Chang La Pass

About Chang La Pass

Among the repeated names of the high altitude passes in Ladakh, Chang La stands out because of its beauty and the remarkable thrill hiding in the trails. The pass is closely connected to Leh via Kharu and Sekti village by a tricky asphalt road. Travelers have shared their experience of climbing the pass as it is very steep and one must be very careful while drive up. The small streams appeared on the road during summer give more challenge to the adventure seekers coming here. Since the altitude difference, trekkers or climbers are advised not to stay at the top for more than 20 minutes otherwise the altitude sickness will be unpredictably severe.

The name Chang La means pass to the south and there are numerous stories have been told regarding the etymology of Chang La. The main story is related to Chang La Baba on whose name there is a temple at the pass. Tangste, a small town existing near the pass is the only inhabited region in the vicinity.

Chang La can be seen on your tour to Pangong Tso from Leh and the pass is recognized as the major gateway to the famous Changthang Plateau in the Himalayas.

Maximum altitude: 17586 feet is the measured height of Chang La Pass which seems to be a great height for trek lovers and bikers.

Best time to visit: The months from May to October is believed to be the suitable time to cross the pass since during winter the paths would be covered by thick snow.

How to reach: Chang La lies on the national highway 21 or the famous Leh-Manali highway. It is located on the road to Pangong Tso from Leh. You can reach the pass by bike, jeep or bus. It is thrilling to reach the pass by trekking.