
|---|---|---|
| Spangmik to Man | 18 km | Dirt track along lake shore |
| Man to Merak | 12 km | Dirt/gravel, some sandy patches |
| Merak to Chushul | 25 km | Mix of dirt and broken tar |
| Chushul to Tsaga La | 35 km | Dirt road, rough patches, quicksand zones |
| Tsaga La to Loma | 40 km | Improving, mostly tarred |
| Loma to Nyoma | 35 km | Good tarmac |
| Nyoma to Mahe | 25 km | Good tarmac |
| Mahe to Sumdo | 50 km | Good tarmac |
| Sumdo to Korzok (Tso Moriri) | 50 km | Fair, some gravel near lake |
How Does Route 2 via Kaksang La Work?
Route 2 diverges from Route 1 at Chushul and takes you through even more remote territory via Nama and Kaksang La Pass. This route was opened to domestic tourists in 2022 by the Indian Army, and very few travelers use it even now.
Route 2: Spangmik to Korzok via Kaksang La (330 km, 12-14 hours)
Pangong Tso (Spangmik) → Man → Merak → Chushul → Nama → Kaksang La → Mirpal Tso → Yaye Tso → Hora La → Horala → Mahe → Sumdo → Kiagar Tso → Tso Moriri (Korzok)
The road from Chushul to Kaksang La Pass (17,834 ft / 5,437 m) has improved considerably since my earlier trips. As of 2024, most of the route is now well-tarred. I remember from my 2015 trip that sharp stones on the Nama side of Kaksang La cut the tires of our car. We had to fit a Pajero tire on a Fortuner to save ourselves, somehow. Those days are largely behind us now, though you should still carry a spare tire and basic repair tools.
Kaksang La is one of the highest motorable passes on this circuit at 17,834 ft. On the way, you will pass Mirpal Tso and Yaye Tso, two stunning high-altitude lakes that almost nobody sees. The road from Kaksang La to Horala and from Horala to Mahe is all black tarmac now. So barring a few patches in between, the road is in good condition.
You will be very lucky to spot another vehicle on this route. Since this route was only opened in 2022, it remains extremely desolate. There will be no help around for miles in case of a breakdown. Hence, I strongly recommend traveling in a group of at least 2-3 vehicles.
Route Comparison: Tsaga La vs Kaksang La
| Factor | Route 1 (Tsaga La) | Route 2 (Kaksang La) |
|---|---|---|
| Total Distance | ~290 km | ~330 km |
| Driving Time | 10-12 hours | 12-14 hours |
| Highest Pass | Tsaga La (15,289 ft) | Kaksang La (17,834 ft) |
| Road Condition | Rough till Tsaga La, tarmac after | Mostly tarred (as of 2024), some patches |
| Traffic/Help | Very low, some army vehicles | Almost zero civilian traffic |
| Open Since | Available for years | Opened to tourists in 2022 |
| Best For | Most travelers, safer option | Experienced off-roaders, adventure seekers |
| Scenic Highlights | Pangong shore, Changthang plateau | Mirpal Tso, Yaye Tso, Kaksang La views |
What About the Rezang La War Memorial?
If you are traveling via Route 1 through Chushul, I highly recommend stopping at the Rezang La War Memorial (also called Ahir Dham). It is located approximately 35 km after Chushul, at an altitude of about 16,000 ft. This memorial honors the soldiers of the 13th Battalion, Kumaon Regiment, who fought under Major Shaitan Singh during the 1962 Sino-Indian War. It is a profoundly moving place to visit, and the setting on the barren Changthang plateau makes it even more impactful.
The memorial is a short detour from the main route and adds about 30-45 minutes to your journey. In my opinion, it is absolutely worth the stop.
What Permits Do You Need for the Pangong Tso to Tso Moriri Direct Route?
As of 2026, Indian nationals do not need an Inner Line Permit (ILP) for traveling anywhere in Ladakh, including Pangong Tso, Tso Moriri, Hanle, Umlingla, or these direct routes. The old ILP system was replaced by the Ladakh Environment/Development Fee (EDF) in 2022.
You only need to pay the Ladakh Environment Fee online and carry the receipt (hard copy or soft copy). Here is the official portal: lahdclehpermit.in.
The current fee structure is:
- Environment Fee: Rs 400 per person (one-time)
- Wildlife/Ecology Fee: Rs 20 per person per day
- Red Cross Fee: Rs 10 per person per day
Please keep in mind that this is NOT a permit. It is just verification that you have paid the environment and ecology fees. This receipt may be checked at some checkposts along the route. Hence, always carry it with you.
Important: Foreign nationals are NOT allowed on these direct routes beyond Merak. Foreigners require a Protected Area Permit (PAP) and are restricted to the standard tourist areas.
What Should You Carry on This Route?
These direct routes are among the most isolated stretches you will encounter anywhere in India. There are no fuel stations, no mechanics, no medical facilities, no mobile network, and very few other vehicles for most of the journey. Here is what you absolutely must carry.
- Extra fuel: There is no petrol pump between Leh and Korzok on this route. Carry at least 20-30 liters of extra fuel in jerry cans. The nearest pumps are in Leh (before) and Upshi (if diverting). Read my detailed guide on how to carry extra fuel safely if you are on a motorcycle. For a broader overview, check the fuel availability guide for Ladakh.
- Spare tires and repair kit: Sharp stones and rough terrain can puncture tires. Carry at least one spare and a basic repair kit. A portable air compressor is also very useful.
- Food and water: Carry enough food and 4-5 liters of drinking water per person. There are no restaurants or dhabas on the direct route.
- Warm clothing: Even in summer, temperatures can drop sharply at Tsaga La and Kaksang La. Carry layers and a wind-proof jacket.
- Basic medicines: Diamox (for altitude sickness), pain relievers, bandages. There is no medical help available on this route. Read about AMS prevention and acclimatization before attempting high passes.
- Tow rope and shovel: Vehicles can get stuck in sandy and muddy sections, especially between Man and Tsaga La.
- Offline maps: Download the route on Google Maps or use Maps.me before leaving Leh. There is zero mobile network on most of this route.
For a complete checklist, refer to my guide on essential things to carry on a Ladakh self-drive trip.
Can You Complete This Route in a Single Day?
Technically, yes. Both routes can be completed in a single long day of driving. Route 1 via Tsaga La takes 10-12 hours and Route 2 via Kaksang La takes 12-14 hours. However, I would strongly recommend breaking it into two days if your itinerary allows.
Here is why. You will be driving at altitudes between 14,000 and 17,800 ft for the entire day. The combination of thin air, rough roads, and remote terrain makes this physically exhausting. If you start early from Spangmik (by 5-6 AM), you can reach Korzok by evening on Route 1. But there is very little margin for error if something goes wrong, like a flat tire, wrong turn, or a vehicle getting stuck in quicksand.
If you want to split it, there are two good stopover options on Route 1. Nyoma has a few basic guesthouses where you can stay overnight. Alternatively, you can take a detour from Loma to Hanle (55 km), which has better accommodation options including the well-known Padma Homestay. Hanle also gives you the chance to visit the Indian Astronomical Observatory, which is a worthy side trip on its own. On Route 2 via Kaksang La, there is no accommodation between Chushul and Mahe, so the two-day option is harder to execute unless you camp.
Which Vehicle Is Best for the Pangong to Tso Moriri Direct Route?
A high ground clearance vehicle is strongly recommended. SUVs like the Fortuner, Thar, Scorpio, or Bolero handle this route well. Sedans and hatchbacks can technically make it on Route 1 via Tsaga La, but you need to be very careful on the sandy and muddy sections between Man and Tsaga La.
