Lhamo Lhatso

拉姆拉措 · Lake · Shannan

Lhamo Lhatso is the celebrated vision lake at about 5,000 m, where pilgrims traditionally seek reflections of past and future. Reaching the viewpoint requires a steep 200 m walk from the car park, strenuous at this altitude.

See stays
TypeLake
Altitude5,000 m (16,404 ft)
Visit lengthAbout 2 hours
Opening hoursDaylight hours; check seasonal access

Overview

Quick facts about Lhamo Lhatso

Quick answer

Lhamo Lhatso is the celebrated vision lake at about 5,000 m, where pilgrims traditionally seek reflections of past and future. Reaching the viewpoint requires a steep 200 m walk from the car park, strenuous at this altitude.

TypeLake
Altitude5,000 m (16,404 ft)
Visit lengthAbout 2 hours
Opening hoursDaylight hours; check seasonal access
Good to knowThe walk to the viewpoint is exposed; allow an hour and go slowly.

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 Lhamo Lhatso

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

Best time to visit

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

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec15°-18°130 mm
Daily highDaily lowRain
BestGoodCold or limited access

Nearby

Questions

Lhamo Lhatso is at about 5,000 m (16,404 ft) above sea level. Plan a slow first day and drink plenty of water.
The better months are usually May, June, September, October.
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 Shannan?

Tell us your dates. A Lhasa specialist replies within one working day with a day-by-day plan and a price.