Accommodation at Pangong Tso : Hotels & Camp Sites

by Vargis.Khan

Accommodation at Pangong Tso

Where to stay at Pangong Lake? This may have been a question of concern a decade ago but not anymore. In recent years, Ladakh has seen a great boost in tourism, and finding a place to stay is not difficult at all. Accommodation at Pangong Tso now is available in all forms. As per your convenience, you can pick from a long list of hotels, guesthouses, campsites, and homestays.

In the article below, I will talk about the different choices of accommodation available near Pangong Lake and list down a few names that I know of. I will also provide their contact information if you wish to call ahead and book in advance.

Please note that in this post, I will only talk about where to stay near Pangong Lake. For other details like how to reach, the best time to visit, public transport, and sightseeing, please take a look at How to Plan a Trip from Leh to Pangong Tso.

Where to Stay at Pangong Lake

The first time I visited Pangong was over a decade ago. It was an entirely different scenario than it is today. At that time, I and a friend of mine were the only tourists at Pangong that day. It was just the two of us standing there with not a single living soul in sight.

Accommodation at Pangong Tso back then was limited to just one government-run hotel which was always highly overpriced and booked months in advance. Finding a room on the spot there was next to impossible.

The only other choice was a single poorly maintained room that the villagers had put up near the lake. They would charge Rs. 100 per person, give you a blanket and a mattress to sleep on the ground in that room. If they got 10 tourists, then all 10 will be sleeping on the ground in that same small room. That is how we spent our night there.

Much has changed in the last few years ever since the movie ‘3 Idiots’ was released. Now right from the point where the lake starts also starts a series of Chadar tents which is later followed by a never-ending line of campsites. Now accommodation at Pangong Tso is not a challenge anymore.

You neither are required to book your stay months in advance after paying a hefty price nor sleep on the floor of a broken room wrapped in a thin blanket (this was kind of fun actually now when I think about it). Now no matter what your budget is, no matter when you arrive, no matter how long your stay is, you will easily find a place to stay for the night.

Also read: How to Plan a Trip to Leh Ladakh – A Complete Travel Guide

Places to Stay Near Pangong Lake

As a matter of fact, it is not just the village of Spangmik where you can stay now. A little further after Spangmik, also on the banks of Pangong Tso are the small villages of Man and Merak.

Until a few years ago, no one had any idea about these tiny hamlets. People will just arrive until Spangmik and be back on their way to Leh from there. In recent years, a lot of tourists have now started visiting Man and Merak as well. As a result, a few guesthouses and homestays have come up in both these villages as well.

So in total, there are 4 places near Pangong that you can stay at.

  • Tangtse
  • Spangmik
  • Man
  • Merak

Of these, Tangtse is located 45 kilometers before the lake. The distance may discourage people from staying here but there are a few decent guesthouses here in the village.

The villages of Spangmik, Man, and Merak are located right along the lake and have guesthouses, campsites, and homestays available.

accommodation-at-pangong-lake-1

Accommodation at Pangong Tso Lake

There are 5 options available in terms of accommodation at Pangong Tso – hotels, guest houses, campsites, chadar tents, and paying guests.

Hotels near Pangong Lake

Hotels at Pangong Lake are a rare breed. In fact, there are none but one. Pangong Camp Resort is the only cemented hotel at the lake and the oldest staying option.

It is a government-run hotel, maintained by JKTDC, and a pretty good one too. Rooms are quite comfortable with hot water provided in buckets. Food is the best at this hotel and the service is quite satisfying.

Expect the price to start from at least Rs. 3000 / 4000 for a double bedroom and inclusive of meals. It is the preferred and probably the best option to stay if you are visiting with family.

The only downside however is that this hotel is booked months in advance and mostly by foreign tourists. It is within a walking distance of the lake and provides an amazing view of Pangong, especially from its roof. It is however definitely not a choice if you are on a budget trip.

Pangong Camp Resort JKTDC

  • Location: Spangmik
  • Phone: 0191 254 9065

Hotel Pangong Residency

It is a cemented hotel and a good option to stay if you do not want to stay in the camp, could not get a booking at Hotel Pangong Camp Resort, and do not mind staying a little far from the lake.

Location: Tangtse
Phone: 094192 43495

Are you traveling to Ladakh with your kids accompanying you? Please read How to Plan a Trip to Ladakh with Infants or Children for a few tips on preparations and precautions you must observe in order to ensure a hassle-free trip.

Guest House at Pangong Lake

The logic that I am using to differentiate between a hotel and a guest house here is that a hotel is a large establishment, like the one I mentioned above. Guesthouses at Pangong Lake however are merely an extension of the houses of the villagers. They have built a couple of rooms and rent those out.

This is a great choice of stay, both comfortable and not that costly as well.  Rooms at these guest houses are quite spacious and clean, and the food quality is decent.

