अक्सर पूछे जाने वाले प्रश्न (FAQs)
What is the official elevation of Chang La Pass?
Chang La stands at an elevation of 5,360 metres (17,585 feet) above mean sea level, making it the third-highest motorable mountain pass in Ladakh and India.
How far is Chang La from Leh and Pangong Lake?
Chang La is located approximately 75 kilometres east of Leh (about a 3-hour drive) and roughly 85 kilometres west of Pangong Tso (Spangmik village).
Is Chang La open during the winter months?
Yes, BRO Project Himank maintains Chang La year-round as a strategic military lifeline, although civilian transit may be halted for several hours or days following heavy snowfalls.
Do I need a special permit to visit Chang La?
Yes, an Inner Line Permit (ILP) for Indian citizens or a Protected Area Permit (PAP) for foreign nationals is mandatory to cross Chang La toward Pangong Tso.
Why is Chang La considered more difficult than Khardung La?
While slightly lower in elevation, Chang La receives heavier snowfall, features steeper and rougher switchbacks cut through loose moraine, and has more active afternoon water crossings than Khardung La.