Chanthang Plateau is one of the highest inhabited lands in the world with an average elevation varying from 4,200 to 5,000m. Some of the most splendid natural settings known to mankind are seen on this plateau. Chanthang can be accessed by the route going over the
Tanglang La Pass (5,700 m) to the southeast of
Leh or by the route which takes one over the Chang La pass (5,900 m), to the northeast of Leh.
Chanthang Plateau has extremely dry climate. At places, the snowline may be as high as 6,600 m and snowfall is scanty. During day time the temperature becomes very hot and at night it plummets to below freezing point even in the middle of summer.
Chanthang Plateau is inhabited by the Changpas who dwell in tents made of yak and goat hair, which provide them shelter even in the harsh winter months.
