Yamdrok Lake

羊湖 · Sacred Lake · Shannan

Yamdrok Lake, one of Tibet's three great sacred lakes, spreads like turquoise coral branches 4,441 metres above sea level. The Gampa La Pass viewpoint, two hours from Lhasa, delivers the classic first panorama over its island-dotted waters.

See stays
TypeSacred Lake
Visit lengthAbout 2 hours
TicketsSample price ¥60
Opening hoursOpen all day; clearest views in morning light

Overview

Quick facts about Yamdrok Lake

Quick answer

Yamdrok Lake, one of Tibet's three great sacred lakes, spreads like turquoise coral branches 4,441 metres above sea level. The Gampa La Pass viewpoint, two hours from Lhasa, delivers the classic first panorama over its island-dotted waters.

TypeSacred Lake
Visit lengthAbout 2 hours
TicketsSample price ¥60
Opening hoursOpen all day; clearest views in morning light

How to visit

Practical advice from our Lhasa team.

  • Bus: Day tours from Lhasa via Gampa La Pass (4,990m), ~2h drive

Hotels near Yamdrok Lake

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. Winter is cold and dry, with fewer visitors and lower hotel prices.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec24°-9°130 mm
Daily highDaily lowRain
BestGoodCold or limited access

Nearby

Questions

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.
Your guide books timed entry when we confirm the tour. Sample price ¥60

Visiting Shannan?

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