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Bhutan, the so-called mystical land of Thunder Dragon, is renowned for breathtaking landscapes, serene monasteries, and rich Buddhist culture. However, among various natural wonders are high-altitude lakes in Bhutan, which represent great spiritual and scenic significance. Bordered by majestic peaks, and untapped forest, the valley offers glimpses into the unspoiled beauty of Bhutan. These lakes in Bhutan are a treasure for adventurers, those in search of peace and spirituality, and people who just wish to relax in the bosom of nature.
10 Must-Visit Lakes In Bhutan
This blog will take you through ten of the most beautiful lakes in Bhutan. Discover Lakes in Bhutan, where nature’s beauty meets spiritual serenity.
1. Mebar Tsho
Photo: Prof Ranga Sai / Wikimedia Commons
Mebar Tsho, or the Burning Lake, is one of the very sacred sites in Bhutan with important cultural and historical relevance. Colourful prayer flags dot the landscape, while butter lamps are offered in worship. The Burning Lake is located about 30 minutes from Chamkhar Town in Bumthang Valley. According to the story, with a burning butter lamp in hand, Buddhist saint Terton Pema Lingpa leapt down into the lake and came out with the relics while the lamp stays lit; therefore, the lake was named Mebar Tsho, the Burning Lake. The lake, which is surrounded by trees and cliffs and bathed in mystery, attracts both spiritual seekers and lovers of nature. Lake Mebar-Tsho stands as a natural wonder, alongside a spiritual one, embodying the rich cultural and religious heritage of Bhutan.
Location: Tang Valley, Bumthang district, Bhutan
Best Time To Visit: March to May, September to November
Nearby Attractions: Jambay Lhakhang Temple, Ogyen Choling Museum, Kurje Lhakhang
2. Jimilang Tsho
Photo: Dan Nevill / Wikimedia Commons
Jimilang Tsho, famous as “Lake of the Giant Stones”, is a scenic alpine lake along the Druk Path Trek. The tranquil mountain shore of Jimilang Tsho provides an excellent camping opportunity for trekkers, surrounded by rolling hills and a peaceful environment. Other than the amazing views, Jimilang Tsho is blessed with other surprises in terms of lake life – it would offer undisturbed opportunities for any keen angler, as large golden trout are often found in the crystal waters of the lake – a surprisingly rare sight for high-altitude lakes. The peaceful surroundings and the spiritual importance of Jimilang Tsho provide a place for deep serenity, where it is believed that any prayers made there will come true, lending mystic charm to this beautiful destination.
Location: Thimphu District, Bhutan
Best Time To Visit: Spring and autumn
Nearby Attractions: Simkotra Tsho, Thimphu City, Phajoding Monastery
3. Gangkar Phuensum Lakes
Photo: Gradythebadger / Wikimedia Commons
These glacier lakes are located at the base of the highest unclimbed mountains in the world, Gangkar Phuensum, in the heartland of Bhutan. The lakes reflect the pristine beauty of Bhutan’s Himalayas. The challenges of reaching the lakes make it one of the most strenuous treks in the Kingdom, thereby suiting an experienced hiker. With tremendous high peaks, magnificent valleys, and a fantastic mystical atmosphere, this area is simply magnificent. The lakes are of great spiritual significance, which is the major reason why local monks visit them often for meditation purposes. An expedition to the Gangkar Phuensum Lakes will indeed be a lifetime’s experience.
Location: Wangchuck Centennial National Park (WCNP) in Bhutan
Best Time To Visit: Summer
Nearby Attractions: Jakar Dzong, Bumthang Valley, Tharpaling Monastery
4. Dungtsho Lake
Photo: Olve Utne / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Dungtsho Lake is a very spiritually important high-altitude lake near Dochula Pass. According to local legends, hidden treasures can be found in the lake, but they are only visible to those enlightened. The destination, however, is quite demanding, entailing a trek through thick forests and rocky trails, worthy for its breathtaking views and an atmosphere of inner peace. It is also a site of regular pilgrimage for monks of the Buddhist faith to meditate and seek blessings. Travellers looking for an offbeat adventure which holds profound cultural value should consider this lake a perfect choice.
Location: Bumdeling, Tashi Yangtse, Bhutan
Best Time To Visit: April to October
Nearby Attractions: Phajoding Monastery, Cheri Monastery, Dochula Pass
5. Buli Tsho
Photo: Kheng Singye Dorji (KSD) / Wikimedia Commons
Buli Tsho is a natural lake and a pilgrimage site that lies in the heart of a thick bamboo forest in Baer-pang of Bhutan. This lake is sacred, reputedly very mystical and vibrant in its spiritualism. The surface area of Buli Tsho is 2 hectares and is at an altitude of 1372 m from sea level. The guardian deities who have guarded it are still believed to be around, protecting the land of its people. Locals believe that when people disturb its waters, devastating calamities will occur; thus, it is thought of as divine. The placid setting of the lake, applied by strong forest, seems to be just the right destination for miracles and guidance. Its virgin beauty and great cultural values thus define Buli Tsho as an unknown treasure of Bhutanese heritage.