Please do know however that in peak tourist season, the guest houses at Man and Merak too will charge you quite high; almost as much as the campsites. If you were traveling on a budget, you will have to look for either a guesthouse in Tangtse or a homestay in Spangmik.

Below are the names and numbers of a few guest houses that I know of.

Pangong Tso Kongma Resort

  • Location: Spangmik
  • Phone: 094695 30962

Dorjay Delbu Guest House

It is a great place to stay that has been highly recommended by a few friends. To reach here, continue driving after Spangmik until the village of Merak. The location of the guest house is amazing, close to the lake. Rooms are quite comfortable and the food is simple but delicious.

  • Location: Merak
  • Phone: 099069 93462

Yakmik Changla Guest House

  • Location: Tangste
  • Price Range: Rs 1500 for a double bedroom
  • Phone: 9469567990, 9469726902

Dothguling Guesthouse

  • Location: Tangste
  • Price Range: Rs 1500 for a double bedroom
  • Phone: 01981-201156, 09469726914, 09469188966

accommodation-at-pangong-lake-1

Homestay at Pangong Lake

Now, this is again where the difference between a guesthouse and a homestay in these villages turns a little thin. They may sound like more or less the same thing because the room you are renting will anyway be a part of the owner’s house or he will be living somewhere close.

As a matter of fact, almost every villager’s house in Spangmik serves as a homestay. You can talk to any villager and they may allow you a stay for the night in return for a nominal charge. The catch is that there will be no electricity and limited hot water provided in buckets.

Also read: Recommended and Budget Hotels in Leh City

Another thing that could be a drawback for some people is that the homestays in Spangmik are at a little distance from the lake. The village is an uphill walk on a small mountain. So if sitting at the banks of Pangong is on your mind, you would have to walk down to the lake.

But you will also get an amazing landscape view of the lake. If you need a homestay closer to Pangong then try driving all the way until Man and Merak and talk to the villagers there. Their guesthouses and homestays are right next to the lake but they charge a little too much.

Below are the names and numbers of a few homestays that I know of.

Gongma Homestay

Gongma Homestay is a name that gets talked about the most in Spangmik but I have not really heard good feedback about it recently. I stayed there once a few years ago and they actually treated me nice. The rooms were quite comfortable and spacious.

I recommended them to a few other travelers and everyone came back saying that the host was acting rude. I do not recommend it anymore but you can check it out.

  • Location: Spangmik
  • Phone: 094695 34270

Marzee Home Stay

This is in the village of Merak. I noticed it the last time I was there but haven’t stayed with them.

  • Location: Merak
  • Phone: 099069 93462

Peace Full Home Stay

This is another good place to stay in Merak Village and has been my preferred place of accommodation in my last 2 trips to Ladakh. The last time I was there, I managed to get a cozy room with an extra bed + Dinner and Breakfast @ Rs 2200. The dinner was finger-licking good followed by some delicious hot coffee.

  • Location: Merak
  • Phone: 070511 11988

Peace Full Home Stay

Camping at Pangong Lake

Let us now talk about the largest accommodation choice available at Pangong Tso, the campsites. They are probably the most popular accommodation choice, though may not be a budget option.

It’s a typical campsite with a sleeping capacity of 2 to 4 people per tent. Expect the charges to start from Rs.2000 per person inclusive of meals and then it can go as far as Rs. 4000, depending on the camp.

Also Read: Accommodation in Nubra Valley

Usually, they will tell you that it’s a fixed price but you can always negotiate. The trick is to find a camp that has few or no guests at all because that person will be more prone to negotiating the price.

Tents are quite comfortable with attached washroom facilities. Quality of food will differ with each camp but mostly it is OK, neither too good nor too bad.

Below are the names and numbers of a few campsites that I know of.

Camp Martsemik La

  • Location: Spangmik
  • Phone: 075030 33585

Wonderland Camp

This camp I have heard is open during winters as well but it is not confirmed. If you are planning a winter trip and want to stay at the lake, you can give them a call and inquire.

  • Location: Spangmik
  • Phone: 094191 77723

Pangong Delight Camp

  • Location: Spangmik
  • Phone: 095968 11649

The Kora Pangong Camp

  • Location: Spangmik
  • Phone: 094192 15066

Camp Redstart

  • Location: Spangmik
  • Phone: 094191 77245

Highland Camps

  • Location: Spangmik
  • Phone: 094198 19078

camping at pangong lake

Chadar Tents at Pangong Tso

After campsites, Chadar tents are probably the second most popular choice of accommodation at Pangong Tso Lake, especially for people who are on a budget trip.

So what is a Chadar tent? It is a dormitory-style huge tent with a dhaba at the front and a series of beds towards the back. These are in plenty in Ladakh and quite popular too mostly because they are cheap. Staying here makes a lot of sense when you know that all you need is a bed to crash on for the night because you will be on your way in the morning.

They usually charge between Rs. 200 to Rs. 300 per person, depending on your negotiation skills, excluding meals. You just take your luggage in and sleep on the bed assigned which is quite comfortable considering the money you paid for it.

