Basum Lake

Hidden in the forested highlands of eastern Tibet, Basum Lake (Basong Co) is a sacred turquoise lake ringed by snow peaks and dense conifer woods. At its heart floats Tsozong Gonpa, a small Nyingma monastery on an island reached by a traditional wooden bridge. Our private guides handle the permits, the long drive from Lhasa or Nyingchi, and the timing, so you simply step out and take in the view.

What it is

Basum Lake, known in Tibetan as Basong Co, sits at about 3,700 metres in Gongbo'gyamda County, roughly 120 kilometres east of Lhasa and within reach of Nyingchi. It is one of the most revered lakes of the Nyingma tradition, the oldest school of Tibetan Buddhism, often called the Red Hat school. The lake's name is said to mean 'three rocks' in Tibetan, referring to the three sacred stones near the outlet. Pilgrims have circled its shores for centuries, and the island monastery, Tsozong Gonpa, was founded in the 17th century and remains an active place of worship.

The lake is the centrepiece of the Basum Lake Scenic Area, a national 5A-rated site that also includes the nearby Zhagou and Zhongcuo valleys. The water shifts from deep jade to bright turquoise depending on the light, and the surrounding mountains rise to over 5,000 metres. Because it lies lower than many Tibetan lakes, the area is greener, with cypress, pine and rhododendron forests. Visiting requires a Tibet Travel Permit and often an alien's travel permit for the region; we arrange these in advance and pair the lake with Nyingchi's other sights.

Highlights

Tsozong Gonpa — A small Nyingma monastery on the lake's island, reached by a wooden bridge; inside are murals, statues and a sacred stone said to bear a footprint.
Turquoise waters — The lake's colour changes with the sky, from emerald to deep blue; the best views are from the bridge and the small hill behind the monastery.
Kora circuit — A gentle 2-3 hour pilgrim path circles the lake shore, passing prayer flags, mani stones and quiet forest, with constant water views.
Zhagou Valley — A side valley with a boardwalk over wetlands, horses grazing and a viewpoint over the lake; included in the scenic area ticket.
Snow peaks and forest — The lake is framed by peaks such as Mount Jomo and dense conifer woods, offering a softer, greener side of Tibet.

Visitors crossing a wooden bridge to Tsozong Gonpa island in Basum Lake

How to get there

Most travellers reach Basum Lake from Lhasa (about 5-6 hours by private vehicle) or from Nyingchi (about 2-3 hours). There is no public train or regular bus for foreigners, so a private car with a licensed Tibetan guide is the norm. We arrange the Tibet Travel Permit and the alien's travel permit for Gongbo'gyamda in advance. The drive crosses the Mila Pass (over 5,000 metres), so we build in acclimatisation. It works well as a full-day trip from Nyingchi or an overnight stop en route between Lhasa and Nyingchi.

Tickets & practical info

Scenic area ticket: ¥120 in high season (May-Oct), ¥60 in low season; monastery entry is included. Opening hours are roughly 9:00-18:00, with last entry around 17:00. Book through your guide or tour operator; foreign cards are not accepted at the gate, so bring cash or use WeChat Pay/Alipay linked to an international card. Your guide can handle payment if needed.

Best time to visit

Late spring (May-June) and autumn (September-October) offer the clearest skies and calmest water, with rhododendrons in bloom in spring and golden larch in autumn. July and August are greener but wetter, with occasional rain and cloud. Arrive early morning for mirror-like reflections and fewer tour groups; the light is best before 11:00 and again after 16:00.

Tips from our guides

Altitude is around 3,700 metres, so take it slow on your first day; drink water, avoid alcohol and consider a short rest before the kora walk.
The wooden bridge to Tsozong Gonpa can be slippery when wet; wear shoes with good grip and watch your step.
Photography inside the monastery may be restricted; look for signs or ask your guide before taking pictures of monks or shrines.
Bring cash in small notes for donations, butter lamps or snacks; ATMs are scarce and foreign cards rarely work in this area.
If you plan to circle the lake, allow 2-3 hours and carry sun protection, a hat and a light rain jacket, as weather changes quickly.

Colorful prayer flags and carved mani stones by Basum Lake

FAQ

Do I need a special permit to visit Basum Lake?

Yes. All foreign visitors need a Tibet Travel Permit, and because Basum Lake lies outside Lhasa, an alien's travel permit for Gongbo'gyamda is also required. We arrange both as part of your tour.

Can I visit Basum Lake as a day trip from Lhasa?

It is possible but long, around 5-6 hours each way. Most travellers prefer to visit from Nyingchi or stop overnight en route. We can tailor the itinerary to your pace and acclimatisation.

Is the lake accessible for those with limited mobility?

The main viewpoints and the bridge are reachable with a short walk, but the kora path is uneven and includes steps. Let us know your needs and we can plan a shorter, easier route.

What should I wear or bring?

Dress in layers, as mornings are cold and afternoons can be mild. Bring sun protection, a hat, rain gear, sturdy shoes and cash. A small backpack is useful for the walk.