Pagsum lake, which means “Green Water” in Tibetan, is about 18 kilometers long and covers an area of about 27 square kilometers. The deepest lake reaches 120 meters and the lake is 3,480 meters above sea level. It is a famous sacred lake and holy place of the Red religion.
Tibet is a dynamic land of vitality and natural beauty. Nyingchi, a city located in the lower reaches of Yarlung Tsangpo River, is a renowned scenic city, while Pagsum Lake in this region is even reputed as the ‘Jiuzhaigou’ of Tibet for its beautiful scenery.
Pagsum Lake lies in a deep valley at an altitude of 3,538 metes (11,607 feet). It is 15 kilometers (9 miles) long, and 2.5 kilometers (1.6 miles) wide on average. The deepest parts of the lake reach 166 meters (545 feet). It is a crescent covering 27 sq kilometers (10 squire miles), surrounded by mountain ranges and lush trees, like an emerald embedded in a valley.
In Tibetan language, Baksum means ‘green water’. The water is green because it is so pure and clean that the surrounding green trees are reflected in its surface. The water is so crystal-clear that fish can be seen even deep below the surface. Sand gulls and white cranes leisurely fly over the lake surface. Around Pagsum lake, there are both snow-capped mountains and mountains dotted with evergreen trees. In spring, vigorously blooming flowers are mirrored in the lake surface, forming a splendid picture. When autumn comes, flaming maples leaves light the whole mountain and reflect on the water, making it a sea of red color.
Pagsum Lake is also a religious resort. It is regarded as the holy lake of Lima sect by the local Tibetan people. On the island in the center, the temple built in the Tang Dynasty (618-907) is the most famous temple of Lima school. Every year thousands of believers flock here to worship. It’s interesting to take a ferry across Pagsum Lake to the island. As you linger on the island, the sound of monks chanting makes you feel far away from the world.
In addition, the original culture and unique customs also enhance the charm of the scenic spot. Tibetans living in Gongbu County retain their unique architecture, festivals, costumes and languages. The simple and hospitable villagers are ready to show their hospitality and smiling faces to the tourists.
The snow capped mountains, crystal clear rivers and dense vegetation add a lot of charm to this mysterious land. Immersed in such beautiful scenery, you will feel like living in a fairyland.
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