Namtso Lake can be done as a 2- or 3-day trip, depending on how much peace and nature you want. The crystal-blue waters surrounded by snowcapped mountains are stunning and a nice change from the (relatively) bustling pace of Lhasa, although the lake's popularity has recently led to something of a building spree. You can visit Namtso as a 1-day bus trip through most agents in town for ¥120 ($16/£7.80), or for ¥150 ($20/£9.75), you can give the lake its due and stay overnight. Better still, rent a Land Cruiser for a night or two (¥1,500-¥2,000/$195-$260/£98-£130). Jeeps can take up to four travelers. It's a 4-hour journey from Lhasa, and at an altitude of 4,700m (15,416 ft.), you should definitely acclimatize in Lhasa for a few days before attempting the journey here. Admission to the lake is ¥80 ($10/£5.20); save your ticket, it may be checked during your stay.
You can stay in mock nomad tents at the lake for around ¥30 ($3.90/£1.95) or at the Namucuo Kezhan (tel. 0891/651-1390), which offers basic dorm beds for ¥50 ($6.50/£3.25) each (credit cards not accepted). Rooms come in an array of sizes from standards to quads. By the time you get here there will probably be more options. The Namucuo Kezhan restaurant serves decent Sichuan fare, and basic meals are usually available at the tents.