Though cheap, it is in my opinion a choice only when it is a bunch of guys traveling. You will pay less but will make a huge compromise on privacy which is a big concern when traveling with family or when you have women in your group.

Washroom too is a big problem with these Chadar tents. You will be doing your thing at a place that god only knows how many people have gone to before you.

chadar tents

Self Camping at Pangong Tso

A lot of people chose to pitch their own tents. This is also a great choice for an overnight stay at Pangong lake. Up until a few years ago, places for self camping were far too many but these days, finding a good spot could be a bit of a challenge.

There are Chadar tents and campsites one after another, claiming those grounds, and may not let individuals set up their own gear.

The best way for self camping would be to talk to either of these site owners. Pay them a little and in exchange, they will give you a spot to camp. You can also use the washrooms for that campsite for the same amount which is a great additional benefit. For more detail on self camping in Ladakh, please take a look at Camping in Ladakh: Self-Camping & Campsites.

My preferred choice would be to go to Man or Merak for self camping. Pay any of the villagers over there to give you a spot on their land. You can ask them to arrange food for you as well.

Also read: Accommodation at Tso Moriri

Wooden Huts / Cottages

A lot of new temporary structures like wooden huts or even cemented rooms were constructed by the locals near the lakes. These were illegal constructions and were later demolished by the authorities but got rebuilt later next year.

If you want to stay somewhere closer to the lake but not in a tent, you can check these cottages out. They can be a good choice of accommodation at Pangong Tso.

The last time I was there, I noticed a place by the name of ‘Mesmerik’ that had cemented rooms by the lake which they were offering for Rs. 1000 per day. Apart from these rooms, there were a few other wooden cottages by the name of ‘Himalayan Wooden Cottages’ that you can check out.

  • Himalayan Wooden Cottages
  • Location: Spangmik
  • Phone: 09716507246
  • Price Range: Around Rs. 4000 for a double-bed cottage with two meals included

Accommodation at Pangong Tso

Other Tips

I have not of course stayed at all the places mentioned above. These are just names and numbers that I gathered when I was at Pangong myself or from friends.

Please note that an Inner Line permit is required in order to visit Pangong Tso from Leh. You can either obtain this permit online or from the DM office in Leh. Read How to Obtain Inner Line Permit for Ladakh for more details.

Pangong is at one of the highest altitudes in Ladakh. You may suffer from high altitude sickness while staying for the night here. Please read How to Handle Acute Mountain Sickness in Ladakh for more details.

The only network that may get a signal here is BSNL or MTNL. The reception however for both would be extremely poor. Please read Mobile Phone Services in Ladakh for further details on where your cell may or may not work.

Let me once again go back to the experience that I shared of my first visit to Pangong Lake. While finding a place to stay was a challenge, there was also an upside to being the only two people at Pangong that day. The Indian Army used to allow boating in the lake those days; in their own patrol boats of course.

Since we were the only two tourists around, we spoke to them and got a chance to go boating in one of the most beautiful lakes in the world. An experience that is no longer available.

vargis khan

Where to Stay at Pangong Lake – Conclusion

If I was to be asked, the best choice among the ones listed above would be the campsites. You get your own tent, not highly overpriced, have attached washrooms, hot water, food is OK and they are right next to the lake.

You can squeeze them into your budget too if you have some negotiation skills. During our last visit, I on purpose searched for a campsite where there were no other guests except for us because that campsite was more prone to dropping the charges.

If this doesn’t fit into the budget then the guesthouses and homestays at Spangmik, Man, and Merak will be the next best option. If you are on a strict budget and need the cheapest option available, then you need to go for Chadar tents.

I hope this information on accommodation at Pangong Tso was of help. If you have any other questions, please feel free to ask in the comments section below, or at our Community Forum and I will be happy to answer.

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85 comments

Col Surinder Ghuman June 19, 2022 - 3:34 pm

Dear Vargis…. Deeply impressed with ur guidance to everyone approaching u.I m 70 year old Defence Veteran ( col).I shall reach leh by Eve on 7 July 2022. I hv my room bookings at Leh from 7 to 10 July & again on 13& 14 July.In between ie on 11 & 12 th July,I hv bookings at Partapur. I m off to sarchu- on 15 morning & thereafter to Manali on 16th.Plz advise how do I plan my sightseeing at Leh,nubra valley & pangong from 8 July to 14 July as mentioned above.My main dilemma is staying overnight at pangong if I go from partapur to pangong via shyok route,on 13
morning,spend 2 hours around n leave for Leh via changla..,if u advise avoiding overnight stay in pangong due to oxygen prob/ freezing cold etc.I m generally fit for my age…no health issues. Kindly advise as requested.I wud request u to send me ur contact no on my email mentioned below.Wud want to seek ur advice personally on calling u at ur convenience.Thanks a lot.God bless U.My present contact no is 9023 951116.

