Pangong Tso (Lake) facts for kids
Pangong Tso (also called Pangong Lake) is an amazing lake high up in the Himalayas mountains. The word "Tso" means "lake" in the Ladakhi language. Imagine a lake so high that it's almost like being on top of the world! It sits at an elevation of about 4,250 meters (that's about 13,900 feet) above sea level.
This incredible lake is super long, stretching for about 134 kilometers (or 83.3 miles). It starts in a region called Ladakh and goes all the way into Tibet. Most of the lake, about two-thirds of its length, is actually in Tibet. At its widest point, Pangong Tso is about 5 kilometers (or 3 miles) across.
One of the coolest things about Pangong Tso is that even though its water is salty, the entire surface freezes solid during the winter! It's a truly unique natural wonder.
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Where is Pangong Tso located?
Pangong Tso is nestled high in the Himalayas, a famous mountain range in Asia. This beautiful lake crosses borders, starting in Ladakh, which is part of India, and extending into Tibet, which is part of China. It's a truly international lake!
How big is Pangong Tso?
Pangong Tso is a very long lake. It stretches for about 134 kilometers (that's roughly 83 miles). To give you an idea, that's like driving for more than an hour without stopping! The lake is also quite wide, reaching about 5 kilometers (or 3 miles) at its broadest point.
Why does it freeze in winter?
Even though Pangong Tso has salty water, it completely freezes over during the cold winter months. This happens because of its very high altitude and the extremely low temperatures in the Himalayas. It's a stunning sight to see the vast lake turn into a giant sheet of ice.
Amazing Views of Pangong Tso
Pangong Tso is famous for its stunning beauty. The water changes colors, from bright blue to green, depending on the time of day and the sunlight. The mountains around it add to the breathtaking scenery, making it a popular spot for visitors.