Namtso Lake
One of Tibet's three holiest lakes, and the highest large salt lake on Earth.
Namtso, the name means "Heavenly Lake" in Tibetan, sits at around 4,720m and is both one of Tibet's three holiest lakes and the highest large saltwater lake in the world. Its deep blue water stretches to the horizon against a backdrop of the Nyenchen Tanglha mountain range, snow-capped even in summer.
Pilgrims traditionally circle the lake during the Year of the Sheep in the Tibetan calendar, considered especially auspicious, though most travellers visit for the scenery alone, the drive from Lhasa crosses the 5,190m Lagen La pass, itself higher than the lake, before descending to the shore.
Highlights
One of Tibet's three holiest lakes
The highest large saltwater lake in the world, at around 4,720m
Framed by the snow-capped Nyenchen Tanglha range
The access road crosses the 5,190m Lagen La pass
Practical Info
Address
Nagqu Prefecture, Tibet Autonomous Region
Opening Hours
8:00am–6:00pm daily, typical (seasonal access; can close in heavy winter snow)
Price
moderate
Entry fee payable on site
In This Destination
Nagqu
Vast northern grasslands and the sacred Namtso Lake