A hidden gem with mystery, sanctity, and beauty

Located in Pulan County, Ngari Prefecture, Tibet Autonomous Region, Lake Manasarovar is one of the three sacred lakes in Tibet, attracting many tourists and believers with its sacred, mysterious, and beautiful natural scenery. Location and natural features Lake Manasarovar is located about 35 km east of Pulan County, at an altitude of 4,588 meters. It is an inland freshwater lake with clear water and a transparency of up to 14 meters. The lake covers an area of 412 square kilometers, with a length of 26 km, a maximum width of 21 km, and an average width of 15.84 km. Lake Manasarovar is an inland lake formed by floods and glacial water in front of the Gangdise Mountains, with an average annual temperature of about 2°C, an annual precipitation of about 168.6 mm, and an evaporation of up to 2,197.4 mm. Travel information Best viewing point: There are many temples around Lake Manasarovar, among which the hillside next to Jiwu Temple is recognized as the best viewing point, where you can enjoy a panoramic view of Lake Manasarovar. In addition, there are two recommended viewing points along National Highway G564 towards Pulan County: Jiwu Temple and Lake Manasarovar Viewing Platform. Travel season: The best travel season is from June to August, when there is less rainfall and the lake is clearer. Transportation: From Pulan County, you can take a sightseeing bus to the lake, or choose to hike or drive there. When hiking, be aware that the wetland is soft, so it is recommended to wear appropriate shoes. Cultural and historical background Lake Manasarovar has a high status in Tibetan Buddhism, and pilgrims often come to the lake to turn the prayer wheel. The lake means "eternal undefeated jade lake" in Tibetan, named after a religious battle on the lake in the 11th century, when the Kagyu sect of Tibetan Buddhism won a great victory over the black sect. In addition, Lake Manasarovar is not only the source of the Ganges and Indus rivers, but also the cradle of ancient civilizations, including the ancient Xiangxiong civilization and Tibetan civilization.