Lhasa to Gyantse to Shigatse: Yamdrok Lake + Karola Glacier
After breakfast, you will depart from Lhasa and drive for about 8-9 hours (about 270 km) to Shigatse, the center of Tsang.
On the way, you will first cross the [Gampa La Pass] at an altitude of 4,990 meters. From the pass, you can take in a panoramic view of Yamdrok Lake drifting among the mountains like a blue ribbon and the majestic Noijin Kangsang Snow Mountain in the distance. Then continue toward Yamdrok Lake, the highest freshwater lake in the world, and appreciate its beauty from multiple angles, including the mountainside and the lakeshore. [Yamdrok Lake] is one of the three great sacred lakes of Tibet and is also praised as the most beautiful water in the world. The lake is as clear as a mirror, stretching into the distance and merging with the distant snow mountains. Together with the rolling mountains on both sides, the scenery is absolutely stunning. The local Tibetan people praise Yamdrok Lake in folk songs: "A fairyland in heaven, Yamdrok on earth. Stars in the sky, cattle and sheep by the lake."
Afterward, the car will continue driving along the shore of Yamdrok Lake for a while, allowing you to see the beautiful lake again. Then head to visit [Karo La Glacier], the most accessible glacier in Tibet. The glacier is right beside the road, like a giant thangka hanging on the cliff face, crystal clear and pure white, so close that it seems within reach. You can admire the towering glacier from the roadside or walk to its foot for a close-up view of its grandeur.
Visiting tips
1. The Karo La Glacier scenic area is at a high altitude, over 5,000 meters. When walking along the boardwalk, please slow down. You may also carry a small oxygen bottle and inhale oxygen to relieve discomfort if needed.
2. Please beware of photo traps. If a stranger offers to take photos for you, ask in advance whether there is a charge.
Afterward, continue to Shigatse and stay overnight in a star-rated hotel in Shigatse.
🍽️ Breakfast included
🏨 Shigatse