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AMOL G April 27, 2022 - 6:22 am

HELLO SIR
can we get bikes on rent in LEH? how much it cost and any contact number for rental bike in leh

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Vargis.Khan April 29, 2022 - 7:31 am Reply
Niraj March 6, 2022 - 7:12 pm

Hii I want to go with my wife what will be best option to stay

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Aakash September 12, 2021 - 12:12 pm

Hi Vargis. You have done a tremendous job with this blog.
I have 2 questions for you?

1. Is the JKTDC operated resort that you mentioned above, no longer functional? Can’t seem to reach it. What is the best hotel on the lake?
2. From 18 Sep to 25 Sep, how does this sound to you?

18 Sep – land in Leh around 9 am
19 Sep – sightseeing in Leh
20 Sep – leave for Nubra valley and stay there [we might extend by a day to visit Turtuk village]
21 Sep – leave for Pangong Lake and stay there
22 Sep – leave for Leh
23 Sep – sightseeing in Leh
24 Sep – sightseeing in Leh and nearabouts [might go to Tso Miriri]
25 Sep – check-out and depart for airport after breakfast

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Sujata Rawat October 7, 2021 - 12:37 am

Hi Akash, did you do the trip to leh in sep?

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GAURAV SONI July 12, 2019 - 8:56 am

Hi Vargis..
how are you?Me and my friend is planning Leh from delhi on 12th-27October.i would like to ask you is this good month to go thr?? and which route we can follow as we are going first time by Car.Delhi-Manali or Delhi-Shirnagar-leh

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Vargis.Khan July 12, 2019 - 12:22 pm

Hi Gaurav, Bhai you can do it but better go from Manali side and return from Srinagar coz Manali Leh can close anytime after October Mid so cover that first.

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MD IBRAR June 15, 2019 - 7:29 am

Dear Vargis,we are reaching in pangong on 7th October 2019 with my wife & 4 years old daughter and planning for a night stay at any homestay near the pangong lake…Is it advisable to stay in pangong with 4 years kid???? Please guide me….

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Vargis.Khan June 15, 2019 - 6:54 pm

You can do it if your child does not complain of any uneasiness or shows symptoms of AMS. Start early from Leh, reach Pangong by noon. If your child complains of any uneasiness, return to Leh by evening. If she feels fine, stay for the night.

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Arka May 29, 2019 - 6:31 am

Hi, Any Idea what all accommodation options are still open in Pangong or Spangmik after the ban on camping. I am travelling in July mid. If there are any contact numbers of homestays in Spangmik or Man Villages that will be helpful.

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Vargis.Khan May 29, 2019 - 2:19 pm

A few camp sites are still operational

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Lakshmi Shinde April 13, 2019 - 12:57 pm

Hi Vargis
Me and my family; four adults are planning a 8 night trip to Leh ladaak with one day at leh, one night at Nubra, two nights at Uley and one night at pangong. I am looking for a decent accommodation at pangong; nice view of the lake etc. I was told about hermitage but that looks a bit on the higher side. Anything around 5k that you can suggest that is away from the crowd and has a good view of the lake.

Lakshmi

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Vargis.Khan April 13, 2019 - 4:13 pm Reply
Rayan November 24, 2018 - 8:05 pm

Hi VARGIS,

We are group of five friend, we are planning to visit leh on June,2019. One trip plan is 9-10 days.
Our trip basically Srinagar- Leh- Manali- Delhi. Please check our plan below. We want book a car for leh – manali can you please share what will be the price, can you please tell how to book hotel or camp in nubra, pangong tso, Tso moriri.

Day -1 Srinagar, Local acclimatise.& if possible sight seen.
Day -2 Sight Seen,
Day -3 Move srinagar to Leh and acclimatise ,
Day-4 Local Sight Seen (Santi Stupa & other monasteries )
Day -5 Early morning go to Nubra Stay at nubra,
Day-6 Nubra to Pangong & stay
Day-7 Tso Moriri and stay
Day-8 D & day-9 Tso Moriri To Manali
Day 10 Manali to Delhi

Thanks in Advance.

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Rayan November 24, 2018 - 8:07 pm

Our targetis 20k per head Srinagar to Manali. Is it possible?

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Vargis.Khan November 24, 2018 - 9:41 pm

With 5 people sharing taxi cost, yes it is possible.

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Rahul Patni September 24, 2021 - 1:13 am

Hi – we are planning to visit Pangong in Nov 1st week. What could be decent options to stay there? I read your article, but could not find suggestions for winters. We will be travelling with kids, and hence would prefer a place which is clean and warm. Is there sufficient electricity in guest houses to provide room heating?

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Vargis.Khan November 24, 2018 - 9:40 pm

Rayan – You will need to book 2 different set of taxis for this journey. For Srinagar to Ladakh and then in Ladakh. Srinagar to Ladakh is a 2 days journey so add a day there please. Rest of the itinerary looks good. Your hotel booking can be done by your taxi driver at these places or you can try calling the hotels yourself.

