Gurudongmar Lake

At 5,183 meters, Gurudongmar Lake ranks among the highest lakes on earth and remains the highest visitable freshwater lake, since the nearby Tso Lhamo stays off limits to civilians. Named for Guru Padmasambhava, said to have visited on his journey to Tibet, the lake stays partly unfrozen even in extreme cold and holds deep spiritual meaning for Buddhist and Hindu pilgrims alike. Reaching it needs a Protected Area Permit and an early start from Lachen, since the checkpost closes by early afternoon.