Puga Hot Springs
A geothermal valley north of Tso Moriri, with hot springs, sulphur vents and borax deposits. Changpa nomads camp here in summer.
Puga Valley lies between Sumdo and Pologongka La at about 4,400 m. It is one of India’s best-known geothermal fields. Steaming springs, yellow sulphur crystals and white borax deposits are scattered across the valley floor, and the Indian government has tested geothermal power generation here. Next to it, the Puga wetland is a feeding ground for black-necked cranes and migratory birds. In summer you may see the black yak-hair tents of Changpa nomads. Most people stop for half an hour to an hour on the Tso Moriri–Tso Kar loop. The water is very hot, so never touch the springs directly or step on the soft ground around them.
Opening hours
All day