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Jai Ghawri October 2, 2018 - 7:30 pm

Hi Vargis,

This is Jai from Delhi.

I am planning to go on a solo trip to Leh , I am planning to go on 1st of Nov and will be taking return flight on 5th. Please suggest is it good to go on these dates or i should wait for the next year till the season starts, I am planning to visit Pangong and Nubra so please suggest me the stay and the means of transport i can use visiting these places as its budget trip.

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Vargis.Khan October 3, 2018 - 12:29 pm

Better plan for next year as you will not be able to stay at pangong that late in the season. All the camp sites would have already wrapped up by then. It is going to be very cold as well.

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Asha Seth June 28, 2018 - 10:00 am

Hi Vargis,

Ash this side from Mumbai.

I had mentioned to you about my tip in another thread too.

We are a group of 5 planning to visit Ladakh from 29sep to 06 Oct this year. We plan to visit Leh, Pangong Lake, Nubra Valley, Confluence of Indus and Zanskar, Tso Moriri, among other sites such as Army museum and monasteries.
We have the flights booked but not the hotels yet. I have spoken to a few agencies. One travel agency is giving me a quote of 17000 per person. Is that a reasonable enough one because we are looking at a budget travel.
Should we rather look at homestays? If yes, could you suggest any good ones? The idea of homestays is exciting and is one we want to experience but is it good to go with? Will we find homestays in Pangong and other locations too?
I also wanted to ask you about transport. Is local transport a choice to reckon with or should we book a cab there? What do you suggest is a good option that wont be too tight for the pockets? How should we plan the sight-seeing travel?

I would appreciate whatever help you an provide here as I am a lot confused.

Thank you, in advance!

Ash.

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Vargis.Khan June 28, 2018 - 2:17 pm

Hi Asha – Private cabs will cost too much. If you are looking for a budget travel then take the shared cabs available from Leh bus stand, that will be much cheaper. No need to book as well, just reach the bus stand and board a cab going towards your destination.

In terms of accommodation, since you are going towards end of season, you don’t need to book really. Just reach there, find a hotel per your liking and negotiate an on the spot deal. If you book in advance, you will definitely end up paying more.

I am sorry but I do not have any homestays contacts.

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Poulami sarkar June 22, 2018 - 3:29 pm

do we need any prior booking??

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Poulami sarkar June 22, 2018 - 3:20 pm

Thank you so much for your response..will it be available at pangong too in mid October??
Is it important to book it from here?

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Vargis.Khan June 22, 2018 - 3:25 pm

There won’t be many but yes, a few camp sites will be operational at Pangong as well in October.

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Poulami sarkar June 22, 2018 - 4:24 am

Hi vergis…want to visit leh in mid October…can we get staying option in hanle hundar pangong tsomoriri?
If u Pls share ur contact…it will be very helpful

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Vargis.Khan June 22, 2018 - 3:09 pm

Hi Poulami – October is end of tourist season but you will still be able to find a hotel at both Hanle and Hunder.

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Prabhat June 4, 2018 - 12:53 pm

Hello,
Pls let me know of your reviews for Alpine Hut and Pangong Retreat Camp. Much appreciated.
Thank You

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Chaitali Mukherjee May 31, 2018 - 9:56 am

Hi, Mr. Vargish Khan.
I am Chaitali. We are planning to go Ladakh in this September. I have some questions. If you please give me your
phone number , I shall call you later for some queries.
Thanking you.

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Pushpender May 30, 2018 - 7:08 pm

Sir I want your contact number

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Pushpender May 30, 2018 - 7:05 pm

Sir can I get your number plz. ..m going to leh in June. ..if any kinda off Information I want will contact u. .please thank you

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Hardi May 25, 2018 - 8:54 am

Hi Vargis,

We (group of 4) are going to Leh on August this year. We will spend 5 days in Leh with following schedule :
Day 1 : arrive to Leh in the morning, takes time for acclimatization (stay in Leh)
Day 2 : Nubra Valley (Sumur) then to Pangong Tso (stay in Pangong tso)
Day 3 : Pangong Tso then to Tso Kar (stay in Tso Kar), how long the journey from Pangong to Tso Kar?
Day 4 : Tso Kar – Leh (stay in Leh)
Day 5 : Depart from Leh to Delhi
Would you please advise if itinerary above is possible. Next question, any directly access from Pangong tso to Tso Kar and how long the journey?

I appreciate if you give me advise and reply this questions. Thank you very much.

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Dayal May 14, 2018 - 4:12 am

I want to do self camping in every place such as leh nubra valley. Is it possible to do and if not, what is fare in leh to accommodate

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Vargis.Khan May 15, 2018 - 5:43 pm

You cannot camp in Leh, rest of the places you can. Hotel Charge in Leh would be around Rs. 1000 to Rs. 1200.

