Puma Yumtso Lake: Tibet's Blue Ice Gem
If you're chasing authentic Tibet travel magic—beyond the well-trodden paths—why not consider visiting Puma Yumtso Lake. The higher the altitude, the more pristine the environment. It is its high altitude of 5,010 meters in Shannan Prefecture and its location straddling Lhozhag and Nagarze Counties that give Puma Yumtso Lake its wildly beautiful character. Just 210 kilometers south of Lhasa, a 4.5-hour scenic drive through winding mountain roads brings you to this highland treasure. Whether you choose it as an alternative to Yamdrok Lake during peak season, or add it as an extra destination to your Shannan tour, it will work perfectly, and it will prove it.
Winter Wonder: The World-Famous Blue Ice Spectacle
December to March is when Puma Yumtso transforms into a winter fairyland—its surface freezing solid into thick, translucent blue ice that's the stuff of postcards. Walking on this frozen lake feels like stepping onto a glassy blue planet, with snow-capped peaks towering in the distance. It's no wonder photographers and adventure seekers flock here—this is Tibet's most stunning blue ice experience, far quieter than more crowded spots. Just remember to wear sturdy, non-slip shoes and bundle up—winter temperatures hover around -10°C, but the beauty is worth the chill!
The Ancient Sheep-Driving Festival: Culture Meets Nature
The highlight in winter is the annual Sheep-Driving Festival, held from February to March. When winter grass runs scarce in nearby villages, locals lead their flocks across the frozen lake to a grassy island in the center, where fresh pasture thrives. Watching hundreds of sheep trundle across the blue ice, guided by herders in traditional robes, is a heartwarming sight that showcases harmony between humans and nature.
Perfect Day Trips: Linking Puma Yumtso to Its Nearby Worthwhile Attractions
One of Puma Yumtso's greatest perks is its proximity to other incredible Tibet attractions—you can easily string them together for an immersive Himalayan adventure. First up is Yamdrok Lake, one of Tibet's three sacred lakes, which you'll pass on the drive from Lhasa. Stop at Gangbala Pass (4,990m) for panoramic views of its coral-shaped waters, a must-see before reaching Puma Yumtso. Next, Kuragangri Snow Mountain, a 7,538m sacred peak southeast of the lake, offers jaw-dropping vistas—hike a short trail or simply admire its snow-capped summits from the lakeside. Then there's Tuiwa Village, the world's highest inhabited village (5,070m), where you can sip butter tea with locals, visit stone-built homes, and experience nomadic life firsthand.
Conclusion
As a year-round attraction, Puma Yumtso Lake welcomes visitors anytime. From May to October, the ice melts to reveal a completely different, yet equally stunning, vista.
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35 Comment ON "Puma Yumtso Lake: Tibet's Blue Ice Gem"
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