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Visit Zhegu Lake to enjoy its serene beauty and pristine waters. Take a walk around the lake to appreciate the surrounding mountains and alpine landscape. Enjoy boating or fishing, and take in the peaceful atmosphere of the area. The surrounding trails also offer scenic hiking opportunities.
The Zhegu Lake Scenic Area is a scenic spot that combines snow-capped mountains, grasslands, lakes, and wildlife. The lake covers approximately 70 square kilometers, with an average depth of approximately 20 meters and clear water. A variety of plateau fish thrive in the lake. In summer, after the lake thaws, flocks of birds, primarily the plateau yellow duck, feed on the lake's surface. The vast grasslands surrounding the lake are both a beautiful sight and a prime grazing area for local herders, where cattle and horses thrive.
Suitable for all seasons;
The plateau has a semi-arid monsoon climate, with a short, cool warm season and a long, cold cold season. The four seasons are distinct, with little precipitation. There is more night rain in the summer half of the year, and the rainfall is unevenly distributed.
It is recommended to play for 1-3 hours;
The scenic area has a panoramic view of lakes and mountains. In front of you can see the continuous snow-capped mountains. The mountains rise and fall like a giant dragon dancing, and against the setting sun, it is very spectacular.
free
Open all day
Zhegu Lake is located in the Tibetan region of Shannan Prefecture, known for its stunning natural beauty and sacred significance. The lake is surrounded by snow-capped peaks, and is an important ecological area with abundant wildlife and rich biodiversity. It also holds cultural significance for local Tibetan communities, often associated with Tibetan Buddhism and nature worship.
Zhegu Lake is located in the Shannan Prefecture, Tibet, approximately 120 kilometers south of Lhasa. The best way to get there is by taxi or private car from Lhasa, as public transportation options are limited. The route involves traveling on a paved road, followed by a short hike to reach the lake.
The Zhegu Lake is open year-round. The best time to visit is from May to October when the weather is mild and the surrounding nature is at its most vibrant. Winter visits can be cold, but they offer a peaceful, snow-covered landscape.
The entrance fee is approximately ¥60 to ¥80. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance of the scenic area, though there are limited options for online booking. It’s advisable to buy tickets on-site or through local tour providers.
Booking tickets in advance is not typically necessary unless visiting during peak tourist season (July to September). It’s advisable to check for ticket availability during these months and book a day or two ahead, especially if traveling in a group.
A visit to Zhegu Lake usually takes about 2 to 4 hours, depending on how much time you spend exploring the lake and hiking around the surrounding trails. If you're planning a boat ride or fishing, add another hour to your visit.
Must-see highlights include the tranquil Zhegu Lake itself, surrounded by stunning Tibetan mountain scenery. The lakeside walking trails, viewpoints, and the Tibetan-style temple located nearby are also notable. The surrounding landscape, with its vast grasslands and towering mountains, is perfect for photography.
Guided tours are available and typically offered in Mandarin and Tibetan. It's recommended to hire a guide for a deeper understanding of the lake's cultural and ecological significance. Audio guides are not commonly available, so a personal guide is a better option for non-Mandarin speakers.
Some of the best viewpoints include the high ridges surrounding the lake, where you can capture panoramic shots of the lake with the snow-capped mountains in the background. The lakeside trails also provide excellent opportunities for close-up photos of the surrounding flora and fauna.
Start by visiting the lakeside for a relaxing walk, then head up to the surrounding ridges for stunning panoramic views. Afterward, explore the nearby Tibetan temple or enjoy a boat ride on the lake. If time permits, walk along one of the longer trails that lead to the surrounding mountain views.
Night visits are not typically offered, as the area is best explored during daylight hours. There are no light shows, but the natural beauty of the lake at sunset provides a serene and magical atmosphere. Special tours can be arranged for photography or cultural exploration, but they must be pre-booked.
Zhegu Lake can get crowded during peak travel seasons, particularly in July and August. The least crowded times to visit are in the spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) when the weather is still pleasant but the number of tourists is lower.
There are basic facilities at the entrance, including toilets and small food stalls offering local snacks. There are no large shops, so it’s recommended to bring your own water, snacks, and essentials, especially if you plan to explore the area for several hours.
The main viewing areas around Zhegu Lake are accessible for elderly and children, though some hiking trails may be challenging for those with mobility issues. It is recommended to check the terrain in advance if traveling with individuals who have special needs.
Cash is accepted at the site, and mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are commonly used in the area. Credit cards are less commonly accepted, so it’s advisable to carry enough cash or use mobile payments for convenience.
There are a few local Tibetan restaurants and small cafes around the area, offering simple meals like noodles, rice, and Tibetan specialties. For more dining options, visitors can head to Lhasa or the nearby town of Tsedang.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available, though the selection may be limited to simple dishes such as vegetables, rice, and Tibetan bread. Halal food options are not commonly found in this area.
There are guesthouses and hotels in Tsedang, the nearest town, which is about 30 minutes away by car. There are also a few simple accommodations near the scenic area for those who prefer staying closer to Zhegu Lake.
Nearby attractions include the Yarlung Tsangpo River, Tsedang Monastery, and the Samye Monastery. These sites are easily combined with a day trip from Zhegu Lake for those looking to explore more of the region’s natural beauty and Tibetan culture.
Souvenir shops are available near the entrance, offering local Tibetan handicrafts such as thangkas (paintings), jewelry, scarves, and prayer beads. These make great keepsakes or gifts from the region.
The best options to continue your trip are by taxi, private car, or bus. Tsedang and Lhasa are easily accessible from the site and offer transportation links to other parts of Tibet.