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Dayal May 17, 2018 - 1:17 pm

In leh homestays are available or not

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Vargis.Khan May 17, 2018 - 4:04 pm

It will be hard to find one in Leh city

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Harry April 21, 2018 - 4:52 pm

Hello Sir……Great work….hats off to your dedication for giving us such detailed information…I have one query sir…As I will be visiting Pngong lake in first week of june and I want to spend a night there. I just want to ask you about the temperature during night and will I get any accommodation near lake ? like tents or any guest house….

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Vargis.Khan April 22, 2018 - 5:42 am

Hi Harry, thank you for your kind words. Yes you will get multiple choices of accommodation to stay at the lake. Temperature at night will be very cold but the camps are warm and comfortable so you will have no trouble at all.

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Harry April 22, 2018 - 2:18 pm

k …….thanku very much sir for your quick response….

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Vargis.Khan April 22, 2018 - 4:15 pm

You are welcome

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Jonathan Baptista April 14, 2018 - 2:32 pm

Hi. . . can you pls give me you no.. . . i got a couple of queries and would really appreciate it if you help me

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Anuradha April 1, 2018 - 9:43 am

Dear Vargis, We shall be visiting Pangong Tso in mid-may. Can you please advise if the tents are warm enough?. Thank you.

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Vargis.Khan April 2, 2018 - 2:41 pm

Hello Anuradha – Yes the tents are very warm and wind-proof. You will be comfortable enough, do not worry.

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Hayat November 14, 2017 - 6:48 am

Thanks Varghis for such an organised information
We (group of 4) are traveling to Leh on nov 19 early morning and have 5 days in hand
We definitely want to do Pangong stay .Can you please advise in terms of the option that would be available to us .Would camping be a feasible option
Thanks

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Vargis.Khan November 15, 2017 - 1:31 pm

Hello Hayat – Camp sites may no longer be available in Novemeber and you will have to look for guest houses at Spangmik or at Man/Merak.

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Sahil September 28, 2017 - 9:45 am

Hi Vargis,

I’m travelling with my friend who is a US citizen and I have a lot many concerns and am really tensed about it. Would it be possible for you to share your phone number and get on a call for 5-7 mins?

Thanks a lot in advance.

-Sahil

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Vargis.Khan September 28, 2017 - 4:01 pm

Sahil – I replied on your email with my number.

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SShruti September 13, 2017 - 10:54 am

Could you advise some options for staying in Oct start considering it would be quite cold there and tents might have moved away.

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Vargis.Khan September 13, 2017 - 11:56 am

You can stay as a paying guest with the locals in Spangmik. Or drive a little ahead to Man or Merak and stay at the guest houses there.

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Praveen Tyagi August 7, 2017 - 4:15 am

Hello Mr. Khan,
Can I contact you through phone?
If yes, please let me know your contact number..
Thank you very much

Reply
Vargis.Khan August 7, 2017 - 2:33 pm

Parveen Bhai sent you an email. Call per your convenience.

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Rajabaksh August 2, 2017 - 2:17 pm

Hi Vargis,

We have plan of bike trip from Aug 7 to 12th AUg in leh. I need 2 most important information, where do i rent bike in leh with good condition ( as we are 6 group of people doing solo ride) share the contacts and regarding accommodation( i already refereed your articles) but need some more help.

5th Bangalore to Delhi flight
6th delhi to led flight we reach by air to leh
7th Leh to pangong and stay Night
8th pangong to leh and stay night
9th Leh to nubra valley and stay night
10th Nubra to leh and stay night
11 th Leh to kargil ( can we cover it one day )
12th leh to manali ( by taxi) can we cover it in one day or two days we need.
13th and 14 th manali and 14th aug night journey to Chandigarh to catch flight to Bangalore

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Vargis.Khan August 2, 2017 - 2:26 pm

Hello Rajbaksh,

Regarding your itinerary, what time is your flight landing in Leh? Before proceceding towards Pangong the next day, you will need to arrrange for ILPs so ensure ensure that you plan your timings accordingly.

Second, do not go to Pangong first or else you will just suffer from AMS. Go to Nubra first and let your body adjust to high altitude. Nubra valley is at a lower altitude than Pangong so it will be better to go there first and plan Pangong for later.

Are you asking about going from Leh to Kargil in one day and coming back to Leh? If yes, then it is not doable in one day. Take a ride on Srinagar Leh highway, go as far as you can by noon or 1 PM and then head back towards Leh.

Yes you can get a shared taxi from Leh for Manali non-stop but it is not something that you will get in the morning and reach Manali by evening. On 11th, first find out about shared taxis. It usually starts sometime in the evening. So that way, you will take the cab on 11th evening and reach Manali on 12th. Find out about the shared cabs while you are in Leh and upon getting the information, plan your day on 11th accordingly. You may have to give up the Kargil plan altogether and spend time in leh itself.

For bike rentals, I do not have a contact in Leh but I got one in Srinagar. Talk to Faisal at 9596410670. He runs a rental agency in Srinagar. Give him my reference and he will route you to a reliable rental company in Leh.

