Basum lake, some times called "Lake Basumco", is named as Cuogao lake meaning green water in Tibetan language.  It is a stunning highland lake lying 90 kilometers (56 miles) west of Kongpo Gymdo County. Besides offering awesome views, many glaciers on the upper reaches of the lake provide it with a constant supply of fresh water.
The lake is surrounded by mountains and enjoys a temperate climate. At the feet of the snow-clapped mountains, the vegetation is luxuriant and the trees of black maples, birches, pines cypresses and azaleas connected each other to form a world of greenery. The pristine waters of the green lake reflect the picturesque snow-capped peaks surrounding the lake. The entire area around Basum Lake is so beautiful that thoughts of the inspiring Swiss Alps come to mind as one stands on the shoreline of this majestic lake. Fish are shoaling in the water, birds are circling in the air and beasts are roaming in the nearby forest. Animals are living a comfortable and easy life in Basum. In 1997, the lake was listed by World Tourism Organization as a world tourist site.
Basum is also a notable holy lake of Nyingmapa order of Tibetan Buddhism. Nyingmapa, the "school of the old persons", the so-called red caps, the oldest Tibetan buddistischen schools, find its beginnings of the Tibetan Buddhismus in 7th and 8th centuries on the shores of Basum Lake.
Another wonderful reason to visit Basum Lake is found on the northwest bank of the lake. Adventurous travelers find the gigantic stone, which has a hole allowing one person to pass.
At the center of the lake on an islet, there is a monastery, which was founded in the 17th century. Today, the monastery mainly houses Maitreya and Chenrezi. However, centuries ago, monks carved Buddhist figures and animals into the reef, bordering the small island making the small island a worthwhile stop to this beautiful highland treasure in Tibet known as Basum Lake. |
