Visitors need a permit from the Ladakh administration and follow strict Covid-19 protocols

Pangong Tso in Ladakh has been reopened to tourists after it was declared off limits due to Covid-19 restrictions and the standoff between Indian and Chinese troops along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) nearly eight month ago.

The world’s highest saltwater lake, Pangong Tso is also one of the most popular tourist destinations in Ladakh. The LAC runs through the lake, with one-third of its area in Indian territory and the rest under Chinese control.

On January 10, the Ladakh tourism department began issuing Inner Line Permits online for tourists who wish to visit the region.

In addition to obtaining a permit, tourists are also required to comply with strict Covid-19 guidelines.

Asymptomatic tourists without Covid-19 negative certificates can enter the Union Territory, according to the official tourism website of the Leh administration.

However, they should have a booking of at least seven days in a hotel. They will have to stay within the premises of the same hotel for a week. After seven days, they are allowed to visit public places across the state.

The guideline also mentions that those with a negative report, that is not earlier than 72 hours, can visit all public places and destinations across Ladakh without restrictions.

What you need to know before visiting Pangong Tso

The Ladakh administration has made it easier for people to access their inner line permit by visiting lahdclehpermit.in

The administration has stated that it will be provided to anyone who applies within a day.

It is important to note that tourists who fail to carry the permit, will not be allowed beyond the security check-posts.

Due to bad weather conditions, the only way to reach the region is by taking a flight to Leh.