2025 Gyaca Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in May)

[Introduction]: Every lake in Shannan carries the most primitive beliefs and legends of Tibet. Whether exploring the prophetic power of Lhamo Latso or immersing yourself in the azure blue of Yamdrok Lake, this land will touch your soul with its ultimate purity and mystery. Remember to burn incense and pray for blessings before departure. May you find your own answers by the sacred lakes! ⛺[Travel Guide]: 1. Lhamo Latso (Sacred Lake) • Location: Within Gyaca County in Shannan, about 270 km from Lhasa. • Highlights: The most important lake-viewing holy site in Tibetan Buddhism; legend says you can see your past and present lives reflected in the lake surface. • Activities: ◦ Lake divination: Sit quietly by the lake in the early morning to observe reflections (requires clear weather). ◦ Circumambulate Lhamo Latso: Walk clockwise around the lake (about 3 hours, altitude 4,300m). • Tips: ◦ Border permit required (available in Gyaca County or Lhasa); ◦ The lake area is windy; easier to approach when the lake surface freezes in winter. 2. Yamdrok Yumtso (Yamdrok Lake) • Location: Langkazi County in Shannan, about 110 km from Lhasa. • Highlights: One of Tibet's three great sacred lakes; water as blue as a gemstone, shaped like coral branches. • Activities: ◦ Drive around the lake: Enjoy panoramic views from Gampala Pass, passing Ritoling Monastery (island temple in the lake). ◦ Puma Yumtso: Hidden blue ice lake on the southern shore of Yamdrok (blue ice photography in winter). • Tips: ◦ Best season: May-October (when the lake is bluest); ◦ Ritoling Monastery requires advance booking for transportation. 3. Zhegu Tso • Location: Comai County in Shannan, habitat for wild Tibetan donkeys. • Highlights: Highland lake and grassland scenery; golden meadows and snow mountain reflections in autumn. • Activities: ◦ Grassland hiking: Light trekking along the lake, occasional encounters with Tibetan antelopes and gazelles. ◦ Gudui Village: Experience Tibetan village life, making butter tea and tsampa. • Tips: ◦ Altitude 4,600m, take precautions against altitude sickness; ◦ No commercial facilities, bring your own food. 🛬[Itinerary]: Recommended Routes for In-depth Shannan Exploration Route 1: Lhasa → Yamdrok Lake → Lhamo Latso → Gyaca (3 days, 2 nights) • Day 1: Lhasa → Gampala Pass (overlooking Yamdrok Lake) → Ritoling Monastery → Langkazi County (overnight). • Day 2: Langkazi → Lhamo Latso (lake divination) → Gyaca County (overnight). • Day 3: Gyaca → Samye Monastery → Chimpuk Meditation Retreat → Return to Lhasa. Route 2: Shannan Cultural Circuit (5 days, 4 nights) • Day 1: Lhasa → Samye Monastery (first Buddhist monastery in Tibet) → Chimpuk Meditation Retreat (Guru Rinpoche's retreat site). • Day 2: Samye → Yamdrok Yumtso → Puma Yumtso (blue ice season) → Lhozhag County. • Day 3: Lhozhag → Kulha Kangri Mountain trek → Paima Lhatso (hidden lake). • Day 4: Lhozhag → Sekar Gutok Monastery (nine-story prince tower) → Lakang Town. • Day 5: Lakang → Lhamo Latso → Gyaca → Lhasa. 3. Cultural Experiences and Hidden Gems 1. Samye Monastery (First Buddhist Monastery in Tibet) • Highlights: Built under the supervision of Tibetan King Trisong Detsen, combining Tibetan, Chinese, and Indian architectural styles. • Activities: ◦ Circumambulation path: Walk clockwise around the Utse Main Hall to experience the fusion of Bon and Buddhism; ◦ Chimpuk Meditation Retreat: Behind Samye Monastery, Guru Rinpoche's meditation site, occasional encounters with ascetic monks. 2. Kulha Kangri Mountain Trek • Route: Jiejiucuo → Paima Lhatso → Kulha Kangri main peak (altitude 7,538m). • Highlights: Mountain reflections, highland lake clusters, ultimate Himalayan scenery. • Difficulty: Moderate (requires altitude adaptation, recommended to join professional teams). 3. Zhayangzong Caves (Bon Sacred Site) • Location: Se Township in Lhozhag County, about 2 hours' drive from the Kulha Kangri trek starting point. • Highlights: Thousand-year-old Bon meditation caves with rock paintings and relics of practitioners. • Taboos: Photography prohibited inside the caves; maintain silence. 🧡[Tips]: 1. Lhamo Latso Lake Viewing: ◦ Avoid visiting during rainy season (June-August) when heavy mist obscures reflections; ◦ Don't force your way to the lakeside; respect local warnings. 2. Dealing with Altitude Sickness: ◦ Shannan's average altitude is above 4,000m; avoid bathing and strenuous activities upon arrival; ◦ Bring oxygen bottles (available at Gyaca pharmacies, about 30 yuan/bottle). 3. Environmental Requirements: ◦ Take your trash with you (no waste disposal facilities at Chimpuk Meditation Retreat); ◦ Don't leave prayer flags by the lakes (Tibetans believe this pollutes sacred waters).

