Yamdrok Lake
One of Tibet's three sacred lakes, with turquoise waters surrounded by snow-capped mountains.
History & Background
Yamdrok Lake, at 4,441m elevation, is one of Tibet's three sacred lakes alongside Namtso and Manasarovar. The lake stretches 72km long and is shaped like a scorpion. According to legend, it was formed by a goddess who transformed into the lake. Pilgrims circumambulate the lake, and its turquoise waters are considered holy.
What to See & Do
- Turquoise waters surrounded by snow-capped mountains
- Samding Monastery on a peninsula in the lake
- Karo La pass viewpoint overlooking the lake
- Pilgrims performing kora (circumambulation)
- Reflections of mountains in calm morning waters
Visitor Tips
- Stop at Karo La pass for the classic photo viewpoint
- Visit in the morning for clearest water colors
- Bring warm clothes as it's windy at high altitude
- Respect pilgrims and do not disturb their prayers
- Allow 2-3 hours including drive time from Lhasa
Visit Yamdrok Lake with QTour
Our private tours include this attraction with an expert guide, private vehicle, and flexible itinerary.
QTour builds private itineraries around Yamdrok Lake with a dedicated English-speaking guide and a private air-conditioned vehicle. Your guide arranges entrance tickets, skips the queues where possible and explains the history in your language — no fixed group schedule and no shopping stops. Every booking follows our one-booking-one-team policy.
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