Yamdrok Lake

羊卓雍措

One of Tibet's three holiest lakes, renowned for its stunning turquoise-blue waters that shift colors throughout the day and changing seasons. Located at 4,441 meters, the jade-like lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains is a breathtaking stop on the Lhasa-Shigatse route.

Things to do

• Lakeside Photography at Yamdrok Viewpoint — Capture the lake's famous turquoise waters and their color shifts from the main overlook on the Lhasa-Shigatse highway, best visited at different times of day for varying light conditions.
• Kamba La Pass Trek — Hike to the 4,794-meter pass overlooking Yamdrok Lake, offering panoramic views of the entire body of water surrounded by snow-capped peaks.
• Circumambulation Walk — Walk sections of the 115-kilometer circuit around the lake's perimeter, a spiritual practice for pilgrims that can be done in shorter segments by casual visitors.
• Nangartse Town Visit — Explore the small Tibetan town on the lake's eastern shore to experience local life, visit traditional markets, and find basic accommodation and local eateries.
• Yamdrok Hydroelectric Station Tour — Visit the modern facility that harnesses the lake's waters, offering insight into contemporary Tibetan infrastructure and energy development.
• Sunrise Observation at Lakeside — Wake early to witness how the morning light transforms the lake's color from deep indigo to brilliant turquoise, a rewarding experience for photographers.

Food to try

• Tibetan Yak Butter Tea (po cha) — A creamy, salty beverage made from yak butter, tea leaves, and salt that provides essential calories and warmth at high altitude, traditionally served throughout the day.
• Momo (Tibetan Dumplings) — Steamed or fried dumplings filled with yak meat or vegetables, a staple found in guesthouses and small restaurants around Yamdrok Lake.
• Tingmo (Tibetan Bread) — Soft, steamed wheat bread often served with spicy meat stews, providing filling sustenance for visitors at this high altitude.
• Yak Cheese and Dried Curds — Local dairy products sold by roadside vendors and in Nangartse, offering authentic high-altitude provisions and memorable souvenirs.
• Thukpa (Tibetan Noodle Soup) — Hearty noodle soup with vegetables and yak meat broth, warming and energizing for visitors adjusting to the 4,441-meter elevation.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect Sacred Circumambulation — Pilgrims walk clockwise around the lake as a spiritual practice; stay aware and give way to these visitors, never walk counter-clockwise as it is considered disrespectful.
• Altitude Acclimatization Essential — At 4,441 meters, allow at least one day for your body to adjust before strenuous activities, stay hydrated, and consider altitude sickness medication if prone to it.
• Prayer Flags and Stone Cairns — Do not disturb mani stones, prayer flags, or cairns; if you wish to add a stone or touch these sacred objects, do so respectfully with good intentions.
• Limited Services and Weather Variability — Bring extra supplies, warm clothing, and rain gear as the lake's weather changes rapidly and services are minimal outside Nangartse; roads can be affected by sudden storms.