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Rajabaksh August 2, 2017 - 2:34 pm

Thanks fro quick reply Vargis much appreciated.,

DO we need ILPs to go to pangong and nubra ? As well check my new plan. once more thing i wanted to to nubra to pangong via shyok village road, can we take the chance?

5th Bangalore to Delhi flight
6th delhi to leh flight we reach by air to leh in the morning around 11 am
7th Leh to nubra and stay Night
8th nubra to leh and stay night
9th Leh to pangong and stay night
10th pangong to leh and stay night
11 th Leh to kargil ( can we cover it one day ) – yes even i thought same we will ride how much we can and come back , but if we want stay in kargil does it have cheap accommodation or drass is better.
12th leh to manali ( by taxi) if we leave by 12th night at least can we reach 13th aug evening to manaili.
14 th manali ( we want to para gliding so we need to go manali or can we get down some where in between and stay
and 14th aug night journey to Chandigarh to catch flight to Bangalore

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Rajabaksh August 2, 2017 - 2:35 pm

Please suggest 🙂

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Vargis.Khan August 2, 2017 - 3:26 pm

You are welcome.

Yes you need ILP for Nubra and Pangong. Shyok road was closed the last I heard. You can take it if it is open when you arrive in leh or else take the Wari La route.

Cheap accommodation in Kargil is not really available. Do not stay there, travel until Lamayuru from Leh and go back. Nothing really between Lamayuru and Kargil or in Kargil that stands out.

Yes if you leave on 12th, you will be back in Manali by 13th evening.

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Rajabaksh August 4, 2017 - 2:19 am

Sorry for late reply.
Thanks vargis bhai. Much appreciated

Vargis.Khan August 4, 2017 - 2:34 am

You are welcome Bhai

Praveen Heggeri June 28, 2017 - 8:11 am

will i get bullets for hire in leh

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Vargis.Khan June 28, 2017 - 3:03 pm

Yes you will

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Sahil Jain June 7, 2017 - 5:08 pm

Hi Mr.Vargis Khan
Thank you so much for such detailed insight . i was just checking out the rates for tents in pangong tso for my trip to ladakh. The tents seem to charge me 5K a night which is really steep as i am travelling alone and a little scared for the dearth of accommodation available online. Should i book a tent or will i get a cheaper accommodation there. Thank you sir

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Vargis.Khan June 7, 2017 - 5:39 pm

Hello Mr. Sahil Jain – Do not book in advance, they will definitely ask for a higher price if you call them. Just reach Pangong and negotiate a price on the spot, you will get a much lower rate this way.

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Sahil Jain June 11, 2017 - 7:35 pm

Thank you so much sir for your valuable feedback. I just had another question in mind regarding the transportation. Are there shared cabs available everyday or should i just take the bus and is there enough modes to come back to leh.

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Vargis.Khan June 12, 2017 - 9:05 pm

You are welcome Sahil Bhai. The bus that goes to Spangmik comes back the next day so you can travel by that. Shared taxis too ply on a regular basis daily in peak tourist season.

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Swaroop May 7, 2017 - 4:21 am

Hello Vargis,

Me and my wife are doing Leh from last week of June this year, we will be reaching to Pangong Tso on 3rd of July. I was wondering if you can let me know about
1. The camping sites at spangmik, which are right on the shore facing lake for some night photography.
2. Will those camping tents be available, if i don’t book in advance, as early July being the peak time of tourism.

Looking forward for your reply.

Thanks

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Vargis.Khan May 8, 2017 - 1:51 am

Hi Swaroop,

1. All the camp sites are facing the lake, perfect to capture some great shots at night as well. Do keep in mind that it will be way too cold at nights so ensure that you are carrying some gloves that allow you to operate the camera without taking them off. If you want to do some photography in peace at night without freezing, then prepare for cold accordingly.

2. No need to book in advance. Options these days are in plenty.

Once you are back, do not forget to share some of your shots brother.

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Rachana August 30, 2016 - 8:18 am

Hey Vargis,
A really great site for all the relevant info about Leh and Ladakh..

I am planning to travel solo in october (Flying in on 11th oct 2016) mostly on shoestring budget. I realise that it is late but that is the time I am getting off from work. The accommodations mentioned above, are they ok for solo female travellers? and if not will it help if i carry my tent ? will it be too cold for tents? And I am not too keen on carrying blankets etc with me everywhere, so can I borrow them from Chadar tents for money?

So could you please help me with accommodation info for solo women travellers in most of the places?

Thanks in advance,
Rachana

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nilesh August 9, 2016 - 1:04 pm

Hi , vargis khan i will be at pengong lake on 19th august with full family. (5 adult+1child age of 10). I want to stay 1 ngt ther. Plz suggest for accomodation. It will b ok for my family to stay in camp? Can i contact u on phone?
Waiting for ur reply.
Nilesh
9375965050

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Vargis.Khan August 10, 2016 - 1:30 am

There are plenty of camps available now at the lake Nilesh. You should not have a problem finding on that you like.

