Chang La is a high mountain pass in Ladakh region of Jammu and Kashmir. It is claimed to be the second highest motorable road in the world, which is either Merisimik La or Mana pass.

Geography of Chang La
Chang La is approached from Leh in Jammu and Kashmir via Kharu and Sekti village by an asphalt road. The climb to Chang La is very steep and requires a careful drive. During the summer months, specifically in the tourist season, small streams appear across the road, making the climb a challenge for the bikers. The descent from Chang La towards Tangtse or Darbuk is again very steep. It is advisable to not stay at the top for more than 20-25 minutes as it could be detrimental to health owing to its high altitude.

Route of Chang La
Chang La is on the route to Pangong Lake from Leh District of Jammu and Kashmir. Pangong Tso is the high grassland lake in Jammu and Kashmir. It is also referred to as Pangong Lake. It is an endorheic lake in the Himalayan Mountain Range in India, situated at a height of about 4,350 m (14,270 ft). It is 134 km long and extends from India to China. Approximately 60 percent of the length of the lake lies in China. The lake is 5 km wide at its broadest point. All together it covers 604 square kilometers.

Naming of Chang La
The name Chang La literally means "Pass towards the South" or "Pass in the South". It is falsely claimed that the pass is named after the supposed Hindu hermit Changla Baba. It is a myth propagated by the dedication of a temple at the pass to the supposed Changla Baba.

Gateway of Changthang Plateau
Changla Pass is the main gateway for the Changthang Plateau situated in the Himalayan Mountain Range in India.

Tribal Settlement near Changthang Plateau
The nomadic tribes of Changthang Plateau are collectively known as the Changpa or Chang-pa. The world"s highest research station, established by the Defence Research and Development Organization is functional in Chang La at a height of 17,500 ft.

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