Lake Yamdrok (or Yamdrok Yumtso) is known as one of the three holy lakes of Tibet, and it is also the closest one to Lhasa, making it a popular destination on the way to Gyantse or Shigatse along the scenic S307 highway.
Unlike most alpine lakes, Yamdrok was formed by natural landslides that blocked river channels, giving it a unique winding shoreline and dozens of scattered islands.
When sunlight hits its waters, the lake transforms into a canvas of emerald, turquoise, and deep sapphire tones, earning its name in Tibetan "Yamdrok Yumtso", meaning "jade lake".
Lake YamdrokFacts
- Chinese name: 羊卓雍措, Yángzhuō Yōngcuò
- Location: Langkazi County, Shannan Prefecture, Tibet; about 110 km (2-3 hours' drive) from Lhasa
- Altitude: 4,441 m (14,570 ft)
- Opening: All day
- Tickets: 60 RMB (8 USD)
- Duration: 1-3h
- Best time: April to June; September to November
Content Preview
- How to Visit Lake Yamdrok
- Suggested Itinerary
- Best Time to Visit
- Is it Necessary to stay overnight at the lake
- Other Travel Tips
- Lake Yamdrok V.S. Lake Namtso
How to Visit Lake Yamdrok
Lake Yamdrok is about 110 km from Lhasa, and the only way to reach it is by car, which takes around 2.5 hours.
If you travel with us, we'll arrange a comfortable private car with hotel pick-up and drop-off, bringing a smooth and worry-free journey.
Which Viewing Platforms Are Recommended
There are five main viewing platforms and one hidden viewpoint around Lake Yamdrok. Platforms 1–3 require a combined ticket of 100 RMB (USD 14), while the others are free to access.
If you're mainly visiting for the views, we recommend Platform 1 (Gambala Pass) for the classic panoramic scene and Platform 3 for the best up-close experience. To avoid crowds, head to Platform 5 or the Luzhila hidden viewpoint.
Lake Yamdrok is famous for its shifting shades of blue and turquoise, set against snowcapped mountains. The colors change with the sunlight and your viewpoint.
If you have plenty of time, you can stop at each platform along the way, or simply pull over at safe roadside spots to enjoy different angles of the lake.
Stop on the road and enjoy the sceneryTip: The inner area of Lake Yamdrok (sometimes called the "Heart of the Lake") is currently closed to visitors. Sightseeing is limited to the outer shoreline.
Platform 1 – Gambala Pass (4,990 m): Most popular, best for a full panorama
This is the first and highest main viewpoint you'll reach when driving from Lhasa. It offers a sweeping bird's-eye view of Lake Yamdrok, with the winding turquoise water set against snowcapped peaks.
The scenery is spectacular, but the entry requires a 60 RMB ticket plus a 100 RMB platform fee, and it is usually quite crowded.
Platform 2 – Langbuchi (4,700 m): Mid-slope angle, easy parking
Located halfway down the mountain, this platform provides convenient parking and a slightly lower perspective compared to Platform 1. You'll still see the shimmering lake with snowcapped mountains behind.
Platform 3 – Lakeside Platform (4,960 m): By the water, interact with animals
Here you can walk right down to the lakeshore, watch the clear water and fish in the lake closely, and sometimes spot local yaks or sheep. It's perfect for close-up photos with Yamdrok's turquoise water.
Riding a yak by the lakePlatform 4 – "Starry Sky" Platform: Bird watching, camping spot
On the lakeshore, this area is popular among domestic travelers. You can watch birds, feed seagulls, and even camp overnight under a sky full of stars.
Platform 5 – Lakeshore Platform: Quiet, less crowded
Another lakeside stop that is quieter and less visited. Locals set up a lot of photo props here, and it's a good choice if you want fewer crowds and more space to take pictures.
Hidden Viewpoint – Luzhila (over 5,100 m): Offbeat, stunning panorama
Located on a hilltop near Drega Monastery, this little-known spot offers dramatic panoramas of Yamdrok. From here, you can even see Mt. Kula Kangri and Noijin Kangsang on clear days.
What to Do at Lake Yamdrok Besides Scenery
Picnic by the Lake
If the weather is good, we can prepare fruit and sandwiches for a picnic. Sitting by the lakeshore and enjoying simple food with the lake and mountains around you is one of the most peaceful experiences at Yamdrok.
Picnic at YamdrokThere are limited food options around the lake, so we also suggest carrying your own snacks and drinking water.
Meet Local Animals
Local Tibetans often bring yaks, sheep, or Tibetan mastiffs for visitors to take photos with. A small fee (about 10–20 RMB) is charged for pictures, and you can also try a short yak ride for around 30 RMB.
