A journey from Nubra Valley to Pangong Lake has been described as one of the most memorable journeys for anyone touring Ladakh. The drive has remote villages, breathtaking mountains, and unparalleled views of the landscape and terrain. The road is one of the highest and most challenging to drive.
The drive is as much about the adventure as it is about the destination. The drive has some of the most captivating views of the timeless and untamed landscapes of India. One of the best stretches of drives is the part that follows the Shyok River. There are even some streams that need to be crossed to add to the adventure.
This guide will try to add a little structure to the journey and help plan the road trip to Nubra Valley and Pangong Lake. It will cover the distance, routes, time of travel, best time to travel, condition of the road, accommodation, time of the travel, travel permits, and road trip to Pangong Lake.
Overview of the distance from Nubra Valley to Pangong Lake
Depending on the routes taken, the distance from Nubra Valley to Pangong Lake will be different. There are no direct highways and no two routes are the same. Each route presents a different set of challenges.
Via the Shyok route, it’s around 160–170 km, while passing through Leh (Khardung La & Chang La), it’s around 220–230 km. The Shyok route is shorter and more scenic, although it’s more unpredictable than the Leh route, which is longer, road-wise more certain, and expands travel time and fatigue.
Route Options Between Nubra Valley and Pangong Lake
There are two main routes between Nubra Valley and Pangong Lake. Your choice depends on the weather and your driving experience.
1. Nubra – Shyok – Durbuk – Pangong Lake
This is the most popular route among travelers today.
Route details:
Diskit / Hunder → Agham → Shyok → Durbuk → Tangtse → Pangong Lake
Why choose this route?
– Shorter distance
– Most scenic drive along the Shyok River
– No major high passes
Challenges:
– Roads rough, temporarily closed, or multiple seasonal water crossings
– Requires daylight travel and good weather
This is the best route if you’re a confident driver and have the most up to date information about the local roads.
2. Nubra – Khardung La – Chang La – Pangong Lake
This route takes you back to Leh before continuing the journey from Leh to Pangong Lake.
Route Information:
Nubra Valley → Khardung La → Leh → Chang La → Pangong Lake
Why take this route?
Roads are generally have better quality
This route is more helpful for drivers visiting ladakh for the first time
Usually gets better driving weather
Potential Disadvantages:
Naturally the farthest route
Two very extreme high passes have to be crossed (Chang La & Khardung La)
Longer drive due to the high level changes causing fatigue
Travel time from Nubra Valley to Pangong Lake
Travel time is very difficult to estimate due to weather conditions and documents on the road
Via Leh: 9 to 10 hours
Via Shyok: 6 to 8 hours
Delays are to be expected, always keep buffer time do not drive after dark
Best time for Nubra Valley to Pangong Lake Trip
June to September is the best time for this trip
June to July
Temperatures are nice and the roads are open
Due to high snow levels, water crossings may be unavoidable July to early August
August to September
Roads have improved and water crossings have decreased
Avoid October and May to September for trip as the weather will pose risks to the trip
Driving Conditions
Driving tips:
- Bumpy roads do exist on this routeUseful tips for driving in Nubra valley
- Pick an SUV/higher ground clearance vehicle
- Start driving when it is still dark for a better chance of getting across rivers.
- Stay consistent and drive slow
- Bring spare fuel, food, water, and meds
- Download maps to your device and share your itinerary with someone
Drivers can also get altitude sickness, so make sure you acclimatize to it before starting the drive.
Travel permits Needed For Nubra Valley to Pangong Lake
You will need an Inner Line Permit (ILP) to travel between Nubra Valley to Pangong Lake.
Important Information
These permits are needed for Pangong Lake Tso, Nubra Valley, and Shyok.
They can be applied for online or at the DC office in Leh
Bring a few photocopies of the permits for the various checkpoints that are along the route.
International travelers will need additional permits and must adhere to the mandated travel routes.
Where to Stay Around Pangong Lake?
You get the best view of the changing colors of Pangong Lake when you stay the night.
You can stay in tented camps in Pangong Lake, MAN, or Merak
There are also simple guesthouses run by locals.
Services are basic and don’t expect too much. There is a low level of electricity, and you will probably lose mobile service at some point. It can get really cold at night, even during summer.
Who Should Travel From Nubra Valley To Pangong Lake?
Suitable For:
Adventure travelers and photographers
Skillful drivers, riders, and bikers
Travelers that have adjusted to Ladakh’s high altitude
Not Suitable For:
Mountain drivers with no experience
Travelers that experience high altitude sickness
Travelers that need to stick to a strict timeline
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the distance from Nubra Valley to Pangong Lake?
It is between 160 to 230 Km depending on how you choose to travel.
2. How long does it take to travel from Nubra Valley to Pangong Lake?
Traveling through the Shyok route is generally a 6-8 hour journey. Traveling through the Leh route is generally a 9-10 hour journey.
3. What is the best travel route from Nubra Valley to Pangong Lake?
Nubra to Pangong via Shyok is the best travel route as it is the most scenic and generally the shortest route. However, it is not recommended to take this route if the weather is not favorable.
4. Is an Inner Line Permit required for this route?
Yes, Indian citizens must obtain an Inner Line Permit to travel this route.
5. Is the Nubra to Pangong route safe?
Yes, it is generally safe to travel this route, especially at the start of the tourism season. However, travelers must be cautious to avoid rough patches and water crossings.
Q6. Is camping possible at Pangong Lake after the road trip?
Sure! There are lots of guesthouses and camps around the lake that offer overnight stays.