For Route 2 via Kaksang La, I would not recommend anything less than a proper SUV or adventure motorcycle. The altitude (17,834 ft) and remote terrain demand a reliable vehicle with good ground clearance.
If you are on a motorcycle, Royal Enfield Himalayan or similar bikes with knobby tires work best. Carry a puncture repair kit and be prepared for strong crosswinds on the open plateau. Riding solo on this route is risky. Always ride in a group. For more tips, check out my self-drive tips for Ladakh.
What Is the Best Time to Travel This Route?
The direct routes from Pangong Tso to Tso Moriri are accessible only during the summer months. Here is a month-by-month breakdown.
- Late May to June: The route opens as snow clears. Expect cold winds, some snow patches near Tsaga La and Kaksang La, and rougher terrain. Water crossings may be higher due to snowmelt. Stunning clarity and fewer people.
- July to August: Most stable accessibility. Road conditions are at their best. However, occasional rain can turn dirt sections muddy. Dust storms are possible on exposed plateaus. This is the most popular window.
- September to early October: Crisp, clear weather with very cold mornings (sub-zero). Strong winds in the afternoon. Roads are generally stable. Fewer tourists. One of the best times for photography.
- Late October to April: Not recommended. Extreme cold, snow-blocked passes, and no support infrastructure. The route is essentially closed.
For a broader perspective on planning your trip timing, read my guide on the best time to visit Ladakh.
How Much Does This Route Cost?
If you are self-driving, the main cost is fuel. Here is a rough budget estimate for the Pangong to Tso Moriri direct route in 2026.
| Expense | Estimated Cost (2026) |
|---|---|
| Ladakh Environment Fee | Rs 400 + Rs 20-30/day per person |
| Fuel (self-drive, ~300 km) | Rs 2,500-4,000 depending on vehicle |
| Extra fuel (jerry can) | Rs 2,000-3,000 (20 liters) |
| Accommodation at Korzok | Rs 1,000-3,000/night (homestay to guesthouse) |
| Food (packed from Leh) | Rs 300-500/person |
If you are hiring a taxi from Leh for a multi-day Changthang circuit (Pangong + Tso Moriri), the taxi union rate for the full circuit is approximately Rs 22,000-28,000 depending on the vehicle type and number of days. Check the latest rates in my Leh Ladakh taxi rates guide.
For a complete budget breakdown for your entire Ladakh trip, refer to my Ladakh trip budget calculator.
Should You Take the Direct Route or Go via Leh?
This is the big question, and my honest answer is: it depends on your experience level and how much risk you are comfortable with.
Take the direct route if:
- You have prior experience driving in Ladakh or similar high-altitude terrain
- You are traveling in a group of 2-3 vehicles minimum
- Your vehicle has good ground clearance and is mechanically reliable
- You are carrying extra fuel, food, water, and basic repair tools
- You want to save a full day (vs going back to Leh and then to Tso Moriri separately)
Go via Leh (conventional route through Upshi or Chumathang) if:
- This is your first trip to Ladakh
- You are traveling solo or with a single vehicle
- You have a low ground clearance vehicle
- You are not comfortable driving long hours on isolated, unmarked roads
- You have elderly passengers or young children with you
I always suggest everyone keep in mind that all the remote routes in Ladakh are isolated, and most are dirt roads. Better stick to the traditional routes in case it is your first trip to Ladakh to avoid the uncertainties on these unconventional routes 🙂
Is There Mobile Network on the Direct Route?
There is essentially zero mobile network on the direct route between Spangmik and Nyoma/Mahe. BSNL may show a faint signal at Chushul and Nyoma, but do not rely on it. Jio and Airtel do not work on this stretch at all.
Your phone will get signal again at Nyoma (BSNL) and then at Korzok (intermittent BSNL). For detailed coverage information, read my guide on mobile connectivity in Ladakh.
Carry a fully charged power bank and download offline maps before you leave Leh. Inform your hotel/homestay in Korzok about your expected arrival time so they keep food ready.
What Should You Know About Staying at Tso Moriri?
Once you reach Korzok at Tso Moriri, keep in mind that camping on the lake shore is banned. Tso Moriri is a Ramsar wetland site, and the local panchayat along with the wildlife department strictly prohibit camping near the water’s edge to protect the fragile ecosystem. All accommodation is in Korzok village, about 1-2 km from the lake.
Korzok has basic homestays (Rs 800-1,500/night) and a few guesthouses (Rs 1,500-3,000/night). The food is simple but filling. Do not expect hotel-level comforts here. For a detailed overview of where to stay, check my guide on accommodation options near Tso Moriri.
Practical Tips from My Experience
Over multiple trips on these routes, here are the practical tips I have gathered that will help you travel better.
- Start early. Leave Spangmik by 5-6 AM. You want maximum daylight for this journey. Driving after dark on these roads is extremely dangerous.
- Fill up fuel in Leh. The last reliable petrol pump before this route is in Leh city. There is a new pump at Tangste (34 km before Pangong), but do not count on it always being operational.
- Travel in a convoy. Minimum 2-3 vehicles. If one breaks down, the others can help or go get help. Solo vehicles on this route are taking a serious risk.
- Watch for quicksand. Between Man and Tsaga La, some sections have sandy, marshy ground. If the ground looks wet and soft, stop and check before driving through. Do not follow another vehicle’s tracks blindly.
- Respect the altitude. You will be above 14,000 ft for the entire day. Stay hydrated, avoid exertion, and watch for AMS symptoms. If anyone in your group shows signs of severe altitude sickness, turn back immediately.
- Carry a paper map. GPS can lose signal. The DwD Maps of Ladakh or a printed route map can be a lifesaver when you are at a fork with no signage.
- Army checkposts. You may encounter army checkposts at Chushul and possibly at Loma. Keep your ID and environment fee receipt ready. The soldiers are generally helpful and may give you road condition updates.
- Do not litter. The Changthang plateau is one of the most pristine ecosystems in India. Carry all your trash back with you. This is non-negotiable.
Watch this detailed video on the Discover With Dheeraj YouTube Channel covering essential tips for traveling directly from Pangong Lake to Tso Moriri. If you find it helpful, please do subscribe to the channel for more Ladakh travel content.
I hope this guide helps you assess whether this route is right for you. If you have done this route, I would love to hear about your experience in the comments below. It helps other travelers make better decisions.
If you have any questions about planning your Pangong to Tso Moriri journey, feel free to ask in the comments section or in the “Ask a Travel Question” section of the website. I will be happy to help, my friend 🙂
Do not forget to share this article with your friends and family who are planning a trip to Ladakh. Also, join our DwD Travel Community to connect with fellow travelers who have driven these routes and can share real-time updates.
Last Updated: March 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Can foreigners travel on the Pangong to Tso Moriri direct route?
No. Foreign nationals are not allowed beyond Merak on the Pangong Lake shoreline. The direct routes via Tsaga La and Kaksang La are restricted to Indian nationals only. Foreigners need a Protected Area Permit (PAP) and must stick to the standard tourist routes through Leh.
Is the Pangong to Tso Moriri direct route safe for a sedan or hatchback?
Route 1 via Tsaga La can be done in a sedan with careful driving, but it is not ideal. The stretch between Man and Tsaga La has sandy patches, quicksand, and rough gravel that can be challenging for low ground clearance vehicles. Route 2 via Kaksang La is not recommended for sedans at all. An SUV or high ground clearance vehicle is strongly recommended for both routes.
