Siling Tso: the Largest Majestic Lake in Tibet
Siling Tso, spanning 2,391 square kilometers and sitting 4,530 meters above sea level, has earned the title of Tibet's biggest lake and China's second-largest saltwater lake. Unlike crowded sacred lakes, thus, it is Northern Tibet's hidden gem, where wilderness takes center stage.
Unlike other Tibetan lakes framed by lofty mountains, Siling Tso rests in a gentle basin of the Changtang Plateau, surrounded by rolling grasslands, marshes, and isolated hills. This unique topography creates an unparalleled sense of boundless space. From any point along its shores, your gaze can travel unimpeded across the water until sky and lake merge into a single breathtaking canvas of blue. This feeling of infinite expanse is something even the famous "Three Holy Lakes" of Tibet cannot match. Here, you'll find no tourist crowds or commercial developments—just you and one of nature's most magnificent creations.
The 600-kilometer journey from Lhasa to Siling Tso is quite a scenic route. You'll pass Yangbajing, famous for its hot springs—perfect to soak your tired muscles after hours of overland journey. Next up is the Nyenchen Tangula Mountain viewing platform, where you can snap postcard-worthy shots of snow-capped peaks. Then there's Damxung County, just a short detour from Namtso if you want to add another lake to your itinerary.
As you approach Siling Tso, prepare to be mesmerized by its stunning chromatic display. The lake's waters shift and transform throughout the day from deep cobalt to brilliant turquoise and even emerald green, depending on the sunlight and weather conditions. This spectacular color show, set against the backdrop of the vast Tibetan sky, creates a photographer's paradise. The ever-changing hues lend the landscape an almost magical quality that will leave you spellbound.
To the pleasure of nature lovers, Siling Tso is a vital sanctuary for Tibet's incredible wildlife. The area forms part of the Siling Tso National Nature Reserve. This protected area provides crucial habitat for numerous endangered species. It's one of the best places in Tibet to spot rare species: Tibetan antelopes, wild yaks, and even snow leopards if you're lucky. From April to September, tens of thousands of migratory birds arrive, including black-necked cranes—China's national first-class protected birds—and bar-headed geese, which fly over Mount Everest.
Conclusion
The fragile ecosystem around Siling Tso benefits from responsible tourism approaches that minimize human impact on the environment. Our local guides can not only ensure you don't get lost in this vast landscape but can also share fascinating insights about the region's ecology and culture.
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35 Comment ON "Siling Tso: the Largest Majestic Lake in Tibet"
Asked by Liliana Me** from Macau
plan a 7-8days trip for me and my boyfriend in April
Hi! I would like to plan a 7-8days trip for me and my boyfriend in April (3rd to 10th ideally) to Nepal, Tibet, and, if possible, Bhutan. Do you think it would be doable? Based on what I read, there are some places/things to do to consider: Nepal: Everest Base Camp trek and the Annapurna Circuit, ancient temples, sacred sites like Lumbini, Kathmandu, Tibet: The Potala Palace in Lhasa and the Jokhang Temple. eventually the holy Mount Kailash or the high-altitude plains. Bhutan: Thimphu, Paro, and the famous Tiger’s Nest Monastery. To take part in cultural traditions, yoga, meditation... Of course I am open to any recommendations you could make. For your reference, we are both based in Asia: him, in Bangkok and myself in Macau. Thank you so much for the information you could provide and, if possible, an estimated budget for your offer.
Asked by Ke** from Singapore
Cycling Tour to Mt Kailash
Hi , we are planning a Cycling Trip once Tibet opens for Tourism. The plan is we shall arrive to Kathmandu , travel to the border and enter via Kerung. Can you pls send a day to day Itinerary starting from Kerung - Lake Manasarovar - Darchen - Asthapath. We shall go around Kailash on foot and resume Cycling back to Kerung. We are a Group of 6-8 persons. Thanks Pls send ur reply to Kevin
Asked by Debo** from USA
Please can you tell me the prices and dates for the Tibet Luxury Tour.
Also, could you please provide a detailed itinerary - I want to see how many hours are spent on buses/vehicles. Thank you! Deborah
Asked by S** from HongKong
Tibet Tour from HK
May I know if holding Mainland Travel Permit for HK Residents. is it also need to get the visa permit to Tibet and what is the procedure if need to apply? Thank you
Asked by Na** from USA
Is Kailash Mansarovar Trip open for Indian Passport Holder?
Is it open for Indian Passport Holder?
Asked by A** from Singapore
Enquiry on private tour
We are planning a trip from Hong Kong to Tibet during the 12th to 21st of April. We want a private tour that covers all the scenic places as well as the EBC. Please advise an itinerary along with the cost breakdown. Thanks.
Asked by Na** from Canada
We would like to take the train from Xining to Lhasa
Asked by Gr** from Canada
The "Tibet Entry Permit" should be apply
Asked by Tam** from Singapore
Sightseeing Potala Palace
Asked by Ka** from Singapore
plan to travel to Mount Kailash