Hey friends, want to explore the natural wonders of Tibet? This four-day tour of Nyingchi and Shannan will show you the beauty of the snow-covered plateau. You won't want to miss it! / 📅Itinerary: D1: Lhasa River—Lhasa-Nyingchi Highway—Basum Tso—Island in the center of the lake—Kading Gou On the first day, we'll travel along the Lhasa River, passing through the picturesque Lhasa-Nyingchi Highway, and arrive at the beautiful Basum Tso. We'll experience the beauty of the lake and sky on the island in the center of the lake, and finally, we'll visit the mysterious Kading Gou to experience the magnificence and tranquility of nature. D2: Sejila Mountain—Lulang Forest—Yarlung Tsangpo Grand Canyon—Mount Namcha Barwa On the second day, we'll cross Sejila Mountain, admire the vast Lulang Forest, and explore the awe-inspiring Yarlung Tsangpo Grand Canyon. We might even get a glimpse of the majestic and mysterious Mount Namcha Barwa. D3: Palm-Shaped Sand Dunes—Reclining Dragon Stone—Lake Lhamo La-tso On the third day, we'll explore the unique Palm-Shaped Sand Dunes, admire the wonders of nature at Reclining Dragon Stone, and finally arrive at the sacred Lake Lhamo La-tso to experience the tranquility and holiness of this plateau lake. D4: Dagu Canyon Scenic Area—Rituo Temple—Yamdrok Lake—Potala Palace Yaowang Mountain Observation Deck On the last day, we'll visit the spectacular Dagu Canyon Scenic Area, the historic Rituo Temple, and the beautiful Yamdrok Lake. Finally, we'll ascend to the Potala Palace Yaowang Mountain Observation Deck for a panoramic view of Lhasa, bringing a perfect end to our journey. / Packing List: 👕 Clothing: The temperature in Nyingchi and Shannan in March is moderate, but there's a large difference between day and night temperatures. It's recommended to bring a light down jacket, thermal underwear, a windproof jacket, and a fleece jacket for warmth and ease of movement. 🎒 Accessories: Sunglasses and a sun hat are essential. Don't forget to apply plenty of sunscreen, as the UV rays on the plateau are intense. Also, remember to bring a pair of non-slip, breathable hiking shoes. 📖 Important Documents: Bring your ID card and passport, as well as your flight and hotel bookings. These are essential for your trip. 💊 Emergency Items: Prepare some common medicines, such as cold and pain relievers, and Rhodiola for altitude sickness. Oh, and an oxygen tank might be a good idea, just in case. 🔋 Other Essentials: Bring a power bank, a multi-functional adapter, a camera, and spare batteries. After all, you'll want to capture the stunning scenery. Alright, pack your bags and head to Nyingchi and Shannan to enjoy the beautiful scenery! 🎉 / Tibet trip, from Nyingchi to Shannan, accompanied by beautiful scenery all the way. Don't forget to bring your camera to capture your wonderful moments!

