The Beauty of Yamdrok Lake

Yamdrok Lake is one of the four most important sacred lakes in Tibet, the one closest to the capital and the most frequently visited. Fan-shaped and opening toward the south, it stretches about 130 km from east to west and 70 km from north to south, covering an area of 638 km². It is the largest lake in southern Tibet. Its depth varies, and it is surrounded by mountains; its shoreline curves into bays and inlets that help create ever-changing landscapes.

A Sacred Lake

Tibetans regard lakes as sacred, just like mountains, as they are believed to be the abodes of protective deities and are therefore endowed with spiritual powers. Yamdrok Lake is believed to possess divinatory powers, which has made it a frequent destination for pilgrims. It is venerated as a talisman and considered part of the vital spirit of the Tibetan people. It is said that if its waters were to dry up, Tibet would no longer be habitable.

On a peninsula extending into the lake stands Samding Monastery, the only Tibetan monastery headed by a female reincarnation. Although it is not a nunnery, its abbess leads a community of around thirty monks and nuns. The monastery is famous as the residence of Dorje Pakmo, the only female lama in Tibet.

A Must-See Destination

Most tour groups traveling to Tibet include a visit to this lake. Travelers with limited time can make a one-day excursion from Lhasa, although it is far more rewarding to follow the entire shoreline along the famous Route 318, on the stretch between Lhasa and Gyantse. Route 318 is one of China’s most renowned highways, a favorite among drivers and motorcyclists. It extends for 5,476 km, running from Shanghai to the Nepalese border.

Highlights

When departing from Lhasa, after crossing the Yarlung Zangbo River, the road gradually climbs through gentle curves that offer constantly changing views, with the river receding farther below. Before reaching the Kamba-la Pass at 4,797 meters, which gives access to the lake basin, there is a viewpoint with spectacular vistas. Local residents often gather there with impressive Tibetan mastiffs and yaks, allowing tourists to take photographs with them.

Soon the first views of the lake appear. Travelers are captivated by its clear blue waters, set against distant snow-covered mountains reflected on the lake’s surface, most notably the perpetually snow-capped Nojin Kangsang peak, rising to 7,191 meters. This landscape, with its subtle variations, accompanies the traveler for much of the route toward Gyantse.

Stops Along the Way

Along the route there are several scenic points where visitors can stop to take photographs, some also offering yaks for a “typical Tibetan” picture. Along the shore lie a few villages that are slowly changing, where people largely continue to lead traditional lives. The lake is also renowned as a habitat for numerous species of migratory birds, and its waters are home to several endemic fish species. Our Tibet itineraries always include a visit to this lake.