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Mehul Motiwale June 26, 2016 - 1:13 pm

Hello mr vargis khan…i am.mehul from mumbai..me and my frnda are coming to pangong lake on 12th of august for one night stay..i want to enquire about accomodatin facilities at pangong…can u pls call me on this no 9029737011 or mail me [email protected]..kindly mention your contact no in the mail
…waiting for ur reply

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Mritunjay May 16, 2016 - 4:55 am

Hi Vargiskhan, is it possible to get a room at pangong lake on 22nd june even if i dont book room in advance.

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Vargis.Khan May 18, 2016 - 2:27 am

Hi Mrityunjay – You do not have to make any bookings at all …. You will very easily find accommodation at Pangong. Unless you are talking about the only cemented hotel at Pangong which is booked months in advance. Hard to find accommodation in the hotel but at the camp sites you easily can.

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janak bhavsar April 13, 2016 - 7:56 pm

hi vargis khan, we are from mumbai traveling from 1st may by our ertiga car,with family and reaching srinagar approximately by 10th may it is advisabal to visit leh by road with our car, we are 6 person including 4 ladies,please guide us or we can get driver from srinagar.

regards- janak bhavsar

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Vargis.Khan April 15, 2016 - 6:32 pm

Janak – The biggest question that early in May would be whether or not the Srinagar Leh highway would be open and even if it is, roads would be in terrible conditions specially at Zoji la. Last year the highway opened on 15th May. I doubt if Ertiga is the right car to be travelling on that road at that time of the year with 6 people in it. You may want to postpone your plan for a little later.

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ABHISHEK GHOSH August 23, 2015 - 11:44 am

Hello,

I wish to know Is J&K buses goes upto Pangong lake ?

what time it reaches ?

where is Chadar Tents exactly ?

Thank you ,

Abhishek

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Vargis.Khan April 14, 2016 - 7:19 pm

Hello, Please read the following article regarding bus services in Leh. Chadar tents are right next to the lake. Hard to miss as they are in plenty.

https://vargiskhan.com/log/leh-bus-service-buses-ladakh/

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SAKET DHUMAL July 10, 2015 - 11:31 am

Hi..Mr. Vargiskhan,
Iam Saket Dhumal already planned my Leh-Ladakh trip with my friends. We are Six paxs & this is our first time to Leh-ladakh.
I am looking for a person who can guide us for this trip right from Sight seeing TO Accommodation. Actualy we are coming from NAGPUR(Maharastra). Will Land on Shrinagar on 18th Afternoon. From Shrinagar to Leh what is the convenient mode of travel to Leh. What are the places in between this routes, where should we stay in Night.
All this types of question are in my Mind. Kindly guide us to make our trip memorable. You can mail me on [email protected] OR What’s Up @ 08975845600/08605600888

Awaiting your valuable feedback.

With Warm Regards,

Saket Dhumal

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Vargis.Khan July 11, 2015 - 4:43 pm

Hi Saket, I have emailed you with my contact number. Please call me when convenient.

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vipin May 21, 2015 - 10:36 am

Thanks for the info buddy. Do you have any idea about the stay options at Tso – moriri ??

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Vargis.Khan May 21, 2015 - 11:59 pm

You are welcome Vipin. Please read the following post for Moriri

https://vargiskhan.com/log/accommodation-tso-moriri-along-route/

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S Kundu April 26, 2015 - 7:32 pm

I’m going there with my family in this June. Does electricity available at Camp Site(No 2)(specially for charging battery of camera)

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Vargis.Khan April 26, 2015 - 10:57 pm

Yes, you will be able to charge your cell phone / camera.

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Venkatesh August 22, 2014 - 6:04 am

Hi Vargiskhan, I am reading your excellent info on laddakh. My hearty congratulations to you on your informative website.

I need an advice. I have just 5 days to visit laddakh from 29th Sept till 3rd October. Can I do Leh – Tsomorori – Pangong – Leh. I plan to hire a 4 wheel drive or innova at Leh for the entire trip. Stay first day-overnight at Leh and 2 nights at Tsomorori and 1 night at pangong and return to Leh on 3rd. I am travelling alone. Should I consider visiting both Tsomorori and pangong in this short perio, or I should drop one of them. If I have to drop one of them and pick only one due to tight schedule, which one I should pick – Tsomorori or pangong. You advice will be helpful.

Warm regards.

Thanks in advance

Venkatesh

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Vargis.Khan August 22, 2014 - 12:01 pm

Hi Venkatesh, I am assuming you that are taking a flight to Leh. IT actually depends on what other places are you planning to visit. If you only intend to go to Pangong and Tso Moriri, then it can be done in 4 days however if you have other places on your itinerary, then it can be a little tough to squeeze in a trip to both lakes. If you have to drop one, you should pick Pangong. Its a much better deal than Moriri.

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