When we talk about Ladakh, the first images that come to mind are of majestic monasteries, high mountain passes, and the famous lakes like Pangong Tso and Tso Moriri. But Ladakh is home to several lesser-known high-altitude lakes that remain untouched by mass tourism, and one such breathtaking destination is Chilling Tso Lake at altitude of 16,430ft from sea level. Nestled in the remote Changthang region of southeastern Ladakh, Chilling Tso (also spelled Tsokar Chilling) is a small but stunningly beautiful lake that rewards travelers with solitude, pristine landscapes, and surreal views. This beautiful lake along with Ryul Tso lake (or Kyun Tso lake) is now easily accessible by newly built Hanle-Chumar-Tsomoriri road. Chilling Tso is about 4 sqkm lake and is higher than Pangong and Tso Moriri lakes. The lake mostly remains frozen from November to April due to altitude and extreme cold in the area. For those who love exploring offbeat Ladakh, away from the crowded tourist circuits, Chilling Tso is a dream come true. This article brings you a detailed travel guide to Chilling Tso Lake, Ladakh—covering its location, history, travel routes, best time to visit, permits, nearby attractions, and essential travel tips. Location of Chilling Tso Lake Chilling Tso is located in the Changthang plateau, close to the Indo–China border, at an altitude of about 5,010 meters (16,430 ft) above sea level. It lies in the southeastern corner of Ladakh, between Nyoma and Hanle, two of the most famous remote settlements in the region. As Border Roads Organisation (BRO) has built Hanle-Chumar road via Salsa La pass that further connects to Tso Moriri, this road also connects the twin lakes of Chilling Tso Lake and Ryul Tso Lake (Kyun Tso Lake). This road is now open for tourists. The lake is relatively small compared to Pangong or
When we talk about Ladakh, the first images that come to mind are of majestic monasteries, high mountain passes, and the famous lakes like Pangong Tso and Tso Moriri. But Ladakh is home to several lesser-known high-altitude lakes that remain untouched by mass tourism, and one such breathtaking destination is Chilling Tso Lake at altitude
The 91-km-long Hanle-Chumar road has been thrown open for tourists. Chumar (Chumur), a nomadic village and a strategic point for Indian Army, is very close to India-China border. Tourists can now travel from Hanle to Tso Moriri lake via Chumar and Salsa La pass. This new road journey through the beautiful landscapes will become a new tourist attraction. The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) has completed the construction of this road and the road is now black topped. The road starting from Hanle passes through Salsa La pass, Ryul Tso lake, Chilling Tso Lake, and Chumar (Chumur) before reaching Tso Moriri lake. According to Indian Army, "A 91 km road connecting Hanle to the border village of Chumar (Chumur) constructed by the Border Roads Organisation has been opened for the public in Ladakh. The route traverses extreme high altitudes from 14,500 to 17,200 feet, including the high Salsa La Pass." It further states that the road while providing strategic connectivity for the Armed Forces along the borders, will also facilitate local connectivity and tourism in the region by connecting attractions including Hanle Observatory, Kyun Tso Lake, Chilling Tso Lake and onward to Tso Moriri. "The road stands as a significant achievement in strategic infrastructure development, enhancing operational readiness, promoting tourism and boosting socio-economic growth in Ladakh’s remote areas." HANLE–CHUMAR ROAD OPENS FOR THE PUBLIC A 91 km road connecting Hanle to the border village of Chumar constructed by #ProjectHimank of the Border Roads Organisation, #BRO has been opened for the Public in Ladakh. The route traverses extreme high altitudes from 14,500 to 17,200… pic.twitter.com/C9uNfLAiBg — ADG PI - INDIAN ARMY (@adgpi) September 23, 2025 Alternative connectivity between Hanle and Tso Moriri This road has provided alternate connectivity to both Tso Moriri lake and Hanle. Now people, including tourists can travel from
The 91-km-long Hanle-Chumar road has been thrown open for tourists. Chumar (Chumur), a nomadic village and a strategic point for Indian Army, is very close to India-China border. Tourists can now travel from Hanle to Tso Moriri lake via Chumar and Salsa La pass. This new road journey through the beautiful landscapes will become a