Is there any petrol pump on the Pangong to Tso Moriri route?
No. There is no petrol pump anywhere on the direct route between Pangong Tso and Tso Moriri. The nearest pumps are in Leh and at Tangste (34 km before Pangong, opened in 2023). You must carry at least 20-30 liters of extra fuel in jerry cans for this journey.
Do I need an Inner Line Permit for the Pangong to Tso Moriri direct route?
No. Since 2022, Indian nationals do not need an Inner Line Permit for any part of Ladakh. You only need to pay the Ladakh Environment Fee (Rs 400 one-time + Rs 20/day + Rs 10/day Red Cross) on the official website and carry the receipt. This receipt may be checked at army checkposts along the route.
What is the altitude of Kaksang La Pass?
Kaksang La Pass sits at an altitude of 17,834 ft (5,437 m), making it one of the highest motorable passes in Ladakh. It is higher than Khardung La (17,582 ft) and comparable to Chang La (17,585 ft). Proper acclimatization is essential before attempting this pass.
Can I travel from Pangong to Tso Moriri by public transport?
No. There is no public transport (bus or shared taxi) on the direct routes from Pangong to Tso Moriri. You need your own vehicle or a hired taxi. If you are traveling by public transport, you would need to return to Leh first and then take a separate bus or shared taxi to Tso Moriri via the conventional Upshi-Chumathang route. Check the Leh Ladakh bus services guide for schedule details.
Is mobile network available on the Pangong to Tso Moriri route?
Effectively no. There is zero reliable mobile coverage between Spangmik and Nyoma on this route. BSNL may show intermittent signal at Chushul and Nyoma. Jio and Airtel do not work on this stretch. Download offline maps and inform your accommodation about your expected arrival time before leaving.
Can I camp at Tso Moriri lake shore?
No. Camping on the Tso Moriri lake shore is banned. Tso Moriri is a designated Ramsar wetland site, and the local panchayat along with the wildlife department prohibit camping near the water to protect the ecosystem. All visitors must stay in Korzok village, about 1-2 km from the lake, where homestays and guesthouses are available.
122 Comments
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Good day, Dheeraj !!!
So this is what u told me yesterday about foreigners are NOT allowed to take this route.
I’m very understand now.
Also have read some other blogs that informed us about such situation. The army, the border, the permit…. Ughhh !!!
That’s why I should back to Leh first before take Tso Moriri
Thank you Dheeraj, wish I could meet you and ur fams at the day I visit Leh
Dysta
Hey Dysta,
Thank you so much !! You can keep in touch at my Instagram Handle at @devilonwheels
As of now I am in United States, so meeting in India or Leh will not be possible 🙂
instagram followed done ❤
Hi Dheeraj,
Very informative and I found all details which I need in all your articles. You are doing good work for new tourists and keep it up.
I just have one question, since we are couple travelling from Sep 1st to Sep 9th. We wish to save those extra days in coming back from Nubra to leh and then again going to Pangong.
Since we will be sharing a taxi. Is it possible to get a shared taxi from Nubra to Pangong , and Pangong to Tsomriri.
Thanks
Abhinav
Thank you Abhinav. Now a day most many people do take the direct route from Nubra to Pangong Tso. So, you should be fine with it. But, Pangong Tso to Tso Moriri will be tough to get shared taxis.
Hi Dheeraj,
Its time for Leh 2.0 🙂 this time we are adding Hanle and Tso Moriri, so it would be Leh-Karu(tank up)-Pangong Tso-Hanle, Hanle-Tso Moriri and then we heading to Pang/Manali. I have read a few blogs which states fuel availability in black in Durbuk. we plan to carry atleast 15-20 ltrs on each bike. just wanted to confirm if you have any info on Durbuk. if yes how reliable it is. Also if Karzok would have any fuel availability in black, so that we can top up.
We plan to cover Marsimik La, so consider ~130km extra. I would love to cover Umling La as well but you know it would be over ambitious considering fuel availability.
Thanks
Sandeep
Well, there are many villages that provides them including Durbuk, Chusul, Hanle, Chumathang but the problem is if someone else takes it before it wont be available. So, you cannot rely on just one single village. I agree adding too many things into the plan without fuel backup is not a good idea.
Thanks Dheeraj, I agree relying on one village doesnt make sense. I was not sure of Chusul or Chumathang for fuel availability. I guess would have to take some calculated risk 🙂
Yes, do take care and take a calculated risk only
HI DHeeraj,
Can you guide me the route for tso kar? I understood the route of tsomoriri from tsopangong..i want to go to sarchu after tsomoriri..my ques is will tsokar be on route?
if not than how much will be the deviation? and can i go to Sarchu from Tsomoriri in one day after visiting Tsokar?
Piyush, you have to start from tso Moriri and reach a pillage called Sumdo on the way back to Mahe bridge, from that village you have to take a left instead of going towards Mahe bridge. Then you will continue to follow that road running through Puga – Poloklong La and reach Tso Kar. After few KMs ahead on the same route you will reach Manali – Leh Highway. Then take a left towards Sarchu. Please refer our maps.
Hi, We have prepared an itinerary for Leh – Pangong Tso – Chusul – Tso Moriri – Leh in 3 days.
Day 1: Leh – Pangong Tso (stay at Spangmik)
Day 2: Pangong Tso (Spangmik) – Chusul – Tso Moriri (stay at Tso Moriri)
Day 3: Tso Moriri – Leh
Kindly accord whether these routes are OK.
We are traveling on Aug 20,21,22 2017 through this route.
The major concern for this route is fuel as it is very long travel of around 650kms. with only petrol pump at Leh. We will rent Bullet 500 which has 13.5 ltrs. tank only and load will of driver + pillion + one travel bag. Suggest what mileage we can expect on this route with Bullet 500 and also how much fuel extra we have to carry, is it feasible to carry so much fuel while driving through dirt roads?
Also inform us about the dog problem in Changthang Valley, I have heard they attack people! How serious is this problem? Whether we should drop this route due to dog problem!?
I have visited Leh – Pangong – Leh in single day in 2015 and your forum has been a great help to us during our last trip as well. Kindly address our issues, it will be a great help. Thanks.. Regards, Amit Upadhyay
Didn’t I reply to your comment today? Is it a duplicate one?
Hello Dheeraj,
We are planning to take the direct route from pangong to Tso Morriri.
We are a group of 12 and will also have a backup vehicle with us. We have a little concern regarding crossing the chushul pass. Can you update the current status whether people are allowed to cross or not?
Also, what is the current road conditions of this route?
Thanks,
Harsh
People are allowed to cross Chusul with a valid permit. It is not a pass but a post.
Hi Dheeraj.
Pl suggest whether we should go from pangong to tso morriri directly or via Leh as via Leh we will spend one extra day And pl. suggest route from tso morriri to Manali with best stay option. We are 5family members age 20 to 50 years travelling by Pajero sports. We will be in pangong on 1 or 2 June. Will Leh Manali highway open till 4-5 June.
Regards
If you do not have a constraint on days, for a family trip, I will strongly suggest coming back to Leh and then taking the route to Tso Moriri. Leh – Manali Highway should be open by end of May.
Hi Dheeraj,
I am visiting Leh next month for 5 days. My itinerary is as follows (8th-13th May)
Day 1- Del to Leh by air, spend the day in Leh.
Day 2- Leh-Alchi-Lamayuru-Leh
Day 3- Leh-Nubra
Day 4- Nubra-Pangong OR Nubra-Tso Moriri (if its feasible)
Day 5- Back to Leh
Day 6- Leh-Delhi
I would like to know if this itinerary is fine and other one about traveling to Tso Moriri from Nubra. I have already been to Pangong and this time I really want to visit Tso Moriri.
