Located just 20 kilometers from Mount Kailash, Lake Manasarovar is one of the most revered destinations in western Tibet. The lake is not only believed to purify sins and offer spiritual liberation, but also provides breathtaking views of turquoise waters and surrounding snow-capped mountains.

To visit the lake, you can start from either Lhasa or Kathmandu - both routes offer an epic journey. For a deeper experience, consider combining it with the sacred three-day Mount Kailash trek, a spiritual adventure not to be missed.

To help you better understand Lake Manasarovar and how to visit it, we’ve put together the ultimate guide. Discover where it is, how to get there, the best time to visit, top itineraries, and more. Get ready for a smooth and unforgettable journey!

Where is Lake Manasarovar in Tibet? Why is It Considered Sacred?

Lake Manasarovar is located in Burang County of Ngari Prefecture, in far western Tibet. It lies about 20 kilometers southeast of Mount Kailash and over 1200 kilometers from Lhasa. At an elevation of about 4590 meters, the lake is one of the highest freshwater lakes in the world.

Lake Manasarovar is one of the Three Holy Lakes in Tibet, along with Namtso Lake and Yamdrok Lake. Many pilgrims believe that bathing in the lake can wash away all sins, and drinking its water can help prevent illness. Walking around the lake (a ritual known as kora) is also believed to bring immense spiritual merit.

For Buddhists, the lake is associated with the legendary journey of Padmasambhava, who brought Buddhism to Tibet. In both Jain and Bon traditions, the lake is seen as a symbol of divine power and spiritual liberation.

Lake Manasarovar is also closely linked to Mount Kailash, which is considered the center of the universe. Many tourists and pilgrims visit the lake before or after completing the kora around the mountain. Together, these two sacred sites form the most important pilgrimage route in western Tibet.

Join our classic Mount Kailash tour to visit both the holy mountain and lake.

How to Get to Lake Manasarovar? From Lhasa or Kathmandu

The most popular way to reach Lake Manasarovar is to travel overland from Lhasa. The journey first follows the G318 Highway and travel westwards via Yamdrok Lake, Shigatse and Everest Base Camp. Then it turns northwest through Saga and Darchen before finally reaching the Lake Manasarovar.

Covering around 1200 meters, the road trip from Lhasa to Lake Manasarovar takes about 15 days for a round trip. It allows for gradual acclimatization to the high altitude and offers the best highlights of Tibet.

If you start from Kathmandu, you can travel overland via the Gyirong border, which connects Nepal and Tibet. First, travel about 120 km from Kathmandu to Gyirong. From there, it’s another 593 kilometers to Lake Manasarovar via Saga and Darchen.

Besides, for a faster journey, you can take a flight from Lhasa to Ngari Gunsa Airport, and then continue overland to Lake Manasarovar. However, flight availability can be limited due to changeable weather, and the costs are relatively higher.

When is the Best Time to Visit Lake Manasarovar?

Lake Manasarovar is accessible from April to October, with the best times to visit being from May to June and from September to October. During these months, the weather is most favorable, offering clear skies, pleasant temperatures, and stunning views.

This period also marks the peak pilgrimage season, especially during the Saga Dawa Festival, which falls on June 11, 2025, and May 31, 2026. This important festival celebrates the birth, enlightenment, and death of the Buddha, and is considered the most sacred and significant religious event in Tibet.

The summer months of July and August are also a pleasant time to visit Lake Manasarovar. Although there may be occasional rain showers, the plateau becomes vibrant with colorful flowers and lush vegetation, making it a great time for photography.

In contrast, the winter season should be avoided when traveling in the Ngari region. The weather can be extremely cold, and heavy snowfall often causes road closures.

What are the Top Things to Experience at Lake Manasarovar?

When visiting Lake Manasarovar, you can appreciate its breathtaking views. The lake features turquoise water that changes color with the sunlight, often reflecting the clear images of Mount Kailash and the nearby snow-capped peaks.

