Lake Manasarova (4650m)

,After leaving Mt Kailash it was a short drive to Laka Manasarova. Again this is a holy lake to most Eastern religions and each has a slightly different interpretation of its religious significance. Huge numbers of pilgrims visit in the season to circumnavigate the lake, many prostrating every 3 steps, or to bathe in it, and/or to drink its waters. Fortunately we were again very early in the season and the place was nearly deserted.

The little blue dots at the far left are our tents.

There was plenty to see around the lake. Lots of bird life, including geese...

...grebes..

...stilts...

..black headed gulls...

..and eagles.

Some lovely lakeside scenery...

...with small fish in the ponds...

..and several small lizards.

It was quite icey  to say the least.

A number of pilgrims were circumnavigating..

There was hillside map of Tibet, somewhat reminiscent of the Wiltshire horses.

And lots of very basic pilgrim accommodation

We had a chilly al fresco lunch...

..provided by the ever busy Khem and his team

After lunch we visited the nearby Chia monastery

Which also provided excellent views of the surrounds

The next morning we were treated to a lovely sunrise..

...and found large ice needles in the ponds.