Thank you
Hi Tara,
Drop Tso Moriri as it is not feasible. On direct route from Nubra to Pangong Tso, please make sure that you have some company as it is a desolated route. So, in case of mechanical failure or any other issue, other vehicles can help each other. Nubra to Tso Moriri is not feasible. You need to add a day more.
HI Dheeraj
we 40f family are visiting leh from jalandhar to leh on 28 may by pajero sports 4 by 4 as per itenry
28 may jalandhar to srinagar
29 may srinagar to kargil
30 may kargil to leh
1 june leh to nubra
2 june nubra to pangong
3 june pangong to tso moriri
4 june tso moriri to kelong
5 june kelong to kaza
6 june kaza to kalpa
7 june kalpa to simla
8 june simla to jalandhar
please suggest if ok we are frequent travellers to lef 4 times but never made such hectic schedule before
we have srictly this periob only 28 may to 8 june
pl suggest better itenry we can drop kaza this time
You should do it like below:
8 may jalandhar to srinagar
29 may srinagar to kargil
30 may kargil to leh
1 june leh rest day and permits
2 june leh to nubra
3 june nubra to pangong
4 june pangong to Leh
5 june Leh to Tso Moriri
6 june Tso Moriri to Sarchu
7 june Sarchu to Manali
8 june Manali to Jalandhar
Hi dheeraj,
I am planning bike trip to Leh with my wife in June, 2017. We will be doing solo ride. Below is my itinerary. Kindly provide your suggestions on it.
D1-Delhi to Manali (560km, around 14hrs)
D2-Manali rest and local sightseeing
D3-Manali to Jispa (140km, around 6-7hrs)
D4-Jispa to Leh(340km, around 12-14hrs)
D5-Leh rest and local sightseeing
D6-Leh to Dah (188km, 5-6hrs)…covering Sham Valley circuit
D7-Dah to Leh (188km, 5-6hrs)
D8-Leh to Turtuk (205km, around 8-9hrs)
D9-Turtuk to Hunder (85km, around 3-4hrs)
D10-Hunder to Pangong (250km, around 6-7hrs). This would be via Agam-Shyok route and rest will be at Manik village
D11-Pangong to Tso-Moriri (330km, 9-10hrs)…via Chusul-Tsaga-Nyoma-Mahe
D12-Tso-Moriri rest
D13-Tso-Moriri to Sarchu (230km, 9-10hrs)
D14-Sarchu to Manali (225km, 7-8hrs)
D15-Manali rest
D16-Manali to Delhi (13-14hrs)
On Day 11, add Hanle instead of Tso Moriri rest. Your plan looks possible but for direct routes, please make sure you have a company with you as they are desolated routes. Also, you will need to arrange for permits and ensure have enough fuel always.
Thanks Dheeraj. How is the plan looking now?
D1-Delhi to Manali (560km, around 14hrs)
D2-Manali rest and local sightseeing
D3-Manali to Jispa (140km, around 6-7hrs)
D4-Jispa to Leh(340km, around 12-14hrs)
D5-Leh rest and local sightseeing
D6-Leh to Dah (188km, 5-6hrs)…covering Sham Valley circuit
D7-Dah to Leh (188km, 5-6hrs)
D8-Leh to Turtuk (205km, around 8-9hrs)
D9-Turtuk to Hunder (85km, around 3-4hrs)
D10-Hunder to Pangong (250km, around 6-7hrs). This would be via Agam-Shyok route and rest will be at Merak village
D11-Pangong to Leh (150km, 5-6hrs)
D12-Leh to Tso-Moriri (220km, 6-7hrs) via Upshi
D13-Tso-Moriri to Pang/Sarchu (300/380km, 9-10/12-13hrs) via Upshi
D14-Pang/Sarchu to Kullu (340/260km, 8-10hrs). Doesnt want to stay in Manali again
D15-Kullu to Chandigarh (270km, 8-10hrs). Have to meet a friend.
D16-Chandigarh to Delhi (5-6hrs)
Is the route from Hunder to Pangong via Agam Shyok desolate too?
Also pls let me know cell phone connectivity (I have Airtel) in Pang, Sarchu, Turtuk, Pangong and Tso-Moriri.
Which are the places I can visit on Day 5 which will not be covered in rest of the days? I know Shanti stupa is one, any other inputs?
Yes Harshit, the direct route via Agham – Shyok is desolate, so please have some company with you to travel with you. You should refer: 10 Tips on Mobile Phone Connectivity in Leh – Ladakh
And also Travel Guide for Local Sightseeing of Leh Town in Ladakh
Hi,
We are a group of 2 people from Kolkata – having a plan to visit Ladakh by early Sept’17.
The brief itinerary is as below.
Day 1 : Manali to Keylong
Day 2 : Stay at Keylong – local sight seeing
Day 3 : Keylong – Leh
Day 4 : Stay at Leh – local sight seeing
Day 5 : Leh – Nubra
Day 6 : Stay at Nubra – Nubra sight seeing
Day 7 : Nubra – Pangong
Day 8 : Pangong – Tsomoriri
Day 9 : Tsomoriri – Leh
Day 10 : Leh – Lamayuru
Day 11 : Lamayuru – Leh
Day 12 : Fly back from Leh
My queries are :
1. I need to stay half day at Manali – therefore can I start Manali to Keylong journey post 12PM?
2. After a day stay at Keylong for sight seeing [as indicated in the plan], can I go to Tsomoriri directly, or still is it harmful for health?
3. Which car is more suitable for this journey? Last year we have traveled Lahaul-Spitti-Chandratal with an innova.
Also please let me know if you have any specific concern on the above itinerary.
Regards,
Bhaskar Roy,
Kolkata – 77
Hello Bhaskar,
1. Well, yes, you should be able to reach Keylong by 7 PM. Better stay at Jispa to cut short the journey by an hour next day.
2. You should not go to Tso Moriri: 5 reasons not to visit Tso Moriri from Manali side
3. Innova shall be fine with experienced driver.
All the details about the direct routes of Pangong Tso to Tso Moriri and Nubra to Pangong Tso along with tips and risks which they pose are detailed under the articles:
Tips for Nubra Valley to Pangong Tso Direct Route AND Tips for Pangong Tso to Tso Moriri Direct Route
Please read these articles and based on the details/risks highlighted, take a go-no-go decision.
Hello Dheeraj,
Thank for your response.
Another query.
I want to cover all tourist attractions between Leh and Mulbech – for this what should I do?
option 1 : Start Journey from Leh – cover all places upto Mulbech – return back to Leh on the same day – night stay at Leh
option 2 : Start Journey from leh – cover all places upto Mulbech – night stay at Lamayuru – return back to leh on the next day.
Please let me know which is OK.
The month – as I mentioned earlier – is Sept beginning.
Regards,
Bhaskar
Hello Bhaskar,
Option 2 is less taxing on the body as option 1 will mean leaving very early in the day and being on road only till late evening.
hii Bhaskar,
The information provide by Dheeraj is fine but you can visit Tsomoriri from Pangong directly in month of September. That would be wise thing to do. & there is no risk at all.
