Top Three Sacred Lakes in Tibet

On this mysterious land, lakes and mountains are the most sacred sites among all Tibetan people. Those Buddhist pilgrims will take journey to those sites to pray and meditate. There are three lakes that are considered the most sacred, namely Lake Yamdrok, Lake Namtso and Lake Manasarovar.

Lake Yamdrok

As the most accessible lake from Lhasa, Lake Yamdrok is impossible for tourists to miss. About a 2.5-hour drive from Lhasa, the lake is there waiting for everyone to meet her. It looks like a beautiful picture of a plateau lake with a sunny sky, snow-capped mountains, wildlife and temples. It is a gift for all people who come to see it since the lake will be perfect to be viewed all year round. No matter you are standing near the lake, or you are overlooking the lake on the observation deck, you will be able to enjoy the unique scenery of this sacred lake.

Lake Namtso

As the largest saltwater lake in Tibet, Lake Namtso enjoys an elevation of 4,718 meters. What's more, it is also the world's highest saltwater lake. Standing on the shores of Lake Namtso, you will find yourself surrounded by the Nyenchen Tanglha Mountains and vast grasslands. And tourists can also feel peaceful inside the lake when they see the herdsmen and sheep in the distance. It deserves the name "heavenly lake" since the five islands inside the lake were used as a summer spiritual retreat for some pilgrims.

Lake Manasarovar

Considered one of the most sacred sites in Tibet, Lake Manasarovar is revered by Buddhists and Hindus. It is situated in western Ngari Prefecture and near Mount Kailash. Many pilgrimages that circumambulate Mount Kailash will choose Lake Manasarovar as the starting point. It is said that the holy waters of the lake can wash away all sins, which is the reason why pilgrims will bathe with the water after the trek. Just sitting next to the lake, tourists will feel like entering a serene world where they can find a sense of peace.