Tibet’s stunning sacred lakes offer travelers both serene beauty and profound spiritual encounters. This 7-day journey combines the turquoise shores of Yamdrok and Namtso with explorations of ancient valleys, hillside monasteries, and living Tibetan rituals.

Lake & Valley Highlights

  • Witness sunrise and sunset over Yamdrok Lake, one of Tibet’s three great holy lakes.
  • Make a lake pilgrimage to Namtso, a vast blue expanse embraced by snow-capped peaks.
  • Visit Tsurphu Monastery, home of the Karmapa lineage, in a secluded highland valley.
  • Explore rural villages, prayer flag fields, and hillside temples along the way.
  • Encounter yak herders, Buddhist pilgrims, and local artisans in intimate valley settings.

7-Day Lake & Valley Pilgrimage Itinerary

  • Day 1: Arrival in Lhasa
    Rest and acclimatize. Stroll Barkhor Street, visit Jokhang Temple for initial spiritual orientation.
  • Day 2: Tsurphu Monastery & Highland Valley
    Early drive to Tsurphu Monastery; walk quiet trails, observe monk rituals, and enjoy panoramic valley views.
  • Day 3: Yamdrok Lake Pilgrimage
    Journey across Kamba La Pass, reach Yamdrok’s turquoise shore. Enjoy lakeside meditation and photography.
  • Day 4: Village Exploration & Local Life
    Visit traditional villages near Yamdrok, sample Tibetan home cooking, and interact with local families.
  • Day 5: Overland to Namtso Lake
    Drive the scenic route to Namtso, passing snowy mountains and grazing pastures. Sunset photography at the lake.
  • Day 6: Namtso Lake Pilgrimage & Reflection
    Walk around Namtso’s sacred sites, meet pilgrims completing the Kora, and practice quiet reflection in nature.
  • Day 7: Return to Lhasa & Departure
    Journey back through valleys, stopping in artisan villages for last crafts and cultural encounters.

Travel Tips

  • High altitude requires careful acclimatization; plan easy first days and drink plenty of water.
  • Pack layers, sun protection, and gloves — weather at Tibetan lakes changes quickly.
  • Lake pilgrimages are sacred; join quietly, respect rituals, and ask before photos.
  • Bring snacks, cash, and a translator app for remote village stops.
  • Yak herding and crafts make excellent topics for patient, respectful photography.