The Mysterious Powers of Tibet's Yamdroktso

Learn about lake revered by Buddhists and the and its beautiful surroundings.

Surrounded by snow-capped mountains and fed by countless small streams, Yamdroktso is a lake of significant cultural and religious importance, revered by Buddhists as one of Tibet’s sacred lakes. With its deep salt waters and innumerable bays and coves, Yamdroktso is truly one of the most unique and enigmatic natural attractions in China.

Part of this appeal is found in the sight of the lake’s placid turquoise waters. When thrown into contrast against the surrounding terrain, it is truly a breathtaking sight. In fact, it is easy to see how a vivid mythology has grown to surround Yamdroktso. According to popular legend, the lake is the incarnation of a goddess who descended from heaven to be with her husband; another deity who took the form of the nearby Mount Kampala. The serene view from the banks of Yamdroktso is certainly out of this world, with a particular entrancing beauty to be seen in the winter months when the vast lake is frozen solid by super-low high altitude temperatures. At other times of year, the lake visibly teems with fish, just as the skies above it are filled with feeding birdlife.

In Yamdroktso, just as in other regions of Tibet, spiritual belief and mythology is intrinsically woven into the fabric of the culture. There is a legend that states that Tibet will cease to exist if the lake runs dry, a tale that possibly has a root in the region's history as the founding point of Tibetan culture. Unsurprisingly, with such an amazing natural and historical pedigree, the area is an excellent sightseeing spot, popular with budding historians, pilgrims and ethnologists alike.

With the October Holiday fast approaching, some may choose to visit. For those who aren't willing to brave it alone, China Spring Tour is offering a 6 day tour of Tibet. There is also a early bird discount available. You can learn more about that by clicking this link here.