The concern is he going directly to Tso Moriri from Manali side. And yes, now a days, even there seems to be not much of an issue with permits of Chusul as well.
dear sir thanks for advice about sach pass we done it and now we are planing for leh and ladakh we done it twice by taxi but now we are on bikes so please advise us can we go nubra velly to pangong tso and pangong tso to tsomoriri in 2 days and wich route sutible for us to go manali from tsomoriri
and sir little weak in English plz do,t mind
and sir we try it from Srinagar side from Ludhiana all rider have experience sach pass and spiti from kaza side
Parveen, you can go like
Nubra Valley – Agham – Shyok – Pangong Tso as Day 1 and then Pangong Tso – Chusul – Tsagala – Loma – Nyoma – Mahe – Sumdo – Tso Moriri on Day 2. Day 2 will be long and you will need permits from DC office in Leh to pass through Chusul and Tsaga checkposts.
Hi Dheeraj
Please advice, we are 7 adults taking tempo traveler. Out tour will be like this:
17th sep = Arrive leh. Full day rest
18th Sep = leh sightseeing (sangam, magnetic hill, Pathar sahib Gurudwara, hall of fame, spituk monastery, etc) = May be rafting from Phey to Nimoo.
19th Sep = sankar gompa and village, shanti stupa, stok gompa, leh palace, leh market
20th Sep = Leh to tsomoriri
21st Sep = tsomoriri to Leh via tsokar and taglang la pass.
22nd Sep = Leh to Nubra via Khardungla Pass
23rd Sep = Nubra to Pangong vis Shyok / Warila
24th Sep = Pangong to Leh via changla pass and sightseeings like Shey, thiksey, Hemis, sidhu ghat, 3 idiots school.
25th Sep = Leh departure.
My questions:
1) is Nubra to pangong route via shyok/warila open on 23rd Sep 2016?
2) Is tempo traveler of 12 seater is safe to take from Nubra to pangong route via shyok/warila?
3) Is Phey to Nimoo rafting is open on 18th Sep.2016?
4) Please advice the cost of Rafting per person with Lunch?
5) We all are Indians, so do we have to pay for tsomoriri, Nubra and Pangong Inner line Permit?
Your urgent revert is highly appreciated.
Hi Nikita,
You have to alter your plan else it may be recipe of disaster. You have to visit Nubra Valley first then pangong tso and then tso moriri after complete rest on Day1,2.
1. Yes, it will be open but leave early in the day and do not venture on that route without company of other vehicles.
2. Yes, that shall be fine but you should have company on the route.
3. Yes, it remains open though it may be cold water
4. I think it is around 1200-1500 depending on the package
5. No, you need a self declaration form only.
Dear dheeraj,
im Planning to go from 1) pangong lake to tso moriri (via chumatang route).
2) & return from tso moriri to Leh (via Thukjee-meru-gya -rumtse -mathoo route)
can you please suggest me the best spots and places to visit on the way. And some tips for the ride
Ashwin, every thing will come on the way on these routes and you do not need any diversion. From Mahe village, there is a 20 KM uphill drive to Yaye Tso Lake, which in case you are interested can undertake. Rest all the lakes will come on the road iself.
thankyou dheeraj for the info about Yaye Tso Lake …else i would have missed it. 🙂
is it advisable to go to nubra valley from leh on the first day skipping the local sight seeing?? . ( as we are reaching leh by bus from manali). bus ride to leh from manali will be enough for the acclimatisation right??
You must acclimatize for one day in Leh before moving to Nubra Valley. So, there shall be two night stays in Leh first.
Dear Dheeraj,
We are group of 9 people in 2 private cars, viz: Scorpio and Innova (ground clearance increased). We have been to Leh-Ladakh region earlier twice, and want to do something different and challenging this time. We are kind of people who just love and live to drive where there is no road. The Trip will mostly comment on 25th Aug 2016 from Manali
We did plan an Itenary, and it goes like this
Day 1. Manali – Sarchu (I understand the risk of AMS, and will be on Diamox to counter/address it)
Day 2. Sarchu – Tso Moriri via Pang, Meroo, Thukje, Sumdo, Karzok. Night stay @ Tso Moriri
Day 3. Tso Moriri – Pangong Tso via Sumdo, Mahe, Yaye Tso, Mirpal Tso, Chusul, Merak, Man, Spangmik
I have a question here, is the road on Day 3 doable?
the itenary continues…
Day 4. Pangong Tso – Hundar via Tangste, Durbuk, Shyok, Agham, Khalsar
I have a question here too, after going thru the article https://discoverwithdheeraj.com/tips-for-nubra-valley-to-pangong-tso-direct-route/, is this route doable? We otherwise will hesitantly take the Wari La route. Any latest update?
the itenary continues…
Day 5. Hundar – Leh, via Khardung La
Day 6 Leh – Lazy day, relax
Day 7 Leh – Kargil, with a stop over at Magnetic Hill and Nimoo for rafting
Day 8 Kargil – Keylong, via Rangdum, Padum, Anmo, Purne, Shingo La
question here, as per BRO there is road connectivity (based on what I could find out from the internet). Is Padum to Keylong connected, and any update on the condition of the road is appreciated. Actually, we are unable to get any reliable/updated information on this route, so this route is a concern
Day 8 (Alternative itenary) If the Kargil – Keylong route is not an option, then we continue towards Srinagar, and from thereon back to home, i.e. Bangalore
Anything else that you might think may be high on adventure quotient, please suggest
Forgot to add, we have managed to organise the permit before hand that we might require @ Chusul from our contact in Leh.
Murtaza, it is highly not recommended to execute above plan in this manner, better do it Tso Moriri circuit while coming back. Highly recommended that you avoid Sarchu as well. Shyok route is doable in the first half of the day when water is less in river. Day 8 is not possible as the road is not there now from Padum to Keylong. From Keylong side they have opened up to Shinko La. Consider the situation in Srinagar first and then plan it.
Thanks Dheeraj for your inputs, and appreciate the level of info on this website, great job bro, keep going….
Point taken about doing Tso Moriri from Manali side.
The Day 3 route is still unanswered, which may be reversed, i.e. Pangong to Tso Moriri, via Spangmik, Man, Merak, Chusul, Mirpal Tso, Yaye Tso, Mahe, Sumdo. Is this route open?
Murtaza, mostly army does not allow to pass through the Kaksang La – Mirpal Tso route. We did the route from the opposite side. Had a fortuner 2 out of 5 tyres got deep cut due to sharp stones lying on the road mostly throughout the route after Yaye Tso. We wer stranded with no help at that moment and in case we did not have company of another Pajero who stepney we put up in fortuner and drover like at 5-10 KMPH for about 30 KMs in 3 Hrs, we may have been either dead at that high altitude or car would have still be there 🙂 🙂
You have mismatch of tyre size with the cars you are traveling in, so weigh in the risk.
Dear dheeraj,
please plan me trip for leh
aug 27- bhubaneswar to delhi by flight
aug 27-delhi to manali by hptdc bus
aug 28-stay at manali
aug 29-manali leh by cab
aug 29 night -stay at jispa
aug 30 evening will reach leh
aug31-sept5-no idea
sept 6-leh to delhi by flight
sept 6-delhi to bhubaneswar by flight.
so dheeraj please help me out we will be roaming leh in bikes only & we also want to go tsomoriri is it possible in this time frame
Sidhant, are you sure you want to make this trip as I do not see you have enough days to do anything in Ladakh. You are just doing Manali – Leh Highway and then flying out. Are you sure?
here i am giving you my final plan.
