Manasarovar Lake

Located in the south of Mount Kailash in Ngari region, Manasarovar Lake, regarded as the holy land “world center” by Buddhist and Bonist, is the most transparent freshwater lake in China. As one of Tibet’s three sacred lakes (other two are Yamdrok Lake and Namtso Lake), Manasarovar Lake is said to be the cradle of four great rivers in Asia. It features hot springs, extensive grassland and rich fishing resources, with 8 temples surrounding it.

Manasarovar means victory in Tibetan language, originated from a big religious conflict happening along the lake in 11th century. Like Mount Kailash, Manasarovar Lake is a place of pilgrimage, attracting religious people from India, Nepal, Tibet and the neighboring countries. In each summer and autumn, Buddhist head to the lake to make pilgrimages together with family. Pilgrims come to perform the kora, the sacred clockwise walk around the lake, and to take ceremonial baths in the cleansing waters. Bathing in the lake and drinking its water is believed to cleanse all sins committed over even a hundred lifetimes.

The best trekking time is between May and October; you can follow the pilgrims to circle the lake to experience the holy atmosphere. In case of getting sick, it’s better to carry adequate food and clothes, sleeping bag, sufficient medicine, etc., to resist the bad condition. En route, you can not only appreciate the beautiful natural landscape and experience the adventurous circuit, but also get acquaintance with many scenic spots and historical sites, and even enjoy a hot spring.