Ladakh
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3 Days in Pangong Lake for a Food Trip
Pangong Lake isn't just about the stunning blue waters—it's also a hidden gem for food lovers. Over three days, you'll taste the best of Ladakhi flavors, from hearty thukpa to buttery butter tea, all while soaking in the breathtaking views. I've spent countless evenings here, sharing meals with locals and discovering the simple yet delicious dishes that make this place special.
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Day 1
Day 1 at Pangong Lake
Start your adventure with the breathtaking beauty of Pangong Lake, exploring its shores, enjoying local flavors, and soaking in the serene landscapes.
Activities
Sunrise at Pangong Lake
Wake up early to catch the sunrise over Pangong Lake, where the colors shift from deep blues to shimmering golds. The quiet morning hours offer the best light for photography and a peaceful moment to take in the scenery.
- Dress in layers—mornings are chilly even in summer.
- Carry a thermos with hot tea or coffee for warmth.
Breakfast with a View
Head to a lakeside café or homestay for a hearty Ladakhi breakfast. Try butter tea, apricot jam with local bread, and scrambled eggs with fresh herbs while gazing at the lake.
- Ask for 'gur-gur cha' (butter tea) for an authentic taste.
- Homestays often serve fresher, homemade meals compared to tourist cafés.
Lakeside Walk & Birdwatching
Stroll along the lake’s edge, spotting migratory birds like brahminy ducks or bar-headed geese. The calm waters and surrounding mountains make for a relaxing walk with plenty of photo ops.
- Wear sturdy shoes—some paths are rocky.
- Binoculars enhance the birdwatching experience.
Must Try Foods
Transportation
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Day 2
Pangong Lake Local Flavors
Dive deeper into the local culture and flavors around Pangong Lake, with a mix of scenic spots and authentic Ladakhi experiences.
Activities
Visit Spangmik Village
Spangmik is the largest village near Pangong Lake, offering a glimpse into traditional Ladakhi life. Walk through its narrow lanes, interact with friendly locals, and check out the small monasteries and prayer flags fluttering in the wind. The village also has some of the best views of the lake from a slightly elevated perspective.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven paths.
- Respect local customs—ask before taking photos of people.
Ladakhi Homemade Lunch
Skip the touristy cafes and head to a local family’s home in Spangmik for an authentic Ladakhi meal. You’ll likely enjoy dishes like thukpa (noodle soup), momos (dumplings), and butter tea, all made with love and local ingredients. It’s a great way to connect with the culture and hear stories from the hosts.
- Ask your homestay host to arrange this in advance.
- Try the butter tea—it’s an acquired taste but a must-experience!
Sunset at Merak Village
A short drive from Spangmik, Merak is a quieter village with stunning sunset views over Pangong Lake. The colors reflecting off the water are magical, and the peaceful atmosphere is a perfect way to end the day. You might even spot some nomadic herders with their pashmina goats.
- Bring a jacket—it gets chilly after sunset.
- Stay quiet to avoid disturbing wildlife like migratory birds.
Must Try Foods
Transportation
Day 3
Hidden Gems of Pangong Lake
A slower-paced day diving into lesser-known spots and cultural experiences around Pangong Lake, with a focus on local life and flavors.
Activities
Morning Tea with Nomads
Start your day with a rare opportunity to share butter tea and stories with Changpa nomads near Spangmik. These high-altitude herders live in traditional yak-hair tents and are some of the last keepers of Ladakh's nomadic traditions. Watch as they milk their pashmina goats - the source of Kashmir's famous wool.
- Bring small gifts like dried fruit or biscuits
- Ask permission before photographing
Lakeside Rock Art Hunt
Explore Pangong's lesser-known eastern shore where ancient petroglyphs hide among the boulders. Local guides can point out 1,000-year-old carvings of ibex, Buddhist symbols, and hunting scenes left by traders on the old Silk Route. The best are near a seasonal waterfall about 3km from Merak.
- Wear sturdy shoes for scrambling over rocks
- Bring water - no shops in this area
Sunset Kitchen Party
End your trip helping cook dinner at a family-run lakeside camp. Learn to make skyu (Ladakhi pasta stew) in a makeshift tandoor, then enjoy your meal around a bonfire with folk songs. The hosts might even break out some local barley beer if you're lucky.
- Dress warmly - nights get chilly
- Try kneading dough at altitude - it's harder than it looks!