Mansarovar Lake

Fast Fact:

Altitude: 4600 M

Area: 410 Square Kilometers

Sacred to: Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism and Bon Religion

Location：Nyari Prefecture, Tibetan Autonomous Region of China

Activities: Trekking and Circumambulation around the Holy Lake

Lake Manasarovar, also known as Mapam Yumtso in Tibetan, is a remarkable high-altitude freshwater lake situated near Mount Kailash in Burang County, Ngari Prefecture, within the Tibetan Autonomous Region of China.

It stands as one of the four most sacred lakes in Tibet, with the other three being Yamdrok Lake, Namtso Lake, and Lhamo Latso. Each of these lakes holds distinct significance in Tibetan Buddhism and the rich tapestry of Tibetan culture. A visit to this area offers an opportunity to immerse oneself in the unique spiritual and cultural diversity of the expansive and high-altitude plateau that remains relatively unexplored.

Typically, this extraordinary attraction is combined with a tour of Mount Kailash in Tibet, presenting a highly challenging and adventurous journey.

 

Religious Significances:

Hinduism

In Hindu beliefs, the magnificent Lake Manasarovar was brought into existence by the great god Brahma through his divine will. Its primary purpose was to provide a place for his sons to cleanse themselves after arduous journeys. This sacred lake epitomizes purity, and devout Hindus partake in a ritual of bathing in its waters, believing it to be a means of absolving themselves of all lifetime sins and accruing spiritual merits.

Buddhism

For Buddhists, Lake Manasarovar and Mount Kailash hold a central position in Buddhist cosmology. Mount Kailash is venerated as the mythical Mount Meru, regarded as the progenitor of the world, while Lake Manasarovar is seen as the symbol of the mother. According to ancient Buddhist mythology, Maya, the mother of the Buddha, bathed in Lake Manasarovar to purify herself prior to the birth of the Enlightened One. It is interesting to note that Tibetans, out of deep respect, refrain from bathing in the lake. Instead, they engage in the practice of circumambulating it, seeking blessings and spiritual elevation.

Bon Religion

The Bon religion was the predominant faith in Tibet before the widespread adoption of Buddhism in the 7th century. Even today, a significant number of Tibetans still adhere to its teachings. In Bon traditions, Lake Manasarovar is considered the heart and soul of the ancient Bon empire of Zhang Zhung. There is also a belief that Tonpa Sherab, the revered founder of the Bon religion, bathed in the lake during his initial sojourn in Tibet.

Jainism

In Jain religious lore, this holy lake is intricately associated with the first Tirthankara, the illustrious founder of Jainism who is said to have achieved Nirvana in the Himalayas. The connection endows the lake with a profound spiritual significance for Jain followers.

Given its multi-religious importance, Lake Manasarovar attracts countless believers from diverse faiths, all approaching it with unwavering faith and reverence. The optimal period for a pilgrimage or visit to this holy lake is from May to October. For comprehensive details regarding the attractions and customized tour itineraries, do not hesitate to reach out to us at [email protected]Our team of local expert tour consultants, with their extensive knowledge and rich experiences in Tibet tours, will be more than happy to assist and provide you with the most suitable guidance.