Top 5 Sacred Lakes to Visit in Tibet

Tibet is home to some of the most breathtaking lakes on earth. But beyond their beauty, these lakes are also sacred in Tibetan culture, believed to be the dwelling places of deities and spirits. Here, we've picked the top 5 sacred lakes that are most worth visiting in your Tibet journey.

1. Lake Yamdrok – The Closest Lake to Lhasa

If you can only visit one lake in Tibet, or if it's your first time here, Lake Yamdrok is the one to see. It's only about two hours driving from Lhasa, so it's easy to reach and a perfect choice for a short trip. We recommend Lake Yamdrok not only because it is close to Lhasa, but also because it is one of the most beautiful lakes in Tibet.

Lake Yamdrok

From Gambala Pass, you'll find the lake appears like a long turquoise ribbon winding through mountains. If the weather is clear, the water will shift between shades of blue and green when the sunlight changes, creating a view that feels almost unreal. Down by the shore, you can see yaks graze quietly, lambs wander through the grass, and seagulls glide across the still surface.

You can stop to take photos, feed the birds, or try a short yak ride beside the lake. If you prefer something more peaceful, you can enjoy a simple picnic offered by us on the grassland, have delicious snacks and fruits with beautiful lake side view.

Picnic around Lake Yamdrok

We suggest you coming on a day trip from Lhasa, visiting the lake in the morning and returning by evening. You can also continue toward Shigatse and Everest Base Camp with a stop at the Karola Glacier, just an hour and a half away. If you want to see the true beauty of Lake Yamdrok, see our 5-Day Lhasa Classics and Lake Yamdrok Tour.

2. Lake Namtso – The Highest Big Lake in the World

If you want to see the more expansive scenery of plateau, you shouldn't miss Lake Namtso. Sitting at an altitude of 4,718 meters, Lake Namtso is the highest lake in Tibet, often called the "Heavenly Lake". Because of the high altitude, you'll feel very close to the sky.

Lake Namtso

The lake's deep sapphire color, endless horizon, almost like a sea more than a lake, and the snow-capped Nyenchen Tanglha Mountains in the distance create a grand view. Fewer tourists visit here than at Yamdrok Lake, giving it a sense of tranquil seclusion.

You can take a short walk around Tashi Peninsula or climb one of the small hills to enjoy a panoramic view of the lake and surrounding peaks. This is where you will truly feel the vastness and purity of the Tibetan Plateau. 

From Lhasa, it takes around 4–5 hours to reach Namtso by car, so we suggest planning a 2-day trip to visit the lake. You can spend the night in Damxung and watch the sunset and sunrise of Lake Namtso.

There are several lake shores in different directions to choose, with the best views on the north and south shores. We suggest visiting the south shore because it offers the best balance of scenery and accessibility. Know more about Lake Namtso in our Namtso Travel Guide.

3. Lake Manasarovar – The Clearest Holy Lake

If you plan to do the Mount Kailash kora, wish to go on a pilgrimage or hike, this sacred lake is a must-visit. It lies quietly at the base of Mount Kailash (distance about 50 km) in western Tibet, and has the most transparent water among all the lakes in China. Fewer visitors reach this remote area, making the lake a peaceful place to experience Tibet's spiritual side.

Lake Manasarovar

When you stand by the shore, you can see Mount Kailash reflected on the lake's surface, the air feels pure, and the silence is deep. There is a sense of calm and connection that is hard to find elsewhere.

Around the lake, you can visit Chiu Gompa, perched high on a cliff, for sweeping views of both the lake and the mountain. Or head to Chugu Gompa on the southern shore for the best photo spot where Kailash rises behind the lake.

After visiting the lake, spend a night in nearby Baga Township to rest and get used to the altitude before heading for the Mount Kailash trek. We suggest combining Lake Manasarovar with a visit to nearby Lake Rakshastal or Mount Kailash for a complete journey through western Tibet's sacred landscape. Check our 14-Day Tibet Tour with Mt. Kailash and Lake Manasarovar.

4. Lake Rakshastal – The Mysterious "Ghost Lake" beside Manasarovar

If you're looking for somewhere different and off the beaten path, we suggest visiting Lake Rakshastal. Unlike most lakes in Tibet, its deep-blue waters and vast emptiness create a haunting beauty, like standing at the edge of the universe.

Lake Rakshastal

Rakshastal, or Lhanag Tso, known in Tibetan as the "Poisoned Black Lake", it's a saltwater lake at 4,574 m, neither people nor animals can drink its water. With no plants or livestock around, the barren shores feel lifeless and eerie, earning it the nickname "Ghost Lake". 

Lake Rakshastal sits just 5 km west of Lake Manasarovar, yet it offers a striking contrast. While Manasarovar shines with calm, pure water, Rakshastal is darker and wilder. The two lakes sit side by side yet could not be more different, one symbolizing light and peace, the other mystery and power.

If you plan to visit Mount Kailash and Lake Manasarovar, don't forget to visit Rakshastal. Seeing the two lakes together shows the magical power of nature on the Tibetan Plateau.

5. Lake Basomtso – The Hidden Gem in Nyingchi

If you want to see the beautiful lake at lower altitude, Lake Basomtso in Nyingchi is well worth the journey. It is unique for close snow mountains with forests all around. 

Basomtso

The snow mountains here seems taller and closer to the lake, surrounding the turquoise water like they are holding a green emerald. The water is so clear that you can see fish swimming beneath the surface. Around the lake, dense forests cover the slopes, adding layers of green that stay lush all year.

The small island in the middle of the lake is a popular spot for photos, but the real beauty lies deeper in the valley. With a private car, you can reach Xincuo, a quieter area where few visitors go. Here, you can walk along the lakeshore, surrounded by untouched nature, and see herds of yaks move slowly across the stony beach.

Want to experience the serene atmosphere of Lake Basomtso? You can check out our 7-Day Lhasa, Nyingchi, and Bome Tour.

Tailor Make Your Tour to the Lakes

If you are interested in traveling to one of the lakes above, you can tailor-make your own unique tour by telling us your interests and requirements. We will help you design a perfect trip.

See the following popular Tibet tours for inspiration:

• 13-Days Beijing–Xi'an–Lhasa-Shanghai Private Tour
• 11-Day Overland Trip from Lhasa to Kathmandu
• 10-Days Beijing-Lhasa-Shanghai
• 4-Days Lhasa Highlights Comfort Tour

You can also contact us to create a Tibet tour for you.