Morning at Gurudongmar Lake
Vehicles reach a parking area above the lake and you walk down a short slope to the shore. The water is blue or frozen depending on the month, with the Kangchengyao massif behind. Prayer flags and a small shrine stand by the edge.
Walk slowly, even downhill, because climbing back up is harder than it looks. Take your pictures, spend a few quiet minutes and head back while you still feel well. Do not throw anything into the lake.
Questions travellers ask
Good to know
Is there a fee at the lake?
There is no separate fee at the lake for Indian visitors on a permitted package. The permit and vehicle are covered by your operator. Carry your original ID for the army checks on the way. Your driver will hand over papers at each checkpost on the way.
Are there toilets or shops at the lake?
Facilities are very limited, and depending on the season there may be none at the lake. Use the toilets at Thangu on the way up. Carry water and a snack. Tea and simple snacks are sold at Thangu, but carry your own snack for the lake itself.
Can I walk around the lake?
No. Stay near the viewing area and the shrine. Walking further is tiring at this height and parts of the area are restricted by the army. Follow any instructions from army staff, and do not stray beyond the marked area for photographs.
Also in Gurudongmar Lake
More hours to plan around
