Heavenly Water Body: Local villagers strive to protect Lake Manasarovar in Tibet Autonomous Region

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Mapam Yumtso, or Lake Manasarovar, is one of the highest freshwater lakes in the world, and is sacred to four religions. Located in Ngari Prefecture in southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region, the lake sees plenty of tourists and pilgrims because of its stunning views and religious importance. Natalie Pang travels there to take a look at how conservation efforts begin at home.

It's a dirty job, but someone has to do it. Most of the villagers in Shongpa used to be herders and farmers. But now they have one more job -- taking care of a very important lake.

NATALIE PANG NGARI PREFECTURE, TIBET AUTONOMOUS REGION "Lake Manasarovar, sitting at Purang County, is about 4,500 meters above sea level. It's home to hundreds of wildlife species, and it's up to the rangers to keep the balance here."

The sacred lake is also situated near the sacred Kangrinboqe mountain, also known as Mount Kailash. Thousands of pilgrims and tourists visit every year. And the human traffic is both a blessing and a curse. They bring that much-needed income for local villagers. But they also threaten the environment with the litter they leave behind. That's why clean-ups are in order.

PEMA WANGGYAL RANGER "We start to patrol at about 10.30am. We pick up the trash, and make sure the wildlife is not mistreated or hunted. It takes about 4 to 5 hours to finish patrolling our section. The biggest problem is when the trash floats out further into the lake, we have to wade far out and retrieve it."

It's not a glamorous or an easy job, but they'll do it because the lake is their pride and responsibility.

PEMA WANGGYAL RANGER "The country attaches great importance to what we do. I hope my patrols can raise awareness on conservation efforts with the villagers and tourists, as well as allow them to enjoy a greener environment."

Last July, the area was upgraded to a national-level preserve, and the government continues to finance employment and preservation efforts.

All this -- to ensure that future generations can enjoy this sacred treasure. NP, CGTN, TAR.