Hey guys, come and check out your Nyingchi & Shannan 4-day tour guide! This is all you need to explore the Tibetan landscape. Save it now so you don't get lost! -- 🚩Itinerary: D1: Niyang River Scenic Area -> Niyang River -> Basum Tso -> Xincuo -> Cuogao Village Immerse yourself in the scenery of the Niyang River, explore the tranquility of Basum Tso, and then stroll through Xincuo and Cuogao Village to experience the tranquility of nature and the simplicity of the village. D2: Basum Tso -> Yarlung Zangbo Grand Canyon -> Mount Namjagbarwa Start from Basum Tso, cross the spectacular Yarlung Zangbo Grand Canyon, look up at the majestic Mount Namjagbarwa, and enjoy the endless charm of nature. D3: Yani National Wetland Park -> Buddha Palm Dunes -> Lhamo La-tso -> Dagu Canyon Scenic Area -> Monkey Platform Explore the wonderful ecology of Yani Wetland Park, experience the uniqueness of Buddha Palm Dunes, visit the mystery of Lhamo La-tso, cross the magnificence of Dagu Canyon, and finally get up close and personal with the lovely monkeys. D4: Samye Monastery -> Ritod Monastery -> Yamdrok Lake -> Gampa La Mountain Visit the ancient Samye Monastery, experience the tranquility of Ritod Monastery, be amazed by the lake and mountain scenery of Yamdrok Lake, and finally climb Gampa La Mountain to overlook the magnificent plateau scenery.🏔️✨ This itinerary will take you to the beautiful scenery of Nyingchi & Shannan and experience the profound cultural heritage.🌈🌄 -- Travel Checklist: 🧳Nyingchi & Shannan Tour, you need to bring these! 👕 Clothing: Thick coat, thermal underwear, sweater to withstand the temperature difference between morning and evening. 👖 Pants: Fleece-lined pants, windproof and warm, not afraid of cold for outdoor activities. 🥾 Shoes: Non-slip and waterproof boots for complex terrain. 🎩 Headgear: Warm hat, sunglasses, sun protection and wind protection. 📲 Electronic devices: Mobile phone, power bank, stay connected at all times. 🎫 Documents: ID card, border pass, worry-free travel. 💊 Emergency items: Common medicines, first aid kit, safe travel is guaranteed. -- Nyingchi's peach blossoms and Shannan's snow-capped mountains, with beautiful scenery all the way, this trip will definitely be worth it!

7-day tour of Shannan, Basum Tso, and Xincuo. Explore the fusion of nature and culture, and experience a pure and mysterious journey. You can't miss it! -------- 📅Itinerary: Day 1: Potala Palace Square—Basum Tso—Lake Island—Cuogao Village On the first day, visit Potala Palace Square and experience Tibetan culture. Then head to Basum Tso to explore the beautiful Lake Island. Stay overnight in Cuogao Village and experience the original Tibetan life. Day 2: Xincuo—Yarlung Zangbo Grand Canyon On the second day, go deep into Xincuo and enjoy the tranquil beauty of the plateau lake. Then head to the spectacular Yarlung Zangbo Grand Canyon and feel the grandeur and mystery of nature. Day 3: Lhamo Latso On the third day, visit Lhamo Latso, a sacred lake known for reflecting past and present lives, mysterious and solemn. Day 4: Dagu Canyon Scenic Area—Samye Monastery—Qingpu Retreat On the fourth day, first visit Dagu Canyon Scenic Area and enjoy the magnificence of the canyon. Then visit the historic Samye Monastery, and finally go to Qingpu Retreat to feel the tranquility and power of religion. Day 5: Zhegu Grassland—Kagyud Monastery On the fifth day, stroll through Zhegu Grassland and enjoy the vastness and freedom of the plateau grassland. Then head to Kagyud Monastery, a temple hidden in the valley, tranquil and solemn. Day 6: Saikaguto Monastery On the sixth day, visit Saikaguto Monastery, which attracts tourists with its unique architectural style and profound cultural heritage. Day 7: Pumoyong Tso—Yamdrok Tso On the last day, first visit Pumoyong Tso and feel the tranquility and beauty of the plateau lake. Finally, arrive at Yamdrok Tso and end this unforgettable journey with beautiful memories. -------- Travel preparation: 👕 Clothing: It is recommended to wear windbreakers, coats, and other warm coats. Sweaters are also essential. 🎒 Accessories: Sunglasses, sun hats, and scarves to cope with the strong ultraviolet rays of the plateau. 💳 Documents: Bring your ID card, and also bring your student ID and driver's license if you have them. 💊 Medicine: Prepare Fenbid, Gaoyuanan, etc., to deal with possible altitude sickness. 🎥 Others: Don't forget your camera and power bank to record every beautiful moment of your journey! -------- Shannan, Basum Tso, and Xincuo, a refreshing journey. May you have a lot of fun and unforgettable memories here! 🌄

