The bluest dreamland—Yamdrok Lake

Yamdrok Lake, also known as Yamdrok Yumtso, means 'Jade Lake' in Tibetan and is one of the three holy lakes of Tibet. It resembles coral branches, hence it is also called 'Upper Coral Lake' in Tibetan. Located in Langkazi County of Shannan region in Tibet, about 70 kilometers southwest of Lhasa, it is named alongside Namtso and Mapam Yumtso as one of the three great holy lakes of Tibet and is the largest inland lake on the northern slope of the Himalayas. The beauty of its lake and surrounding mountains is unparalleled in southern Tibet. Yamdrok Lake covers an area of about 675 square kilometers, with an altitude of 4,998 meters. To reach Yamdrok from Lhasa, one must cross the Gampala Pass at 5,030 meters. The lake surface is calm and a deep turquoise, like a sapphire on the plateau of southern Tibet. Yamdrok Lake is famous for its crystal-clear waters and magnificent natural landscape. The lake's water comes from the melting snow and glaciers of the surrounding mountains, giving it a vibrant green color that is extremely clear and transparent. The surrounding mountains rise and fall, and the grasslands stretch far and wide, offering a spectacular view. Yamdrok Lake is a unique natural scenic area that integrates plateau lakes, snow-capped mountains, islands, pastures, hot springs, wildlife, plants, and temples. It is known as one of the three great heavenly lakes of Tibet, along with Namtso and Mapam Yumtso.