Day-1 Bhubaneswar to delhi by flight.same day Delhi to manali by bus
Day-2 stay at manali & local sight seeing
Day-3 Manali to leh Via jispa night halt at jispa by cab
Day-4 Jispa to leh
Day-5-take rest in leh & local sightseeing
Day-6 Leh to nubra valley via khadurga la pass over night stay at Hunder
Day-7-Nubra valley to papangong over night stay at spangmik
Day-8-Spangmik to tso moriri lake over night stay at tso moriri
Day-9-Tso moriri to Leh
Day-10-didnt plan any thing dat day
Day-11 Leh to delhi,delhi to bhubaneswar
Better avoid direct route from Pangong Tso to Tso Moriri, come back to Leh and then use Day 10 to make two day easy trip to Tso Moriri from Leh.
In addition, can you also please advise about the precautions, medicines which might be required and some tips on kind of clothing need to be carried (We are travelling in august).
Well, you canrefer: List of things to carry when you go on trip
Hi Dheeraj,
Thanks for the wonderful work! Here is my itinerary for the leh-ladakh trip.
20th Aug – Land in leh, Half day for acclimatization and then shanti stupa and leh palace visit.
21st Aug – Visit Spituk monastery driving along indus- zanskar sangam, Gurudwara and hall of fame and alchi monastery.
22nd Aug – Leh to nubra. via khardungla pass. stay in hunder overnight.
23rd Aug – Nubra – pangong via shaylok valley. Overnight at pangong
24th. Pangong – Leh visting shey palace,Thiksey and hemis gompa.
25th Aug -Leh – Tsomoriri via Chumatang. Overnight at tsomoriri.
26th Aug – Tsomoriri – Tsokar-Leh via mahe village and tanglang pass
27th Aug – depart from leh.
Please advise if it is fine or would it be too hectic.
Regards,
S
Plan is OK, make sure you have couple of accompanying vehicles in case any help is required on Shyok route. Also, confirm if the Shyok route is open or not.
Hi Dheeraj,
We are a family of four aged 64, 59, 34 and 33 planning to travel to Kashmir and Ladakh as per below itinerary starting Aug 11, 2016. Request your guidance if the same looks feasible and if you could also provide approx travel time we would be undertaking on a daily basis in below itinerary.
Day 1: Mumbai to SRINAGAR (by flight )
Day 2: Srinagar to Gulmarg
Day 3: Gulmarg to Pahalgam
Day 4: Pahalgam city tour and drive to Srinagar
Day 5: SRINAGAR LOCAL SIGHTSEEING
Day 6: SRINAGAR TO KARGIL
Day 7: KARGIL TO LEH
Day 8: LEH LOCAL SIGHTSEEING
Day 9: LEH TO NUBRA VALLEY
Day 10: NUBRA VALLEY TO PANGONG TSO
Day 11: PANGONG TSO TO LEH
Day 12: LEH TO TSO MORIRI
Day 13: TSO MORIRI TO LEH
Day 14: LEH TO MUMBAI
Thanks for all the advice.
Regards,
Vivek Bhandari
Hi Dheeraj,
Thanks a lot for the blog – It has been our go to site for any damn question we had for our trip. Need tour suggestion on our itinerary-
Day 1 – Flying in to Leh
Day 2 – Leh – covering lumrayu
Day 3- Leh sight seeings
Day 4 – Leh to Nubra
Day 5 – Nubra to Leh (just overnight in leh)
Day 6 – Leh to Pangong
Day 7 – Pangong to Tso Moriri ( Need your help here)
Day 8 – Tso Moriri to Leh
Day 9 – Leh (Sham Valley)
Day 10 – Fly out
My primary concern is with pangong to tso moriri – How much time will it take to reach? And will it be too hectic?
Dear Dheeraj,
First of all hats off to you man for the detailed info on Leh Ladakh Journeys.
Me and my friends have the following plan:
June 18 – Flight from Hyderabad and Land at Srinagar – Night Stay at Sonmarg
June 19 – Sonmarg to Leh – Night stay at Leh — Question: Whether we ca reach Leh by night if we start in morning from Sonmarg covering Zoizila and Kargil/Dras?
June 20 – Leh to Nubra Valley via Khardungla – Night Stay at Nubra – We will be hiring Bullets for this. Any idea about the prices and the best dealer who we can deal with to get the bike ?
June 21 – Nubra to Leh – Local Site Seeing and Night Stay at Leh
June 22 – Leh to Pangog – Here we wish to travel by car, Howver, is there a possibility of we going on bike and later on the bike can be collected by the dealer at Pangog ? – Night Stay at Pangog
June 23 – Pangog to Tsomoriri Lake – Question: How much time does it take to reach Tsomiriri and is it worth spending a day in car to visit here ? night Stay at Tsomoriri
June 24 – Tsomoriri to Jispa – Now this as per me this is going to be tiring. Any suggestions by you ? We ingtend to do paragliding at ROhtang Pass. – Night Stay at Jispa
June 25 – Reach Manali and spend time in Manali
June 26 – Manali. Leave Manali for Delhi around in afternoon
June 27 – Delhi to Hyderabad flight at 7.30 AM.
I know that I have put a lot of details for you to answer. But a reply from you will help us in plan accordingly.
Thanks in advance
Saurabh
Saurabh, you are trying to do too many things in too less days. I will suggest either to add few days and make it relaxed to enjoy or drop places.
I can only recommend following for you:
June 18 – Flight from Hyderabad and Land at Srinagar – Night Stay at Sonmarg
June 19 – Sonmarg to Leh will take around 13-14 Hrs, so leave early
June 20 – Leh rest and acclimatize
June 21 – Lhe – Nubra
June 22 – Nubra to Leh
June 23 – Leh – Pangong Tso
June 24 – Pangong Tso – Sarchu
June 25 – Sarchu – Manali
June 26 – Manali. Leave Manali for Delhi around in afternoon
June 27 – Delhi to Hyderabad flight at 7.30 AM.
Dear Dheeraj,
Thanks for the quick and helpful. Could you help us with a reliable travel agency who can arraneg cab from Srinagr and drop at Delhi and Bullet Bike dealer in Leh ?
Thanks a lot !
I may have to drop Tsomoriri based on your suggestion
Saurabh, you can connect with info@offbeatescapes.com as most of the readers in the past three years have had very good feedback about them and especially their transparent policies along with being there with you all the time in need. So, we trust them the most (please note that DoW except reliable reference has nothing to do with them so please don’t copy/mail us :))…
Hi there,
First of the devilonwheels is amazing.
Well now my questions. I m going to leh on 11th June.
Last time I went via Srinagar. This time I am planning to go via Manali. So I was planning to go to tso morir first and then reach Leh. Is it ok and what about permits. I read somewhere that we do not need permit anymore.
Please help.
You should not do Tso Moriri while going from Manali to Leh because first the taxi from Manali will not be allowed to visit Tso Moriri. Even if you manage Leh taxi or going on your own, then you will not be acclimatized to sleep at such high altitude so early in the trip and may cause some ugly AMS issues for you. Highly not recommended, because any help if required will be very hard to find in case you get hit with AMS.
dear Dheeraj ji
salute to you, you have been doing a great job. i have a small query which might seem irrelevant but i want to know if someone else (local friend of mine ) can obtain a ILP for me and my family in advance from DC office leh to travel from Pangong tso to tsomoriri? coz i dont have time once i reach leh, am a bit tight on time. thanks in advance.
Deepak, that is possible and many a times foreigners do it this way only.
Thanks. But are traveller’s ids not required at the time of issuance? And if I go myself and submit the form. In how much time will get it? See I don’t want to waste any time while I am there.
Please refer: Inner Line Permits for Leh – Ladakh
HI Dheeraj,
i heard ,Outside self rental cars not allowed for local sightseeing in leh,as we will come to leh from Srinagar route and come back by Manali.
