Ladakh’s Pangong Tso is the venue for India’s first frozen lake marathon

Marathons are demanding enough, but when you add slippery ice to the mix, things get trickier. Yet, some athletes take up the challenge willingly—frozen lake marathons are commonplace in Scandinavian countries like Norway. Now, the phenomenon has made its way to India. On February 20, the country will host its first-ever frozen lake marathon at Ladakh’s Pangong Tso lake.

With Lukung as its starting point, the 21-kilometre run will end at Maan village. Seventy-five athletes from India and abroad are participating in the marathon, and with Pangong’s elevation of 13,862 feet, will make a bid for a Guinness world record for running the world’s highest frozen lake marathon.

Pangong Tso lake is one of the region's most popular attractions—its ultramarine waters flanked by the stark Ladakhi mountains featured in the Bollywood movies 3 Idiots, Jab Tak Hai Jaan, and countless others. Its frozen avatar is just as dramatic—with the salt water lake recording temperatures of minus 30 degrees during peak winter. 

If you’re an adventure enthusiast and want to trek to other icy lakes across India, then read ahead. 

Tsomoriri Lake, Ladakh

Situated at a mind-boggling altitude of 14,835 feet and spread over 120 square kilometres, Tsomoriri lake in Ladakh is the largest high-altitude lake in India. It stays frozen from January to March, so if you’re looking to catch a glimpse of the lake in all its icy glory, this time period is the best. But remember that due to its proximity to the Line of Actual Control, you’ll require a special Inner Line Permit for the trip. During summer, the lake attracts wildlife like wolves, migratory birds, and more. 

Roopkund Lake, Uttarakhand

A trekker-favourite, Roopkund Lake in Uttarakhand is nestled between formidable snow-capped mountains and surrounded by lush forests at an elevation of 15,000 feet. It was first discovered by a British soldier in 1942, and is today known for being shrouded in mystery. The reason? During the summer months, when the ice thaws, you can see skeletons, which are allegedly 500 to 800-years-old, strewn around the water body. Unnerving skeletons aside, the lake is charming as ever when frozen over. 

Gurudongmar Lake, Sikkim 

More often than not, water bodies in India are given a spiritual connection, and the mesmerising Gurudongmar lake in Sikkim is no different—the lake is considered to have healing properties. Located at an altitude of 16,909 feet, it features on the list of the '15 highest lakes in the world' and is also the second-highest in India. During warmer months, tourists bottle up its glacial water to take back home. 

Cholamu Lake, Sikkim 

This lake in Sikkim is a sight to behold when frozen, with the ice reflecting the surrounding mountain ranges. With an elevation of 18,000 feet above sea level, it has earned the status of the highest freshwater lake in India. Since it is close to the Tibetan border, a special permit from the army and the Sikkim police is needed to visit the lake. 

Lead image: Still from Jab Tak Hai Jaan