7-day tour of Shannan, Basum Tso, and Xincuo, with beautiful scenery along the way! This super detailed guide will help you explore every stop without taking any detours. Save it now! . 🚗Route Suggestions: DAY 1: Lhasa River -> Basum Tso -> Lake Island -> Cuogao Village On the first day, travel along the Lhasa River to the beautiful Basum Tso, visit the Lake Island with its stunning lake and mountain views, and finally explore the ancient Cuogao Village to experience the fusion of nature and culture. DAY 2: Xincuo -> Yarlung Zangbo Grand Canyon On the second day, explore the natural scenery of Xincuo, then head to the spectacular Yarlung Zangbo Grand Canyon to experience the magical charm of nature. DAY 3: Lhamo Latso On the third day, visit the mysterious Lhamo Latso and immerse yourself in the tranquility and beauty of the plateau lake. DAY 4: Dagu Canyon Scenic Area -> Samye Monastery -> Qiongpu Retreat On the fourth day, visit the Dagu Canyon Scenic Area, then head to the historic Samye Monastery, and finally visit the Qiongpu Retreat to experience the religious atmosphere. DAY 5: Zhegu Grassland -> Kaju Monastery On the fifth day, stroll through the Zhegu Grassland to enjoy the vastness and freedom of the grassland, then head to Kaju Monastery to experience the tranquility of temple life. DAY 6: Saika Guto Monastery On the sixth day, visit Saika Guto Monastery to experience its unique architectural style and rich cultural heritage. DAY 7: Pumoyong Tso -> Yamdrok Tso On the last day, visit Pumoyong Tso, then head to the picturesque Yamdrok Tso to end your pleasant journey. . **Notes**: * Food: You must try the buttered tsampa and Tibetan yogurt, which are full of energy and delicious. 🍽️ * Photo Spots: Xincuo Viewing Platform and Lake Island are great places to take photos! 📸 * December Weather: Warm and comfortable during the day, cold at night, so keep warm. 🧣 * Road Conditions: The road to Xincuo is rugged, so we recommend an SUV or off-road vehicle. 🚙 * Environmental Protection: Please protect the environment and do not litter when visiting the Sangtong Ranch and Xincuo. 🌳 * Accommodation: Accommodation is convenient in Basum Tso, so book in advance for peace of mind. 🏠 . Don't miss the secret places of Shannan, the beautiful lakes and mountains of Basum Tso, and the fairy tale forest of Xincuo. Come and explore! 🌲✨ Remember to like and save this post~💕

Hey guys! 7-day Shannan-Basum Tso tour, explore the mysterious Tibet! A super detailed guide is here, save it and start your dream trip now! . 🚗Route suggestions: DAY1: Lhasa River—Basum Tso—Heart Island—Cuogao Village Drive along the Lhasa River and explore the beautiful scenery of Basum Tso. Climb to Heart Island and enjoy the view of the water and sky. Finally, visit the ancient Cuogao Village and experience Tibetan style. DAY2: Xincuo—Yarlung Zangbo Grand Canyon Stroll through Xincuo and enjoy the beauty of nature. Then go deep into the Yarlung Zangbo Grand Canyon and explore the grandeur and mystery of the canyon. DAY3: Lhamo Latso Make a pilgrimage to Lhamo Latso and feel the tranquility and sanctity of the plateau lake, and let your soul be cleansed. DAY4: Dagu Canyon Scenic Area—Samye Monastery—Qingpu Retreat Visit Dagu Canyon and enjoy the scenery of the plateau canyon. Then visit Samye Monastery and feel the solemnity of Tibetan Buddhism. Finally, go to Qingpu Retreat and explore the spiritual world of the practitioners. DAY5: Zhegu Grassland—Kaju Monastery Drive through Zhegu Grassland and feel the vastness and magnificence of the plateau grassland. Then visit Kaju Monastery and enjoy the charm of Tibetan architecture. DAY6: Saika Guto Monastery Visit Saika Guto Monastery and feel the ancient religious atmosphere and explore the traces of history. DAY7: Pumoyong Tso—Yamdrok Tso Stroll along the shore of Pumoyong Tso and enjoy the tranquility of the plateau lake. Finally, come to Yamdrok Tso, enjoy the lake and mountain scenery, and end your pleasant journey. . Must-see tips: 📸 Photo spots: Basum Tso Heart Island, Jeba Village, don't miss the beautiful scenery! 🎈 Customs: Experience Tibetan song and dance, and learn about traditional festivals such as Shoton Festival. ❄️ November climate: The temperature difference between day and night is large, remember to bring warm coats and down jackets. 🥢 Local food: Be sure to try Tibetan fragrant pork and matsutake mushrooms, they are delicious! 🚗 Transportation advice: Self-driving or chartered tours are more convenient, pay attention to the plateau road conditions. 💊 Health reminder: Prevent altitude sickness, prepare medicine, and keep a good mood! . Don't hesitate, the beautiful scenery of Shannan-Basum Tso is waiting for you to explore, save this guide and start your dream trip now!

