Lake Manasarovar, one of the world’s highest freshwater lakes, sits majestically at an elevation of 4,583 meters, covering an area of 412 square kilometers. With its northern part broader than the southern end, the lake reaches depths of over 70 meters. Its crystal-clear waters, purer than sapphire, allow visibility for dozens of meters into its depths. Located in Burang County, approximately 20 km southeast of Mount Kailash, Lake Manasarovar holds profound significance in Tibetan culture and spirituality.
In Tibetan, Manasarovar translates to “invincible lake”. According to monk Xuanzang’s account in “Regions In Great Tang”, Lake Manasarovar was considered the sacred Yaochi Lake of Nirvana. In the 11th century, Buddhism prevailed over the local Bon Religion, renaming the lake from “Machui Co” to “Manasarovar,” signifying the “Invincible Lake” and aiming to attract more believers in Tibet.
In Tibetan Buddhism, bathing in the waters of Manasarovar is believed to purify avaricious desires, troubled thoughts, and past sins, while drinking the water promotes health and disease prevention. Circumambulating the lake is considered a source of boundless blessings for pilgrims. The Hindi poet Kalidasa likened the waters of Lake Manasarovar to “pearls,” claiming that drinking them absolves sins accumulated over lifetimes.
Pilgrims flock to Manasarovar, viewing circling the lake and drinking its waters as the pinnacle of their spiritual journey. Throughout the year, pilgrims and visitors alike are drawn to the sacred Mount Kailash and Lake Manasarovar, one of the three Holy Lakes in Tibet, alongside Namtso Lake and Yamdrok Lake.
During summer, the lake is graced by flocks of swans, adding vibrancy to the area. Legend has it that the fish in the lake possess healing properties, curing ailments such as sterility, dystocia, and dropsy. Chemical analyses confirm the presence of various minerals in the lake water. A mere 3 kilometers from Manasarovar lies the “Ghost Lake” La’ang, a saltwater lake known for its harsh conditions, including high winds and rapid currents, making it inhospitable for fish and vegetation to thrive.
