Zhuoma Langcuo: The Tara Secret Realm of the Sacred Lake in Eastern Tibet
Nestled at the foot of Qingdola Mountain in Luolong County, Changdu, on the northeastern slope of the Nyainqêntanglha Mountains, lies a hidden paradise known as "Lake of Tara"—Zhuoma Langtso. Located 36 kilometers from Luolong County at an altitude of 4,300 meters, it is composed of 21 interconnected lakes of varying sizes, subtly representing the Twenty-One Taras. It is both a nurturing "Mother Lake" and one of the most sacred pilgrimage sites in eastern Tibet.
The natural wonders of this sacred lake are truly a masterpiece of nature. Stretching 5 kilometers in length and reaching a maximum width of 1.5 kilometers, from an aerial perspective, it resembles a seated goddess, left leg crossed, right leg extended, resting serenely among the mountains. The crystal-clear, azure water reflects the blue sky and green trees, displaying varying shades of blue-green hues, like turquoise scattered across the earth. Surrounded by forests and grasslands, the lake is breathtaking in every season: rhododendrons bloom in spring, lush green grasses carpet the ground in summer, vibrant autumn foliage paints the landscape in vibrant colors, and the lake freezes over in winter, transforming the area into a pristine white wonderland. The lake, seemingly never overflowing, silently nourishes the surrounding natural pastures and wildlife, showcasing the ethereal beauty and gentle warmth of a high-altitude lake.
Religious culture is the soul of Drolma Langtso. Legend has it that the sacred lake is a manifestation of the tears of Avalokiteshvara Bodhisattva, born from a lotus flower, and that the Twenty-One Taras protect all beings here, bringing hope to the suffering and healing to the sick. For believers, the lake water not only cleanses the body and mind but also refreshes the spirit when drunk. Every year, large numbers of pilgrims brave hardships to make pilgrimages, circumambulating the lake with prostrations every three steps. During their devout prayers, it is said that images of Buddha or other beacons of hope will appear in the lake, adding to its mystique. Prayer flags flutter along the shore, and mani stones are scattered throughout, carrying the people's reverence and prayers for Tara.
The journey to the sacred lake is full of natural charm. Starting from the county town, it's a 16-kilometer paved road followed by a 15-kilometer gravel road. Here, there's no trace of excessive commercialization, only pure nature and unwavering faith. A simple observation station stands on the lakeshore, where one can occasionally glimpse waterbirds circling overhead. In the distance, majestic snow-capped mountains rise, while nearby, cattle and sheep graze peacefully, creating a picture of harmonious coexistence between humanity and nature.
Drolma Langtso Lake uses its waters as a mirror, reflecting heaven and earth and faith; it uses legends as its thread, connecting the past and present with all living beings. It is not only a natural treasure of the eastern Tibetan Plateau but also a spiritual home embodying compassion and hope, allowing every visitor to feel the power of faith in tranquility and understand the profound and pure Tibetan culture.