Namtso, Tibetan for "Heavenly Lake", is often described as being next to heaven because of its lofty altitude, stunning beauty, endless pure blue water, and spiritual associations.
It is the highest saltwater lake in the world. Snow-capped mountains in the distance, along with yak herds and nomads by the lakeside, surround the crystal-clear waters of Lake Namtso, making it one of the most beautiful places in Tibet.
Lake NamtsoFacts:
- Chinese name: 纳木错, Nàmù Cuò
- Location: Damshung County, Nagqu Prefecture; 220 kilometers (140 miles) north of Lhasa city, 4½ hours' drive.
- Altitude: 4,718 meters (15,479 feet), accessed by a 5,100m (16,700 ft) mountain pass
- Ticket: 110 RMB /15 USD entrance fee + 100 RMB /14 USD shuttle bus (south shore)
- Open: 08:00–20:00
- Duration: 1-3 h
- Best times: June to September
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How to Visit Lake Namtso: Routes and Itinerary
Lake Namtso lies about 220 kilometers (140 miles) north of Lhasa, and a single journey takes around 4–5 hours by car.
For most travelers, a day trip is the most practical option, since facilities around the lake are basic and accommodation choices are limited.
If you prefer a slower pace and don't want to spend too much time on the road in one day, you can plan a two days itinerary and arrange an overnight stay in Damxung, 2 hours away on the Lhasa road.
Suggested Day Itinerary
- 08:00 Depart from Lhasa
- 12:30–13:00 Arrive at the south shore of Lake Namtso
- 13:00–16:00 Explore the lakeside, enjoy the views, hike a little, and take photos
- 16:00–17:00 Have dinner at nearby restaurants
- 17:00 Drive back to Lhasa
- 20:30–21:00 Return to your hotel in Lhasa
Which Lake Shore to Choose
There are four sections of Lake Namtso's shoreline, but in practice, the south shore and north shore are the primary areas most travelers visit. Each offers a very different experience.
With just one day, you'll need to choose either the south shore or the north shore. If you want to explore both, plan at least two full days for the trip.
South Shore (Most Recommended)
This is the best option for most travelers. The south shore, centered on Tashi Peninsula, is the most developed and convenient area, with ticketed access, parking lots, and relatively complete facilities. On a clear day, the lake shines in a vivid shade of blue, framed by the snow-capped Nyenchen Tanglha Mountains, dotted with yak herds and colorful prayer flags.
South shore of NamtsoTashi Peninsula is the perfect spot to get close to the lake or climb the small hillsides for sweeping views of Namtso and the surrounding mountains. It's also the best place to enjoy sunrise and sunset.
You can take a 3-kilometer walk around the peninsula, immersing yourself in the stunning scenery that captivates all your senses.
North Shore (Shengxiang Tianmen / Holy Elephant Gate)
The north shore is best known for Shengxiang Tianmen (or Holy Elephant Gate, 圣象天门), a natural rock arch that resembles an elephant drinking from the lake and once became a viral photo spot online. Today, the classic viewpoint is no longer accessible, but two newly built platforms still provide breathtaking panoramas of the vast lake and snowcapped mountains.
Shengxiang TianmenHowever, reaching the north shore is a challenge: it requires 7–8 hours' drive from Lhasa (one way), with long stretches of bumpy dirt road. Inside the scenic area you also need to transfer to a shuttle bus, and a short stair climb is required to reach the platforms.
Although the north shore provides some of the most striking perspectives of the lake, the long and tiring journey makes it impractical for most travelers. After the long drive, you can only reach the viewing platforms which are far away from the water.
For most travelers, the south shore is the best choice. The north shore is only worth considering if you are a photography enthusiast with extra time and don't mind the long, bumpy journey.
East Shore
Currently closed to visitors, and even when open, the water here tends to be murkier and the scenery less impressive. Not recommended.
West Shore (Duojia Temple)
While the scenery here is decent, the location is extremely remote (about 470 km from Lhasa), and facilities are almost nonexistent. The rough journey and lack of services make it unsuitable for most travelers. It's really only an option for hardcore off-road enthusiasts.
