Nam Tso is situated approximately 190 km north-west of Lhasa at an altitude of 4718 m. It is one of the most famous lakes in Tibet as well as being a very important pilgrimage sight. In the Tibetan “Nam” means Sky and “Tso” means Lake, “the Heavenly Lake”. The lake plays sanctuary to many species of migrating birds and other local birds.
It is the second largest saltwater lake in China, the first being Koko Nor (Qinghai Lake) in Qinghai province, and the largest saltwater lake in Tibet. Next to this it is also the highest one in the world. It is approximately 70km long and 30km wide. The Nyenchen Tanglha (Tangula) range, with peaks of more than 7000m, towers over the lake to the south. It is a tidal lake and the ring marks of earlier lake levels are clearly visible by the shoreline. The Lake is easily accessible from Lhasa. While driving to Nam Tso from Lhasa, we cross over the high pass of Yangpachen (5630 m.). It takes at least 21 days to circle the shores of the entire lake. In clear weather the water is a miraculous shade of turquoise and there are magnificent views of the nearby mountains. The wide open spaces, dotted with the tents of local drokpas (nomads) are intoxicating.
The best season for trekking in Nam Tso Lake is late May to October, however you must be prepared at all times for wet weather, snow and cold winds. It is a very remote region so we will carry camping, kitchen equipments and other provision for the entire trekking part.