Yamdrok Ymtso (Yang Zhuo Yong Cuo Lake, 羊卓雍措湖), meaning “Jade Lake” in Tibetan, is often regarded by Tibetans as “the turquoise earring scattered by a goddess.” It is one of the three sacred lakes of Tibet, alongside Namtso and Manasarovar. Situated in the southern part of the Tibetan Plateau, Yamdrok Ymtso is the largest closed inland lake in the region, covering an area of 638 square kilometers. The lake’s surface is at an elevation of 4,441 meters, with an average depth of about 23.6 meters.
Yamdrok Ymtso features 21 small islands, each independent in water surface area. The larger islands can accommodate five to six households, while the smaller ones are just a few hundred square meters, with the largest island spanning approximately 18 square kilometers. These islands are rich in lush grasslands and are home to herds of cattle and sheep. To the west of the lake lies the majestic Ningjing Gangsa Peak, one of the three prominent snow-capped mountains in the area, standing at 7,206 meters. This peak is considered one of the four sacred mountains of Tibet.
Viewing Yamdrok Ymtso from a distance is far more captivating than being up close. After crossing the 5,030-meter-high Gampa La Pass, it takes about 30 minutes to drive down to the lake’s edge. This route offers stunning views of the lake, with multiple viewpoints along the way where visitors can stop and capture beautiful photographs.
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Basic Information
| Estimated Length of Tour | 1 – 2 hours |
| Ticket Price | Free |
| Opening Hours | 8.00 – 18.00 |
Location and Transportation
Yamdrok Ymtso Lake, known as “the turquoise lake,” is situated in the Tibet Autonomous Region, specifically between Gonggar County and Langkazi County in Shannan City, Lhasa. It lies along Provincial Road 307, nestled between longitudes 90.08°E and 91.45°E, and latitudes 28.27°N and 29.12°N.
To reach Yamdrok Ymtso Lake, you can either hire a private vehicle or take a public bus. Daily bus services operate from the Langkazi office in Lhasa, costing approximately 50 yuan per person. However, buses from Lhasa to Shigatse now take a new route and do not pass by Yamdrok Lake. Therefore, the best options are to hire a vehicle or hitch a ride. Renting a jeep for a group of six typically costs between 1,500 to 2,000 yuan per day. Additionally, many travel agencies in Lhasa offer day tours to Yamdrok Ymtso Lake, making it accessible for visitors.
Highlights of Yamdrok Ymtso Lake
Seoduo Island: Seoduo Island stands about 15 meters high, with a gentle slope and a surface covered in gravel. The crevices of the rocks are home to various plants, including trailing vines, yellow flowers, and purple vetch. There is also a stone house that serves as a temporary residence for local bird guardians during the breeding season. The island hosts over 2,800 bird nests, with the most notable species being the bar-headed goose, which can number around 7,500 at peak times, and the brown-headed gull, which can exceed 7,000.
Rido Island: Rido Island is quite small, so much so that it may not even appear on some maps. However, it is known for the Rido Monastery, associated with the Sakya school of Tibetan Buddhism, which attracts many pilgrims. It is said that when someone passes away, their relatives must visit this monastery to light lamps and offer incense in hopes of earning merit. The monastery houses a precious golden butter lamp, making it a significant spiritual site.
Rituo Monastery: Located at the summit of a mountain, Rituo Monastery features the same red and yellow architectural style found in Lhasa’s temples. Although it is small, it is a complete monastery with a history of over 700 years. Due to its remote location, this temple is relatively lesser-known.
Sangding Monastery: Sangding Monastery is situated about 5 kilometers east of Langkazi County. Built in the fifth year of the Ming Dynasty’s Zhengtong era (1440) by the master Nima Tsondu, its full name translates to “Gathering Place of Auspicious Sky Dancers—Wish-Fulfilling Dharma Platform.” Notably, this monastery is unique in Tibet for being led by a female Living Buddha, making it a significant site in Tibetan Buddhism.
