Nam-tso (Heavenly Lake/Namucuo), is the highest salt water lake in the world, situated at an elevation of 4,718 meters (15,479 ft.) above sea level. The clear, sapphire blue waters, encircled by snow-capped mountains make the scenery even more breathtaking than the altitude. 

Covering a total area of 1,900 km², the Nam-tso Lake is one of Tibet's holy four, making it a necessary destination for pilgrims and tourists alike. Prayer flags and Sanskrit rock carvings abound, evidence of the lake's importance in Tibetan culture. 

Although inhospitable weather conditions prevail during the winter months, many pilgrims still make the journey to the lake. Sub-zero temperatures freeze the water and provide access to the lake's 5 islands, each situated more than 3 km (1.9 mi) from the nearest bank. In years gone by, devout pilgrims would brave the elements and cross the ice with supplies of food to one of the islands. Come springtime, the ice would melt, leaving them purposefully stranded until the next winter. They would then use this time for meditation and reflection. Such practices are now forbidden by the powers that be.

The lakeshore has several peninsulas which provide an excellent opportunity for exploration. In particular, the Zhaxi Peninsula features some unusual rock formations, pinnacles, grottoes and caverns. Some interesting cave paintings can be seen in various grottoes and if you're lucky you might bump into a Tibetan lama who has taken up temporary residence in one. There are also resident monks at Tashi Dor Monastery, located on one of the peninsulas.