The Sacred Waters of the Plateau
Plan My Trip →Tibet's lakes are among the most beautiful on Earth — vast sheets of turquoise, emerald, and deep blue set against the mountains at altitudes above 4,000 meters. Many are sacred to Tibetan Buddhism. This guide introduces the great lakes of Tibet.
The turquoise Yamdrok (Yamdrok Yumtso) is Tibet's most famous lake, seen from the Kamba La Pass on the road to Gyantse. Its fingers of blue water wind between the mountains, and pilgrims circle it clockwise on foot.
Namtso ('Heavenly Lake') at 4,718 meters is the world's highest large saltwater lake. Its vast stillness, Tashi Dor island, and the surrounding peaks make it a place of profound serenity. Overnight stays allow sunset and sunrise.
At the foot of Mount Kailash, the holy Manasarovar is sacred to Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and Bonpos. Its clear waters, the source of several great rivers, are a pilgrimage destination of immense spiritual significance.
Beyond the famous names lie the emerald lakes of the northern plateau, the salt flats of the west, and the glacial lakes of the eastern valleys. Each has its own color and character, rewarding the traveler who goes deeper.
The lakes are sacred — don't swim, leave no trace, and treat the sites with respect. Walk clockwise around the lakes as the pilgrims do. Photography is fine, but be discreet near religious ceremonies.
Yamdrok and Namtso are easily included in a central Tibet circuit (2-3 days). Manasarovar and the western lakes require a longer expedition (10+ days) with permits and 4WD. The lakes are most beautiful in May-June and September-October.