For both pilgrims and trekking lovers, one of the most profound experiences is doing the kora around the lake. Covering about 100 kilometers, the kora takes around 5 days to complete and offers a deeply enriching journey.

You can also visit the five Buddhist monasteries surrounding the lake - Chiu, Langbona, Seralung, Trupo, and Gossul. From these temples, you can enjoy panoramic views of Lake Manasarovar and the surrounding mountains, while experiencing the peaceful and spiritual atmosphere.

For birdwatchers and nature lovers, the area near the lake is full of wildlife. You may spot wild donkeys, Tibetan yaks, and antelopes roaming the grasslands. In summer, many migratory birds, such as bar-headed geese and ruddy shelducks, often visit the lake, adding to the beauty of the natural scenery.

Explore the best of Lake Manasarovar with our classic Mount Kailash tour.

Recommended Itineraries to Visit Lake Manasarovar in Tibet

To truly appreciate Lake Manasarovar, it’s best to include it as part of a longer journey through western Tibet. One of the most popular itineraries is the 15-day Mount Kailash and Lake Manasarovar tour from Lhasa. This tour includes a three-day trek around Mt. Kailash and also allows you to admire Mount Everest up close along the way.

You’ll begin with three days exploring Lhasa’s highlights, such as the Potala Palace and Jokhang Temple. From there, you’ll travel westward through Yamdrok Lake, Gyantse, Shigatse, and Everest Base Camp before eventually reaching Lake Manasarovar and Mount Kailash. This route offers a perfect balance of cultural landmarks, natural wonders, and gradual altitude acclimatization.

Another option is the 10-day Kathmandu to Kailash Manasarovar tour via the Gyirong border. This journey is ideal for those entering Tibet from Nepal and features a scenic drive across the Himalayas. It allows you to focus on the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra while enjoying the breathtaking landscapes of western Tibet.

As a leading Tibet tour operator with years of experience, we can help you customize your Kailash Manasarovar tour according to your preferences. Whether you are interested in the region’s natural beauty or seeking spiritual fulfillment, we’ll create the perfect journey for you. Just contact us and share your travel ideas!

More Travel Tips for Touring Lake Manasarovar in Tibet

1. Acclimatize Properly: Lake Manasarovar lies at a high altitude, so it’s crucial to acclimatize gradually. Avoid strenuous activity during the first few days and watch for symptoms of altitude sickness, such as headaches, dizziness, or nausea. Stay well-hydrated throughout your journey.

2. Prepare for Basic Accommodation: Due to the lake’s remote location, accommodation options are limited. It’s recommended to stay in Darchen, the nearest town to Lake Manasarovar, which offers modest hotels with simple bedding and meals.

3. Obtain the Required Permits: Traveling to Lake Manasarovar requires multiple permits: the Tibet Travel Permit, the Alien Travel Permit, and the Military Permit. These must be arranged in advance, and we can assist in securing them on your behalf.

4. Pack for Variable Weather: Weather at Lake Manasarovar can change quickly. Even in summer, nighttime temperatures can drop below freezing. Pack thermal layers, a windproof jacket, warm gloves, a hat, and other cold-weather gear.

5. Protect Against Sun and Dryness: The high-altitude sun is strong, and the air is dry. Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, lip balm, and moisturizing lotion to protect your skin and eyes.

We will take care of everything for you to enjoy a smooth Kailash Manasarovar trip.

Conclusion

Lake Manasarovar is a deeply spiritual destination for those seeking inner meaning, and it also offers stunning natural beauty for nature lovers. The best way to visit the lake is through an overland tour from Lhasa to Mount Kailash and Lake Manasarovar, which not only helps with altitude acclimatization but also lets you experience the very best of Tibet.

As the leading Tibet tour operator based in Lhasa, we’re here to make your Kailash Manasarovar tour smooth and worry-free. We can assist with permits, transportation, local Tibetan guides, comfortable accommodations, and more. Feel free to contact us or book your tour with us today!