Local animals by the lakeFeed Seagulls and Birdwatch
Yamdrok is the largest migratory bird habitat in southern Tibet. In autumn and winter, flocks of white birds cover the sky and islands.
Along the shore, visitors also like to feed seagulls. You can bring some breadcrumbs or biscuits to feed them, and we can help you to capture this lively and warm moment.
Seagulls at Lake YamdrokSee the "Fish Treasure of Tibet"
Lake Yamdrok is rich in freshwater fish, which locals regard as sacred. You can spot them easily along the lakeside, since the water is crystal-clear.
Fishing is not allowed due to local water burial customs and beliefs, and most locals do not eat the fish. However, nearby fish farms supply some to restaurants in Tibet.
Suggested Itinerary
Lake Yamdrok is close to Lhasa, so if you have extra time, you can combine it with nearby attractions.
- Karola Glacier is about 1.5 hours' drive from the lake. A short 30–60 minute stop is enough to admire this roadside glacier, which cascades down the dark mountain like a silver thangka.
- Samding Monastery, located on a hilltop about 2 hours from Yamdrok and just 30 minutes from Karola Glacier, is Tibet's only monastery led by a female reincarnated lama. It's rarely crowded, and from here you can enjoy sweeping views of both the lake and distant snowcapped peaks.
Karola GlacierRecommended Day Trip Itinerary:
- 08:00–10:00 Drive from Lhasa to Lake Yamdrok
- 10:00–13:00 Explore the lake and enjoy a picnic
- 13:00–14:30 Drive to Karola Glacier
- 14:30–15:00 Visit Karola Glacier
- 15:00–15:30 Drive to Samding Monastery
- 15:30–16:30 Visit Samding Monastery
- 16:30–19:30 Return to Lhasa
Visiting all three places in one day may lead to a long and busy trip. If you prefer a slower pace, consider visiting only Lake Yamdrok, or combining it with either Karola Glacier or Samding Monastery.
You can also check our 5-Day Lhasa Classics and Lake Yamdrok Tour.
Best Time to Visit
The best seasons are April to June and September to November, when the weather is mild, rainfall is low, and the skies are often more clear for sightseeing and photography.
Lake YamdrokLake Yamdrok can be visited year-round, but its appearance is heavily influenced by the weather. On sunny days, the lake shimmers in layers of turquoise and sapphire, while cloudy skies may make it look darker and less vibrant.
Due to the high altitude, temperatures vary greatly. Days can feel warm under the strong sun, but nights are chilly, often dropping below freezing in winter. In summer, daytime temperatures usually stay around 15–20°C, though the strong UV rays make it feel hotter.
Is it Necessary to stay overnight at the lake
We do not recommend stay overnight near Lake Yamdrok.
The nearest town is Nagarze Town(浪卡子镇), about 10 km south of Lake Yamdrok. It has a few basic guesthouses and simple restaurants, suitable for travelers who want to spend more time hiking or exploring around the lake.
We recommend returning to Lhasa for the night, where accommodation is more comfortable and convenient. If you plan to continue your journey westward, staying in Shigatse is also a good option.
Other Travel Tips
No western toliets
Public toilets around Lake Yamdrok are often simple pit toilets, especially at parking lots, viewpoints, or along the roadside. They usually charge a small fee, but the conditions are quite terrible. We recommend using the restroom at your hotel before setting out.
Still Stay Alert to Altitude Sickness
Lake Yamdrok sits at an altitude of 4,441 m, and the Gambala Pass viewpoint rises as high as 4,990 m. Move slowly, avoid strenuous activity, and stay hydrated.
Our private tours include oxygen bottles and basic medicine in the car for altitude sickness to make your trip safer and more comfortable.
Respect Local Culture
Lake Yamdrok is considered a sacred lake in Tibetan Buddhism. Swimming, fishing, or bathing in the lake are strictly forbidden. Please be respectful of local beliefs and customs during your visit.
Lake Yamdrok V.S. Lake Namtso
Yamdrok and Namtso each have their own beauty, but for a regular Tibet trip we suggest including just one lake in your itinerary, unless you are especially passionate about nature.
Lake NamtsoWe recommend Yamdrok, as it's closer to Lhasa, easier to reach, offers more diverse experiences, and is conveniently on the way to Shigatse and Mount Everest. Its lower altitude compared to Namtso also makes the visit more comfortable.
If you're especially interested in Tibetan lakes, you can still plan both lakes, but plan at least 2–3 additional days.
Want to know more about Lake Namtso? Check our Lake Namtso Travel Guide.
Tour Lake Yamdrok with China Highlights
If you want a Tibet tour including Lake Yamdrok, see our best-selling Lake Yamdrok tours below:
See the following popular Tibet tours for inspiration, or you can contact us to create a Tibet tour according to your requirements.
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