Duojia TempleTravel Tips
Altitude Notice
Lake Namtso sits at an elevation of 4,718 meters (15,479 feet), which is significantly higher than Lhasa. Many visitors may feel the effects of altitude, especially in the morning when oxygen levels are lower.
Walk slowly, and avoid strenuous activity. Travel with us, and we can provide oxygen bottles in the car.
Oxygen bottles and medicineBest Time to Visit
The best season to visit Lake Namtso is from June to September, when the lake is full, the grasslands are lush, and herds of yaks and sheep graze under the backdrop of snow-capped peaks.
Avoid visiting in winter (December–February), as the lake freezes over and the Laken La Pass (5,190 m) is often blocked by heavy snow, making access impossible.
Transportation
The only way to reach Namtso from Lhasa is by private car. The road is generally in good condition, but if you plan to visit the northern shore (Sacred Elephant Gate), expect about two hours of very bumpy dirt road.
For the southern shore, once you arrive at the scenic entrance, you must take a shuttle bus (about 30 minutes, 100 RMB/ 14 USD) to reach the lakeside.
Facilities
Facilities around the lake are basic. Toilets inside the scenic area are limited and often poorly maintained, so it's best to use restrooms in hotels or restaurants before setting out.
There is no hotel accommodation at Namtso, but there is a campsite with limited electricity and running water. You can find some better hotels in the town of Damxung.
Food options around Lake Namtso are very limited. Bring some snacks or light meals for the journey. Small service stations and the scenic area entrance have basic supplies, but don't expect much variety.
Swimming Not Allowed
Namtso is considered one of Tibet's most sacred lakes. Swimming, washing, or otherwise entering the water is strictly prohibited and seen as deeply disrespectful to locals.
Clothing & Sun Protection
The lakeside is often windy, with chilly air despite the strong sunshine. Wear warm layers and a windproof jacket. At the same time, UV radiation is intense at this altitude. You can bring sunglasses, sunscreen, and cover exposed skin to avoid sunburn.
Lake Namtso V.S. Lake Yamdrok
Though both are iconic lakes in Tibet, Namtso and Yamdrok each offer a very different kind of beauty.
Different lake view
Namtso is vast and ocean-like, with waves rolling across its deep blue waters. Backed by distant snow-capped peaks, the view is open, grand, and awe-inspiring. Yamdrok, on the other hand, stretches in long, winding curves, its blue-green surface calm and reflective. Dotted with islands and framed by grasslands, it feels quiet and graceful, almost like a painting.
Lake YamdrokNamtso is more distant
From Lhasa, Namtso takes 4–5 hours one way, while Yamdrok is only 2–3 hours. Visiting Namtso usually needs a 1–2 day trip, while Yamdrok can be visited in just half a day or a relaxed day trip.
Yamdrok offers more experience
Yamdrok offers more varied experiences: several viewpoints with different angles, photo spots, and even the chance to ride a yak, hold a baby lamb, or enjoy a picnic on the grassland.
Animals on the lakesideNamtso is more about the single, overwhelming view of the lake and snow mountains, with a stronger sense of grandeur.
Which to Choose?
If your Tibet trip is less than a week, it's best to visit just one lake instead of both. This way, you'll have more time for other highlights and experiences, making your itinerary richer. We suggest choosing Yamdrok, it's closer to Lhasa, easier to reach, offers more diverse experiences, and conveniently lies on the way to Shigatse and Mount Everest.
If you're especially interested in Tibetan lakes, you can still plan both lakes, but plan at least 2–3 additional days.
Tour Lake Namtso with China Highlights
The Chinese government forbids independent tourism and requires all foreign travelers to have a guide, tour company itinerary, and a Tibet Entry Permit, all of which we can arrange.
If you are interested in travelling Lake Namtso, you can contact us or see our most popular tours for inspiration:
- 4-Day Lhasa Highlights Tour
- 5-Days Lhasa Classics and Lake Yamdrok -Tour
- 8-Days Lhasa to Everest Base Camp Tour
- For a tailor-made China tour, please tell us your interests and requirements.
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