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Lake Mapam Yumtso is located in Purang County, Ngari Prefecture, 30 kilometers southeast of Mount Kailash, at an altitude of 4,588 meters. It is one of the highest freshwater lakes in the world. In Tibetan, "Mapam" means invincible and invincible, so Lake Mapam Yumtso means the invincible jade lake.
It is also known as one of the three "sacred lakes" in Tibet and the source of Asia's four major rivers. The "source of the four great rivers" mentioned in the Abhidharmakosha of the ancient Zhangzhung Buddhist Tripitaka refers to Lake Manasarovar, the mother of the sacred lakes.
Laang Lake nestles snugly beside the sacred Lake Manasarovar. The area between the two lakes is the only way in and out of Purang County. It's said that even without wind, the waves at Ghost Lake are three feet high. In fact, the scenery here is truly stunning, with the dark red hills surrounding the lake creating a mystical, shimmering scene.
There are 8 temples surrounding Lake Manasarovar, distributed on all sides of the lake.
From the end of October to the end of April each year, the Xinjiang-Tibet Highway is blocked by heavy snow and is impassable, so June to October is the best time to visit.
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Manasarovar Lake holds great significance for Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and Bonpo traditions. It is believed to be the abode of the gods, and its waters are considered sacred, offering spiritual purification. It has long been a pilgrimage destination, especially for those traveling to Mount Kailash, its neighboring holy peak.
Manasarovar Lake is located in the Tibet Autonomous Region, near Mount Kailash. The closest major city is Lhasa, from which you can travel by car or tour bus. Most visitors need to travel via a guided tour, as public transportation options are limited.
Manasarovar Lake is open year-round. The best time to visit is during the summer months (May to September), when the weather is milder and more accessible for trekking and religious activities.
There is generally no entry fee for the lake itself, but permits are required to visit the region, especially if traveling from outside Tibet. These permits can be obtained through travel agencies offering guided tours, which typically include the required permits for entry.
Yes, it is highly recommended to book your trip in advance, especially for permits and guided tours. Booking at least 2–3 months in advance is advisable, as permits and accommodations are limited in the region.
To fully explore the lake and its surroundings, plan for at least 2–3 days. This will allow time for spiritual activities, hiking, and relaxation by the lake.
Guided tours are available, typically in English and Chinese. Some tours offer additional language options, depending on the tour provider.
Start with a visit to the lake's edge, take time for reflection, and enjoy the views of Mount Kailash. You can also visit nearby monasteries. If you are up for a more strenuous experience, consider hiking part of the route to Mount Kailash.
Night visits are not common, but the area’s spiritual atmosphere and the clear sky make it a great spot for stargazing. There are no light shows, but some tours offer nighttime prayers and rituals.
Manasarovar Lake is most crowded during the pilgrimage season, typically in summer. The least crowded times are during the winter months, though the weather can be harsh at that time.
Facilities are minimal in the region. Some basic accommodations and food are available near the lake, but restrooms and shops are limited. It is advisable to bring your own supplies, especially water and snacks.
Due to the high altitude and challenging terrain, the area may not be suitable for elderly visitors or those with mobility challenges. It is important to check with tour operators about accessibility options.
Cash is necessary as card payments and mobile payments are not widely accepted. Ensure you carry enough local currency or Chinese yuan for your trip.
There are a few basic Tibetan-style guesthouses and restaurants offering traditional Tibetan food such as tsampa, momos, and butter tea. Most options are quite simple and basic.
Vegetarian options are available, as Tibetan cuisine often features vegetarian dishes. Vegan options may be limited, but it is possible to request vegetarian food from local restaurants. Halal food is generally not available in this area.
There are small shops selling Tibetan handicrafts, prayer beads, and religious items like Tibetan thangkas (paintings) and prayer wheels.
