Kathmandu to Lhasa overland – Day 5
Yamdrok Lake
Kathmandu to Lhasa overland – Day 5. This was the final stretch from Gyantse to Lhasa, and the scenery was every bit as amazing as on the previous days’ journey. As we approached the picturesque Yamdrok Lake, we were treated to an impromptu musical performance from a band of travelling Tibetans. It also seemed a good opportunity for them to do a bit of busking.
The stop at Yamdrok Lake was very welcome and relaxing thanks to the smell and feel of the nearby water and the distant views to the mountains. After lazing around for a while, it wasn’t far until we reached the last of the three mountain passes above 5000 metres, Karola. Just below the pass were the signs of nomadic life – a tent, a corral, and a yak. Similar to an ox, the yak provides the staples of Tibetan life. That includes yak butter tea, yak meat, yak-dung fuel, and durable and warm rugs and clothing.
Entering Lhasa
From Yamdrok Lake it is down hill, relatively speaking, to Lhasa at 3650 metres. The culmination of this magnificent five-day journey is a first glimpse of one of the most awe inspiring and impressive buildings in the World, The Potala. At the end of a fairly long, and sometimes rough, road journey such a sight is very satisfying, especially when you know that you get to explore such magnificent place in a couple of days time.
