Peikucuo

Introducing Peikucuo

Peiku Tsuo is located in Nyalam County, Shigatse Prefecture, 250 kilometers from Tingri County. Peiku Tsuo is the largest lake in the Shigatse Prefecture, situated at an altitude of 4,590 meters and covering an area of ​​over 300 square kilometers. The lake's waters are fresh in the south and salty in the north. The vast lake basin, its azure waters, and the reflection of the snow-capped Shishapangma Peak complement each other, creating a rugged plateau landscape.

The lake is surrounded by mountains on three sides, with open terrain and rich fish resources. Wild horses, Tibetan wild donkeys, Tibetan antelopes, cranes, yellow ducks, gray ducks and other animals can be found on the lakeshore.

With the reflection of Shishapangma Peak (60 kilometers from the south side of the lake) and the sound of the Yarlung Zangbo River (40 kilometers from the north side of the lake), Peikucuo, a gourd-shaped high mountain lake that represents auspiciousness, has reasons to move people and make them stop.

Climate and best time to travel

Peikucuo is most beautiful in summer and autumn, and you can also watch many wild animals on the shore.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended play time: 1-2 hours

Tickets

Tickets are included in the Shishapangma Scenic Area package

Attraction opening hours

9:00-18:00

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Most Popular FAQs for Peikucuo

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Peikucuo is a high-altitude freshwater lake in Tibet, valued for its natural beauty, ecological significance, and cultural importance to local Tibetan communities. It is part of the Himalayan watershed and serves as a habitat for migratory birds.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Located in Shigatse Prefecture, Tibet, about 90 km east of Shigatse city. Visitors typically reach the lake via private vehicle or organized tour from Shigatse or nearby towns, as public transport is very limited.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

• Open year-round, daylight hours only.
• Best visiting months are May to October for milder weather and accessible roads.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

There is no official entrance fee. Access is generally included in organized tour packages, and permits may be required as part of Tibet Travel Permit regulations.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Yes, Tibet Travel Permits must be arranged through a registered travel agency, ideally 1–2 weeks before travel.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

2–3 hours are typically sufficient to walk around the lake and visit nearby viewpoints; longer if including photography and exploration of surrounding trails.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• The main lakeside with views of turquoise waters.
• Surrounding hills for panoramic photography.
• Nomadic settlements and grazing areas for cultural observation.
• Reflection spots for capturing Mount Nyenchen Tanglha or other Himalayan peaks in the lake.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available through local operators, mainly in English and Chinese; audio guides are generally not provided.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Lakeshore for wide-angle shots of the lake and mountains.
• Nearby hills and small cliffs for panoramic views.
• Nomadic grazing areas for cultural and wildlife photography.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start at the main lakeshore, walk along the perimeter, visit viewpoints on surrounding hills, then explore nearby grazing areas to observe local culture and wildlife.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

No night visits or light shows are available; special tours are daytime guided visits included in tour packages.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Peikucuo is usually quiet due to its remote location. Early mornings or weekdays are the least crowded.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

• Basic facilities are limited; small teahouses may exist near access points.
• Bring your own water and food.
• Rest areas are natural spots along the lakeshore and nearby hills.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Access can be challenging due to high altitude and rough terrain; elderly and disabled visitors should take caution. Children should be supervised.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is recommended; digital payments may not be accepted in remote areas.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Limited teahouses or small eateries near access roads; no formal restaurants directly at the lake.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available at local teahouses; vegan and halal options are rare.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• Basic guesthouses or lodges in nearby villages or along the road from Shigatse.
• Some tour operators offer overnight camping near the lake.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• Rongbuk Monastery and Everest North Base Camp.
• Nearby Himalayan trekking trails.
• Local Tibetan villages for cultural experiences.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Small local shops may sell Tibetan handicrafts, prayer flags, and textiles near village access points.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

• Private vehicle or tour vehicle back to Shigatse or Tingri.
• Organized tour transport is recommended due to limited public transport in this region.