Sacred Lake Circuit Guide｜Complete Record of Autumn Trekking at Namtso

Want to deeply experience Namtso? Then you must try the lake circuit! As a sacred site of Tibetan Buddhism, circling the lake is a lifelong wish for many devotees. This time, I've compiled the full guide for the autumn lake circuit!
🌟Cultural Background of the Lake Circuit:
Namtso is one of Tibet's three sacred lakes. The full circuit is about 318 kilometers and takes 8-10 days on foot. Devotees believe that pilgrimage around the lake accumulates merit and cleanses a lifetime of sins.
📅Best Time for the Lake Circuit:
September to October is the best season for the circuit! The weather is stable, temperatures are suitable (10-15℃ during the day, around 0℃ at night), and autumn colors adorn the lakeshore, creating stunning scenery.
🗺️Detailed Lake Circuit Route:
Complete Circuit Route (8-10 days)🏔️
Day 1: Tashi Peninsula → Duojia Monastery (20km)
Day 2: Duojia Monastery → Xiongqu Valley (25km)
Day 3: Xiongqu Valley → Buguzari (28km)
Day 4: Buguzari → Qiaduo Monastery (30km)
Day 5: Qiaduo Monastery → Angzicuo (25km)
Day 6: Angzicuo → Bali Village (22km)
Day 7: Bali Village → Tashi Peninsula (18km)
*The itinerary can be adjusted according to physical condition.
Short Experience Route (3 days)
Suitable for sisters with limited time, choose the section from Tashi Peninsula to Duojia Monastery, which has the most beautiful scenery and moderate difficulty.
🎒Lake Circuit Gear List:
Hiking Gear👟
• High-top waterproof hiking boots (important!)
• Trekking poles (save energy, test terrain)
• Backpack over 65L (or hire a porter)
• Sleeping bag (rated -10℃)
• Moisture-proof mat
Clothing Preparation🧦
• Windproof and waterproof jacket and pants
• Fleece jacket + light down jacket
• Quick-dry underwear (stay dry)
• Wool socks (3-4 pairs for rotation)
• Sun hat + warm hat
Supplies🍫
• Pressure cooker (essential for cooking on the plateau)
• Dehydrated food + energy bars
• Water purification tablets (water available by the lake)
• Common medicines (cold medicine, anti-diarrhea)
💡Lake Circuit Precautions:
Cultural Taboos🙏
The circuit must be done clockwise, not counterclockwise. When encountering mani stone piles, pass on the left side and do not move the stones casually.
Environmental Requirements🌿
Namtso is a sacred lake and must not be polluted! All trash must be carried out, and washing should be done at least 100 meters away from the lake.
Safety Tips⚠️
• Check weather changes before setting out each day
• Find accommodation before 3 PM
• Keep rescue and park contact numbers saved
• Do not travel alone; groups of 4 or more are recommended
🏡Accommodation and Supplies:
Accommodation Options🏕️
There are simple herder guesthouses along the circuit, costing about 50-100 RMB per night with basic conditions. You can also bring your own tent for camping, which offers more freedom.
Supply Points🛒
Villages along the way can replenish food and water, but they are spaced far apart, so it is recommended to carry at least 5 days of dry food supplies.
💰Cost Budget:
• Porter fees: 200-300 RMB/day (can share luggage)
• Accommodation and meals: 100-150 RMB/day
• Guide fees: 300-500 RMB/day (important!)
• Total for 8 days: about 3000-5000 RMB per person
🌄Special Experience:
If time is limited, you can try a 1-2 day short trek from Tashi Peninsula to Duojia Monastery. This section has the most beautiful scenery and moderate difficulty. Along the way, you can see the perfect reflection of the Nyenchen Tanglha Mountains, and the autumn grasslands are golden, perfect for photos!
The lake circuit is not just a hike but a spiritual cleansing. In the embrace of the sacred lake, feel the purest Tibet—this experience will surely be unforgettable for a lifetime!