We will stay at Leh and park the car in hotel in leh,and take local bike for local sightseeing,
So please suggest how to cover Pangong Lake,Tso moriri, Nubra in one go or is there any alternate route to cover two of them(not Nubra).
The main problem is to come back to Leh after covered all to take our car 🙁
Lavish, they are not allowed for any sightseeing in Ladakh but can be used to get in and out of Leh. You will have to go bck to Leh only to pick the car and drop the bikes.
Hi,
You have mentioned about the 4 wheelers, are 2 wheelers good for the above mentioned routes?
Same question for:
Nubra Valley – Agham – Wari La – Shakti – Chang La – Durbuk – Tangste – Pangong Tso (Lukung)
Nubra Valley – Agham – Shyok Village – Durbuk – Tangste – Pangong Tso (Lukung)
I am planning to travel in mid August. How are the conditions of these routes as of now?
Do we(Indian Citizens) require special permits for travelling ?
Regarding Nubra Valley to Pangong Tso route, in order to take Nubra Valley to Pangong Tso via Shyok village, you need not need any permits. However, with such a small distance it appears tempting to be done BUT just to analyze the difficulty I will strongly suggest that you read:Trip Report | Nubra – Shyok Village – Pangong Tso Route. The report is from couple of year back in June & in July/August, most likely the route is washed away. Similar, reports are there from last year as well. So better confirm first, analyze the high risk involved and then only attempt it or better avoid it unless very much sure.
Next possible way is to attempt Wari La route, which is also a bit desolated but doable enough. If your driver agrees to travel on this route then take the Wari La route to Pangong Tso. Remember that any help required on both these routes will be HARD to find in miles of distance. If you have couple of vehicles then only take this route otherwise best is to avoid it.
No permit required
Hello,
I am planning to go Leh via manali in last of May through private car.
Can you please update me when manali leh highway will open ?
Or is there any permit required for Manali leh Highway, Pangong TSO, TSO Moriri, Nubra Vally.
Can we use our private car for visiting Pangong TSO, TSO Moriri & Nubra Vally ?
Thanks
Mohit
Mohit, as per the reports it looks like Manali – Leh will only open by late May. Some camping sites of sarchu have started loosing hopes for this date now and they consider it may not open before first week of June.
traveler exp on the internal route: last year, July we travelled from Moriri to Pangong with a DC permit (must). The article has summed up the conditions of the roads brilliantly and here are some quick pointers
* carry multiple copies of your permit, at every stop you submit a copy and might be asked to fill a form too
* carry ‘extra’ food supplies and water – there is literally no human sight for few hours on a stretch
* if self driving – be sure to have a back-up provision (with another vehicle or proper toolkit and tyre) or take mobile numbers of jawans at check posts (they are unwilling at first, but would comply if you request) but having said, be lucky if you get a mobile signal
* only do this route if you have patience to drive very slow at times, and be very careful at running streams, they are very deceptive
Hope these help. Best part the no human sight, wildlife sighting (sighting a wild horse running around in the lonely terrain is the best a photographer can ask for) the silence, all of this is something magical and must be experienced.
DoW – you are doing an amazing job. BIG thanks
Thank you Varun for the wonderful tips.
Hi
We have planned the following route.. no self drive cars
Day 1 : Manali — Keylong / Jispa
Day 2 : Keylong / Jispa — Leh
Day 3 : Leh
Day 4 : Leh — Nubra via Khardungla
Day 5 : Nubra — Pangong Tso
Day 6 : Pangong Tso — Tso Moriri
Day 7 : Tso Moriri — Leh
Day 8 : Leh — Kargil
Day 9 : Kargil — Srinagar
Could you please let me know if this would be a very hectic plan with lots of travelling..
Also can this be shortened a bit if we say drop Pangong Tso (only if this plan is too hectic )
thanks!
Yes, this is very hectic plan and you will only be on road bhai. It is beter to do two day trip to both Nubra and Pangong Tso
Thanks Dheeraj 🙂
Seems we would be dropping either tso moriri or pangong tso.
Not decided yet.
Heard shyok village is a good watch.. So was thinking of dropping tso moriri..
Bt then again tso moriri ‘as heard’ is much more beautiful!
Any suggestions with this?
I will go with Tso Moriri anyday.
Hey Dheeraj, could you please give an idea on how much time it generally takes from Spangmik to Chushul, on an Innova? Do you have any suggested locations for wildlife and birds? Thank you!
Spangmik to Chusul will take about 2.5-3 Hrs easily. Tso Kar is famous for bird spotting and wildlife. Hanle is another place for wildlife spotting.
Thanks a lot for the information! We saw a pair of black necked cranes at Chushul and a the trip was awesome!
Awesome, welcome back !! How about sharing any review, short trip log or photo tale in DwD Community 🙂
If Chusul permits are denied can we take Pangong – Erath – Horla route for Hanle, or one also needs permits for this ?
No Zamir, you can’t because the Chusul check post cuts through both the routes one at chusul and other just ahead of it at Nama towards Horala
Dheeraj, what is the current road condition as of 2016 of Pangong to Hanle via both Chusul and Hor La ?
Can a hatchback do it ? Is any of the road tarred ?
Regards.
It will be very very tricky to take a hatch on that route. There is sand which is common and cars do get stuck in that route. DO NOT try Chusul to Horla route on a hatch at all
Can a tempo traveller go from pangong Tso to Tso Moriri?
Thank you.
Yes, it can travel on that route.
Hi! Im wondering how is situation with permits to lakes Pangong and Tso Moriri? You did mentioned that permit need to remote areas permits to Man – Merak – Chusul – Tsaga, do we need permit (we are foreigners) if we go ( only for sunrise) to the lakes only? How long it takes to take this permit and how much it costs now?
thank you for reply:)
Foreigners are not allowed to go beyond Spangmik – Man villages at Pangong Tso. You will not get the permits for this route. You have to get the protected area permit even to reach Pangong Tso, here are te details and the process: Protected Area Permit in Ladakh for Foreigners
What is the cost of the permit ?
Please check: Ladakh Inner Line Permit Updates on Process & Download Form
Dear Dheeraj and other experts,
i have planned a trip to leh-nubra valley-pangong tso and tsomoriri from 7th of august and have booked a bike for the trip through a company named .
as trending in the news is that vehicles/bikes with registration plates other then leh arto wont be allowed in that region.
please update me on this and also a route in which i can have a good trip.
the itinerary i had planned was
8th august:reach manali by 10 and start from there to keylong.overnight stay
9th august:try to reach leh by 6-7pm or spend the night at upshi.
10th august:direct to nubra valley via khardungla pass
11th august:from nubra valley towards pangang tso(max journey)
12th august:pangong tso and start towards tsomoriri.stay in some village enroute.
13th:tso moriri lake in and around and start on the manali route.stay in some village enroute.
14th:try to reach manali by night or else stay in the highway
15th:manali .bus to delhi at 6pm.
i am travelling solo with tents and kitchen gear so no issues of sleeping in some dhabha compound or something similar.
i also have done many treks during snow seasons so sleeping also should not be an issue.
please give your expert opinion regarding my trip.
thank you and regards
yogesh
7407328887
Hi Yogesh,
Bikes rented outside Leh are not allowed for sightseeing inside Ladakh. Private bikes are completely allowed. You can use the outside rented bike to reach Leh but then for going to Pangong Tso, nubra Valley, etc.. you need to hire rented bikes from Leh only.