The secret hidden in Shannan: A dialogue between the soul and nature The secret hidden in Shannan🗝: A dialogue between the soul and nature🏞️🧘‍♂️ From the vast sky to the clean lakes, from the long history to the rich ethnic culture, the Shannan area carries the most precious treasures of Tibet. A journey of self-exploration begins here. 🚀Sangye Monastery: The starting point of blessing and tranquility Arriving at the magnificent Sangye Monastery, you can feel the solemnity and sanctity of Tibetan Buddhism. Every statue and mural there tells an unspeakable past. It is not only the home of pilgrims but also the starting point for every soul traveler. 🌄Yalong River: Encountering the ripples of nature Heading east, you reach the winding Yalong River. Listen to the dialogue between the breeze and the clear waves under the warm sun. At this moment, let go of all burdens, and the feeling of blending with nature will make you forget the troubles of the world. 🌟Lhamo La-tso: The mirror of the soul Continue forward to the sacred lake of Shannan, Lhamo La-tso, where the clear lake surface reflects your soul. It is said that the water in the lake can cleanse the dust of the soul. Sit quietly by the lake and touch that unprecedented peace. 🍀Lhozhag County: Deep into the heart of Tibetan culture In the depths of Shannan lies the essence of Tibetan life, Lhozhag County. Entering here is like walking into a living ethnic museum. Horse racing, Tibetan opera, each is a hymn celebrating life. 🌌Lang County starry sky: Dreaming back to the night of stars When night falls, choose an open space and set up a tent under the starry sky of Lang County. Millions of stars, like gems twinkling in the night sky, quietly tell ancient legends. **Travel Tips:** - Capture the spectacular natural scenery and profound cultural history, and remember to bring spare batteries and memory cards! - Seize every sunrise and sunset; they are incredibly stunning in Shannan. - Wear suitable hiking gear; the beauty of Shannan also requires hiking to discover. - Respect local religious beliefs and cultural customs, dress appropriately, and behave politely. Welcome to Shannan, a paradise for soul travelers. Every corner hides the treasures of Tibetan culture, waiting for you to discover with your heart. Are you ready? The secrets of Shannan are beckoning you.🚩

The best journey in life is when you discover a long-lost feeling in a strange place. You must go to Tibet to see the beautiful scenery of Tibet, taste Tibetan food, and explore the secrets of Tibet. Itinerary: D1 Lhasa - Yarlung Zangbo River Valley - Samye Monastery - Yongbulakang - Gyaltsag D2: Jiacha-Lam Lacuo-Dago Canyon-Gondelin Grassland-Yarlung Zangbo River Grand Canyon-Suosong Village (Close view of Mount Namjagbarwa) D3 Suosong Village - Yani Wetland Park - Niyang River Scenery - Basongcuo - Lhasa Kind tips: 1. Shoes: bring a pair of comfortable hiking shoes (sandals and leather shoes are not recommended) 2. Weather: The weather in Tibet is mainly sunny because the climate here is relatively dry. The sunshine time is long, so it is recommended to bring sunglasses, sun hat, umbrella, lip balm, and sunscreen. Moisturizing lotion, scarf, etc. 3. Electronic photography equipment: mobile phone communication tools, cameras and other photography equipment and chargers, electronic Please take good care of and protect the equipment when carrying and using it.

