Winter Namtso Travel Guide | A Secret Wonderland with Few Tourists

Have you been to Namtso in summer? But have you seen it in winter? Winter Namtso is a secret wonderland for a few people. The snow-capped mountains, lakes, and blue sky are intertwined, like a fairyland on earth. Here is a super practical winter Namtso travel guide to help you unlock a different kind of beauty! 1⃣️ Best Travel Time 👍 Namtso is the most tranquil from November to March. The lake water is a rich blue-green color in the sunlight, and the snow-covered Nyenchen Tanglha Mountains add a holy atmosphere. ‼️ It is recommended to avoid the peak of the Lunar New Year from late January to early February. Off-peak travel is a better experience. 2⃣️ How to Get There • Transportation 🛻 • Self-driving from Lhasa: The whole journey is about 250 km and takes about 4 hours. It is recommended to rent a car or charter a car. The road conditions in winter are more complicated, so it is recommended to choose an experienced driver. • One-day group tour: Many travel agencies in Lhasa offer one-day winter tours to Namtso, which is convenient and worry-free. 3⃣️ Notes • Altitude sickness preparation: Namtso is 4,718 meters above sea level. Friends who are visiting the plateau for the first time should take anti-altitude sickness medicine in advance and keep a slow pace. • Cold protection equipment: The temperature in Namtso in winter can be as low as -20°C. Be sure to prepare thick down jackets, windproof gloves, scarves, and warm shoes. • Dietary precautions: Prepare hot water, chocolate, and high-calorie food in advance. There are few supplies in the scenic area, and the prices are high. 4⃣️ Must-visit Spots • Panoramic view of Nyenchen Tanglha Mountains: Stop on the way to look into the distance. The snow-capped mountains and grasslands are distinct, and the photos are super beautiful. • Ice layer by the lake: Part of the lake surface is frozen in winter, forming a natural mirror, reflecting the blue sky and white clouds, like a fairyland. • Tashi Peninsula: Walk by the lake and feel the tranquility of the holy lake. You can also meet a herd of yaks walking leisurely in the snow. 5⃣️ Travel Tips • Accommodation recommendation: The accommodation in the Namtso scenic area is closed in winter. It is recommended to stay in Lhasa. You can take a break in Damxung County on the way back. • Photography tips: The sunrise time in winter is late. The light by the lake is best after 9 am. Remember to bring a wide-angle lens and a windproof tripod. • Eco-friendly travel: Namtso is a holy lake in the hearts of Tibetans. Please do not litter and keep the environment clean. 6⃣️ Must-have List • Skincare products: High SPF sunscreen, moisturizing spray, lip balm • Medicine: Anti-altitude sickness medicine, cold medicine, band-aids • Equipment: Power bank, thermos, camera This winter, let's go to Namtso to experience a different kind of tranquility and beauty! If you also plan to go, you might as well bookmark this guide to make your trip smoother~