To know more about this rule and present situation, please refer the link: Bikes Rented Outside Leh Banned in Ladakh
Regarding your tour plan, I will advice that you stay overnight in Leh at least before going on to Khardung La to Nubra Valley. Then all the details about the direct routes of Pangong Tso to Tso Moriri and Nubra to Pangong Tso along with tips and risks which they pose are detailed under the articles:
Tips for Nubra Valley to Pangong Tso Direct Route AND Tips for Pangong Tso to Tso Moriri Direct Route
Please read these articles and based on the details/risks highlighted, take a go-no-go decision.
All in all a very hectic itinerary you have planned.
hey dheeraj,
thanks for the information in detail regarding my queries.
i have planned to drop down to manali directly from tsomoriri.and to tsomoriri from pangong.
i dont have any plans for returning to leh once i visit pangong.do you have any idea weather this will be fine with the laddakh motorbike association people.
also one more query,are there any spaces where i can pitch my tent and sleep overnight during my trip as i dont want to spend much on acomodation
regards
yogesh
Yogesh, in that case how do you plan to return the bikes back to them in Leh and get your bike from there? You can pitch your own tents anywhere but I will suggest you pitch them at a place where there are some dhabha tents put up by locals or where other camping guy pitch theirs or somewhere near some house in village or in their garden/lawn. All you will need is to gently ask them (villagers/dhabha guys/camping guys) for permissions. Most likely they will allow, other wise negotiate for small little tip or move on to some other such place nearby. This will give you sense of security too.
Hi Dheeraj,
we are planning a trip in a innova and are planning to go to tso morriri direct from sarchu, and from there to pangong via noma and chushul, on the 24th from sarchu to tso morriri and on 25th from morriri to pangong.
1. whats the road conditions for thise particular section
2. whether permits would be needed
Ashwani, You should not do Tso Moriri while going from Manali to Leh because first the taxi from Manali will not be allowed to visit Tso Moriri. Even if you manage Leh taxi or going on your own, then you will not be acclimatized to sleep at such high altitude so early in the trip and may cause some ugly AMS issues for you. Highly not recommended, because any help if required will be very hard to find in case you get hit with AMS.
Also, going towards Loma Nyoma will need permits which are available in Leh only.
Hi Dheeraj,
We have planned our Ladakh itinerary with some great and most helpful tips from you. During my previous trip in 2005 I had visited Pangong Tso. Though a breathtakingly beautiful place I found it devoid of life, with no birds or any form of wild life seen in the vicinity. Trees or any form of green cover was virtually absent. As a result i had omitted visiting this place in our trip starting 19th June 2015. However due to overwhelming pressure from my family members i wish to make a last minute change in our itinerary. We are driving a 4WheelDrive Scorpio. What i want to ask you is this.
Considering the off chance that we do get the permits, can we start from Hunder early morning and reach Pangong Tso via Leh and then onward without stopping via Spangmimk-Man-Merak-Chusul-Tsaga-Loma-Nyoma-Mahe-Sumdo-Kiagartso-Korzok. In one day? Please advise.
You can surely do it these back to back hectic 12+ hrs journeys if you all can. Just keep in mind that permit is just one thing, getting permission to cross Chusul from army posted there is another thing. So, even if you have permits, you can be sent back from Chusul.
Dear Dheeraj
Am taking manali rohtang road for leh this june (19th june to 29th june). Can i reach from sarchu to tso moriri in a day? How will be the road during june? From tso moriri we are planning to drive towards leh.
Hi nono
As per our conversation am maling you our tour itinerary.
19: 1 day in manali.
20: manali to jispa or sarchu
21: jispa or sarchu to tso moriri
22: Tso moriri to leh
23: leh to nubra
24: nubra to pangong
25: pangong to hemis or leh
26: leh and hemis (attend hemis festival). Or stay in hemis.
27: leh to manali
30: manali to delhi.
We are keeping 2 days extra in our hand just in case of land slides or breakdown. Would it be possible for nubra to pangong lake this june? We are using innova.
You should not do Tso Moriri while going from Manali to Leh because first the taxi from Manali will not be allowed to visit Tso Moriri. Even if you manage Leh taxi or going on your own, then you will not be acclimatized to sleep at such high altitude so early in the trip and may cause some ugly AMS issues for you. Highly not recommended, because any help if required will be very hard to find in case you get hit with AMS.
what is the current status of the chusul-mirpal tso-mahe road? I read in another blog a road was being built kakasang la. Is it complete?
please ignore this comment. I did not see the response to my previous post and thought it was not sent
Sure, no worries.
This was replied.
Do you have any latest info on road conditions for chusul-mirpal tso- mahe? I read that there was road construction work near kakasang la. Has it completed?
Srini, that route is forbidden. IN rarest of rare chance army allow to pass that route. Even in case you are allowed on some extremely lucky day, it is not that good road to take as the risk is quite high.
Any update on the current condition of the Tsaga La route? What is the travelling time we should look at from Spangmik to Loma during end of June.
Raghav, condition of route does not change much. It is a dirt track and always remain as is 🙂 … It will take about 5-6 Hrs to reach Loma from Spangmik provided army allows you tro travel through Chusul.
We took this direct route from Pangong – Tso Moriri in Oct 2014.
(Pangong Tso – Man – Merak – Chusul – Tsaga – Loma – Nyoma – Mahe – Sumdo – Kiagar Tso – Tso Moriri )
We were 3 people driving our own car, travelling to Ladakh valley for the first time & yet we somehow dared to take this route.! 🙂
That 1 day on this route was the scariest, most adventurous and THE MOST BEAUTIFUL drive of our entire 9 day drive through Ladakh.! Driving along Pangong Tso on dirt tracks, no road, no walking soul for miles, no clue where in the world we are driving, obviously no connection with the outside world, no one to guide – a day we’re going to remember for a life time! One can breathe a sigh of relief only after reaching Tsaga village. Permit issue – yes, we had all permits but still had our fingers crossed at each check post – wasn’t a very smooth passing.
Moral of the story – Absolutely go for it, if your’re an adventure junky.!
Yeah, cannot agree more, it is one great route to take up with defined constraints and risks 😉
Awesome! Looks like a great story..
I am planning to do this on the bike,
Have a question here –
Last time when I had gone to Pangong via ChangLa, I just submitted a Protected area form at the checkpost – is this what you are referring to when talking about permits?
If yes, why do we have to go to the DC office in Leh to get the permits?
Arvind, if you went before 2014 then yes that is the permit issued from Leh office is required here but if you went in 2014 or after it, then you will need to get the permit done from Leh DC office since then permits were expemted for common routes for indian tourists. Permits are issued from DC Office still for interior non tourist routes.
Perfect, thank you Dheeraj.
Also, is there any way I can get ILP on Manali Leh highway?
Planning to visit Hanle and Chuchul before hitting Leh, hence the question.
Arvind, it is highly not recommended to travel that route unless you are acclimatized. It is away from civilization and at high altitude. Your body will not be acclimatized to sleep by that time of the trip at such a high alttude and you may end up quite ill.
PLZ REPLY … PANGONG LAKE NIGHT STAY LOWEST FARE… ??
We do not book any hotels or packages, you can check with info@offbeatescapes.com if required.
ANY IDEA ? PLZ SUGGEST ME THANK U … 🙂
This can help: Good Hotels or Accommodation options near Pangong Tso – Ladakh
We took this route in 2014. Its a brilliant drive. Keep lots of spare fuel and do not try to off road near the lake. Good luck
Dear Manish,
Planning on doing the Pangong Tso – Tso Moriri this year.. please let me know the route you took and the problems you faced. I assume it is extremely beautiful and worth any difficulties faced !! Thanks,
Govindan