Lhamo Latso can definitely be counted as one of the more obscure lakes in Tibet. Compared to the highly famous and popular tourist spots like Yamdrok Lake and Namtso Lake in Nagqu, this place is much quieter. You can sit by the lake, watch the reflection of the clouds, leisurely have lunch, and drink a cup of coffee. Your car can be parked right beside the lake waters, playing music, how pleasant. Lhamo Latso is located in the Qukoji Mountains of Gacha County, at an altitude of over 4000 meters, about 65 kilometers from the county town. It is known as the holy lake held up by lotus flowers, but it is little known to the outside world and rarely visited. Lhamo Latso is one of the most legendary lakes in Tibet, 'Lhamo' means fairy or goddess, 'La' means lake surface, and 'Lhamo Latso' in Tibetan means 'Auspicious Goddess Lake' or 'Holy Goddess Lake'. Every year from April to June in the Tibetan calendar, many faithful men and women come here for pilgrimage and sightseeing. It is said that when many people view it together, they see different things, and it is said that one can see their future in the reflection of the lake. This place is not too far from the Everest Base Camp, and you can stop by for a visit after leaving the Mount Everest National Geopark.

Legend has it that this lake can reveal one's past and future lives. Lhamo La-tso is located northeast of the county town, about 65 kilometers away from the county town. This lake, with an area of only 1 square kilometer, is one of Tibet's legendary lakes, where it is said you can see your past and future lives. Opening hours: All day 🚉Transportation strategy: Transportation methods 1 Self-driving 2 Take the train from Lhasa to Gyaca, and then hire a car locally to get there 3 Hire a car from Lhasa, after all, there are many scenic spots along the way 💰Average cost per person: Ticket: 50 yuan In winter, when there is heavy snow, the roads will be closed. During the mountain closure period, entry is also not allowed "Lhamo La-tso" is indeed a sacred lake held aloft by lotuses. But little known to the outside world, it is rarely visited, hidden deep in the belly of the snow land, like a concealed basic pearl, seldom touched by a fortunate hand. Lhamo La-tso is one of the most legendary lakes in Tibet. "Lhamo" means fairy or goddess, "La" means lake surface, and "Lhamo La-tso" in Tibetan means "Auspicious Goddess Lake" or "Sacred Goddess Lake". Also known as Qiongguo Jie Divine Lake, it is located among the Qukog Jie mountains in Gyaca County Freezing period of Lhamo La-tso? The freezing period of Lhamo La-tso lasts for 7 months, and if you want to see something unusual, it is best to come between May and October. Lake viewing tips: 1 The higher the altitude, the lower the temperature, so no matter when you go, pay attention to keeping warm 2 There are prayer flags and papers with scriptures floating all over the mountain, do not trample on them 3 Respect the customs, aerial photography is prohibited here, and remember not to make loud noises 4 You need to climb a long flight of stairs from the parking lot, the altitude here is over 5000 meters, do not rush, adjust your breathing slowly to avoid altitude sickness Reference time for sightseeing: 1-2 hours

But little known to the outside world, rarely visited, deep in the snow field, like a hidden basic pearl,. "Lhamo Latso" is exactly the holy lake held up by the lotus. But little known to the outside world, rarely visited, deep in the snow field, like a hidden basic pearl, very few lucky hands touch. Lhamo Latso is the most legendary lake in Tibet. "Lhamo" means fairy, goddess, "La" means lake surface, "Lhamo Latso" in Tibetan means "Auspicious Tiamu Lake", "Holy Mumu Lake". Also known as Qiongguo Jie Shen Lake, in the mountains of Qukuo Jie in Gacha County

Ramla is in the Shannan area of Tibet. The name in Tibetan means the soul of the goddess lake. According to the legendary image of the lake, the predecessors and the afterlife of the gods are also seen in the images of the past and present. Tibetan Buddhism Before visiting the reincarnation of the Living Buddha, it is necessary to visit the lake. The altitude is higher and there are fewer tourists. When climbing, the Tibetan compatriots will help the physically weak tourists, especially friendly. You can also drive to the lake, but as you climb high, you can see her beauty.