Location: Zhemgang District of Bhutan
Best Time To Visit: Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November)
Nearby Attractions: Buli Lhakhang temple, Tamzhing Monastery, Royal Manas National Park
6. Gulandi Lake
Photo: Zoepa / Wikimedia Commons
Gulandi Lake is an undisturbed, fairly lesser-known high-altitude lake, yet one that appreciates the purity of this unpolluted spot. It is one of the lowest-altitude lakes in Bhutan and is located right next to the Samtengang village, situated at an elevation of 1,201 ft (366 m). It is a paradise for nature lovers and trekkers and is also regarded as sacred by the locals, who claim it has spiritual importance protected by guardian deities. During spring and summer, the lake’s surroundings are vivaciously blossoming with wildflowers while in winter a desert of frozen scenic beauty. Gulandi Lake is a peaceful escape away from touristy places – perfect for those who want a tranquil vacation filled with adventure and closeness to nature.
Location: Samdrup Jongkhar District, Bhutan
Best Time To Visit: Spring and Autumn
Nearby Attractions: Jomolhari Base Camp, Lingshi Dzong, and Paro Taktsang Monastery
7. Kabji-Hoka Tsho
Photo: Bernard Gagnon / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Kabji-Hoka Tsho, which means “Lake with a hole”, is the sacred and one of the largest lakes in Bhutan. It is located in Kabje Gewog at an altitude of around 2,130 meters above sea level. Kabji-Hoka Tsho is beautiful and set in the serene landscape of Bhutan. Covered by lush green hills and peaceful forests, the lake is both a visual lure and an important water reservoir. The calm and glistening reflection of water makes a beautiful sight by the sunrise and sunset to nature lovers and photographers. The lake has both cultural and environmental importance. The area around the lake is suitable for hiking, camping, and glamping. It is a modern creation that fits seamlessly into the surrounding natural panorama. Walking along the lakeshore is a perfect way to capture the essence of Bhutan’s untouched natural space. It is a popular site for day hikes and pilgrimages. It is a true hidden gem worthy of worthwhile exploration.
Location: Kabje Gewog, Punakha Valley, Bhutan
Best Time To Visit: Spring and winter
Nearby Attractions: Punakha Dzong (the main fortress), Khamsum Yulley Namgyal
8. Drakay Pangtsho Lake
Photo: Doug Knuth / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Drakay Pangtsho is a holy lake and is among the most stunning lakes in Bhutan, located at a high altitude. It glares unbelievably with religious incredibility; the lakes do hold quite a fair share of local myths and legends in their bosom. The crystal waters of the lake reflect the peaks surrounding it, crafting a splendid view that excites any nature lover or trekker. The trek to Drakay Pangtsho passes through the alpine meadows and gives the trekker a fine view of many rare types of fauna and flora found in the Himalayas. The locals assert that the lake is guarded by protector deities; accordingly, the peacefulness of this lake makes it a perfect place for meditation and contemplation. For seekers of adventure and those who want to connect with the spiritual and natural heritage of Bhutan, the great beauty of Drakay Pangtsho is a really important place to visit.
Location: Paro District, Bhutan
Best Time To Visit: March to October
Nearby Attractions: Kyichu Lhakhang Temple, Jele Dzong, Drukgyel Dzong Fort
9. Ada Tsho
Photo: กิตติ เลขะกุล / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The Ada Tsho, with a surface area of 2.38 hectares, lies at an altitude of 1300 m above sea level. The broadleaved forest surrounds the lake on the eastern and western sides, while paddy fields border it on the northern side. Ada Tsho, or the Adha Pemai Thangka Tsho is believed to be the abode of a mermaid from a higher altitude lake below Pelela in Wangdue Phodrang. The lake is one of the prominent watering holes in the area for wild animals and migratory birds. The lake also serves as an important habitat for the critically endangered White-bellied Heron as well as the Mountain hawk-eagle. Two species of fish, Copper Mahseer and Common Carp, are found in the lake. Pilgrims and lovers of nature visit Ada Tsho either to seek blessings, meditate, or simply enjoy the soothing ambience.
Location: Athang Gewog of Wangdue Phodrang District in Bhutan
Best Time To Visit: Spring and autumn
Nearby Attractions: Adha Village, Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park, Pele La Pass
10. Om Tsho
Photo: Zoepa / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Om Tsho is one of the sacred lakes in Bhutan and is also known as Omtoe Tsho and Omta Tsho. It is at an elevation of 4,665 meters (15,305 ft). It is believed to be the site where Pema Lingpa found the terton, or hidden treasures, of Guru Rimpoche. This lake is located in the Lunana region, a rewarding but complicated trekking area. The views from the surrounding cliffs and snow-capped peaks are stunningly beautiful. Because of the remoteness of this lake, only a handful of hikers get to Om Tsho, which makes it a quiet and unspoiled paradise. Commonly associated with Buddhist legends, Om Tsho is regarded as a meditation centre for monks. It represents a truly mystical destination in Bhutan for an adventurer and a peruser of spiritual matters.
Location: Snowman Trek, Gasa District, Bhutan
Best Time To Visit: April to October
Nearby Attractions: Lunana Region, Jichu Dramo Glacier, Thanza Village
The lakes in Bhutan are not just breathtaking sights; they come from the background of spirituality, culture, and more. Whether you are a trekker or just a traveller seeking solace in nature, these lakes in Bhutan provide one of the most thrilling experiences. Each lake tells its story that connects you to the pristine landscapes of Bhutan. Exploring these lakes is about more than just a walk in nature; it is about immersing oneself deep into Bhutan’s cultural traditions. Plan your visit with TripXL to see these wonderful marvels.
Cover Photo: Gerd Eichmann / Wikimedia Commons
