About Chang La
Chang La is a high mountain pass in Ladakh, India, located on the route connecting Leh to Pangong Lake via Sakti and Tangtse. Situated at an elevation of about 5,360 metres (17,590 feet), it is among the world's highest motorable passes. Maintained by the Border Roads Organisation, the pass is known for its snow-covered terrain, prayer flags, the Chang La Baba Temple, and panoramic Himalayan views, serving as a key transit point for tourists heading to Pangong Tso.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect a high-altitude mountain pass covered in snow for much of the year, adorned with colorful prayer flags and surrounded by stark Himalayan peaks. At the top is the small Chang La Baba Temple and an Indian Army cafeteria/tea point where travelers stop briefly for tea and rest. The area is windy, cold and has very thin air. There is a parking area along the Leh-Pangong road for photos and short walks, but facilities are minimal and visitors typically make a brief stop en route to Pangong Lake.
Key highlights
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One of the world's highest motorable passes at approximately 5,360 metres (17,590 feet) above sea level
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Chang La Baba Temple revered by army personnel and travelers at the pass summit
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Panoramic views of snow-covered Himalayan ranges and prayer flag-draped landscape
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Key transit point on the scenic Leh to Pangong Tso route via Sakti and Tangtse
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Army-run cafeteria offering hot tea and refreshments at extreme altitude
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Maintained by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) with memorial and signage at the top
History of Chang La
Chang La is a strategically important high pass on the historic route between Leh and the Changthang region, now maintained by the Border Roads Organisation. The pass is named after Changla Baba, a sadhu after whom the temple at the summit is dedicated. The temple is maintained by the Indian Army and is associated with local belief in the baba's protection for travelers crossing the pass.
Culture & Context
The Chang La Baba Temple at the summit holds cultural and spiritual significance for army personnel and travelers, who offer prayers for safe passage. The pass is decorated with Buddhist prayer flags, reflecting Ladakhi Buddhist traditions of marking high passes for good fortune.