Rakshastal Lake

拉昂措 · Lake · Ngari

Rakshastal lies just across a narrow ridge from Manasarovar and is salt water, known as the 'ghost lake'. Its long, deep-blue shape faces Kailash directly, giving strong colour contrast at sunset.

See stays
TypeLake
Altitude4,575 m (15,010 ft)
Visit lengthAbout 2 hours
Opening hoursDaylight hours; check seasonal access

Overview

Quick facts about Rakshastal Lake

Quick answer

Rakshastal lies just across a narrow ridge from Manasarovar and is salt water, known as the 'ghost lake'. Its long, deep-blue shape faces Kailash directly, giving strong colour contrast at sunset.

TypeLake
Altitude4,575 m (15,010 ft)
Visit lengthAbout 2 hours
Opening hoursDaylight hours; check seasonal access

How to visit

Practical advice from our Lhasa team.

  • Walk slowly. Steep stairs at altitude are harder — come on your second or third day, not the day you arrive.
  • Taxi drop-off: Designated parking area at the site entrance
  • Bus: Access is by tour vehicle or chartered car

Hotels near Rakshastal Lake

Sorted by walking or driving distance when we have it; otherwise hotels we use in the same city.

Ngari
Vienna International Hotel (Ali Shenshan)
Ngari
Vienna International Hotel (Ritu Bangonghu Branch)
Ngari
Pranphuntsok Kangsang Oxygen Hotel
Ngari
YuntianInterContinental Hotel
Ngari
Pengrun Grand Hotel
Ngari
Kailas万豪国际酒店
See all stays

Best time to visit

Average daily high and low in °C, and monthly rain in mm. Roads to this area can close in winter.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec18°-15°130 mm
Daily highDaily lowRain
BestGoodCold or limited access

Nearby

Business District
Shiquanhe Town

狮泉河镇

Museum
Ngari Prefecture Museum

阿里地区博物馆

River
Shiquanhe (Indus Headwaters)

狮泉河

Airport
Ngari Gunsa Airport

阿里昆莎机场

Bus Station
Shiquanhe Bus Station

狮泉河客运站

Visitor Center
Ngari Travel Service Centre

阿里旅游服务中心

Questions

Rakshastal Lake is at about 4,575 m (15,010 ft) above sea level. Plan a slow first day and drink plenty of water.
The better months are usually May, June, September.
Yes. All foreign visitors need a Tibet Travel Permit, and some areas need extra permits. We file them for you with every booking.
About 2 hours

Visiting Ngari?

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