Lhasa Travel Guide  

Lhasa is the political capital of the Tibetan land. Moreover, the city is often referred to as "The Spiritual Heart of Tibet." It is a megacity with valuable cultural and religious resources. Lhasa has long been the center of Tibetan Buddhism. 

The city is one of a multitude of temples and monasteries and is visited every day by thousands of pilgrims. Traditionally, Lhasa has been the capital of the Tibetan emperors. Likewise, it's the heart of the Dalai Lamas. 

Tibet has worked to develop its culture, religion, and politics. The main architectural feature of the Potala Palace. It is also a tourist attraction, with thousands of visitors. The palace is in Lhasa's central district. It was once on the other side of Taiji. In the past, the Winter Palace of the Dalai Lama was a sign of Lhasa's fame in Tibetan (Tibetology) learning.   

Lhasa is not an ordinary city but a city where religion, custom, and history blend. People travel to the site from all corners of the globe to escape the serene, sacred ambience.   

Best Time to Visit Lhasa   

The Lhasa climate is special for its altitude. The weather can vary greatly depending on the season. Yet we can consider Spring and Autumn as the best time to visit Lhasa.  

We still presented the details of each season. It can align with people with different seasonal interests. 

 Winter (December to February):   

Winter in Lhasa is cold but dry. Cold will increase at night, i.e., as low temperatures are decreased to the freezing point. However, the days are warm, and it gets up to 10°C (50°F).  

These days, a unique opportunity arises for a calm individual. It's perfect for those who wish to visit a relatively peaceful Lhasa. There are fewer people during this particular time of the year. However, the cold may be challenging for some.   

Spring (March to May):  

Spring is the best season to be in Lhasa. The weather will be warmer in the mornings. The temperature will go from 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F).   

Clear sky-blue and spectacular nature views of the nearby mountains will be in front of you. This time, flowers are only unfurling, staining the street scenes with shades of color.   

Summer (June to August): 

Summer is the highest temperature season in Lhasa. And ambient air temperature during daytime can be as high as 25°C (77°F). Nights are still cold, an ideal time to take a brisk walk in the fresh air.   

Summer is the busiest season. More tourists will be in town. And you'll be able to enjoy the festivals of Lhasa, like the renowned Shoton Festival.   

Autumn (September to November):   

Autumn is another good time to visit. It offers a mild temperature, with daytime temperatures ranging from 15 °C (59 °F) to 20 °C (68 °F).   

The sky is blue and the streets are deserted. During the autumn, there is a magnificent view. The silhouettes of the mountain ranges are clearly visible.   

As such, the best time of year to go to Lhasa is April to October, with a preference for May to September. The days are mild enough not to be considered hot. Similarly, nights are quiet and low in terms of congestion compared with the peak summer.   

How to Reach Lhasa   

There are various ways to reach Lhasa. We have listed some of the best ways to reach Lhasa: 

By Air (Lhasa Gonggar Airport):   

The location of the Tibet airport is internationally special. Lhasa Gonggar Airport is the only international airport of the Tibet Autonomous Region.   

It is situated at an approximate distance of about 60 km/ 37 mi south of Lhasa in Gonggar County. The daily flights take off from some of the largest cities in China. The flights are from Beijing, Chengdu, Xi'an, and Shanghai.   

The Lhasa Gonggar Airport is modern. Likewise, it is well-equipped and facilitated. As such, domestic and a few international air flights can be accommodated. At the airport terminal, passengers can book a taxi or a shuttle to the city, which takes 1 or 1.5 hours.  

Lhasa is at a high Altitude of 3,650 m or 11,975 ft. It is suggested to acclimatize before arriving in the city. Spending some time at a lower altitude to adapt is highly recommended.   

For the majority of passengers, in fact, travel to Lhasa by air is the shortest. Travel by bus/train is still an option under consideration. Despite being a more expensive option, travelling by air is the best way for those with a tight schedule.   

By Train (Tibet Railway):   

The Tibet Railway line is a distinctive scenic line in Lhasa. It is a road corridor, on one side, including Lhasa. And on the other side, many cities in China. Such as Beijing, Chengdu, Xining, and also multiple places in Shanghai.   

The easiest way to travel to Lhasa is from Xining. The town is directly connected to the railway line leading to Lhasa. Xining is at the beautiful site of the Qinghai-Tibet Railway. Yes, one of the oldest railways in the world.   

Moving by rail is an exciting travel experience. It provides scenic views of the Tibetan Plateau/Qinghai–Tibet Plateau. Travel is 22 hours long from Xining to Lhasa. A 48-hour long-distance from Beijing.

Train service to Lhasa is operated regularly. Its onboard equipment has been arranged, such as sleeping rooms and a dining area. And for passengers adapting to the altitude, they set up an oxygen supply.   

The Tibet Railway is a sightseeing route. The journey satisfies the traveler's desire with the views out the window. As a bonus, Lhasa is a less crowded way to travel.   

By Road (Access via Various Routes):   

Road access is available in Lhasa. But the road ascent is very tough and long. The local road is hilly and rocky. All of these are multi-route. Among the most traveled are the Sichuan-Tibet Highway and the Qinghai-Tibet Highway.   

Sichuan-Tibet Highway:   

On this part of the journey, the city of Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan province, is connected to Lhasa. The Sichuan-Tibet Highway is approximately 2,000 km, or 1240 miles, long. It usually takes 6-7 days by car/bus to complete the journey.   

Along the way, you’ll pass through beautiful landscapes. Yes, including forests, rivers, and Tibetan villages. However, this method, unfortunately, is known to be extremely difficult. And this route is only recommended to experts or seasoned travellers.  

Altitude increases slowly. As such, it is important to make stops and acclimatize to prevent altitude sickness.   

Qinghai-Tibet Highway:   

An alternative and shorter way to Lhasa is the Qinghai-Tibet Road. It begins at Xining, the capital city of Qinghai province. The tour is approximately 1900 km, or 1180 miles, long, and the bus or car travel normally requires 3-4 days.   

Similarly, the Sichuan Tibet Highway provides a stunning vista of the Tibetan Plateau. However, it is a strenuous trail. Roads are, in the general sense, less travelled than the Sichuan–Tibet Highway. The path is through spacious plains and snow-covered mountains.  

Travelling by car is an adventure. But driving these routes requires heavy planning. The roads are not easy to travel on in winter.   

It is also of great significance to have enough materials on site. Food, water, medical supplies, and primary care services are almost nil in the remote areas. Either a private driver or a scheduled tour is very desirable for the mobility of most travelers. They can easily make the journey through tours and hired transport.  

Top Attractions in Lhasa   

1. Potala Palace:   

The Potala Palace is perhaps one of the most famous palaces in Tibet. Hence, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was the winter residence of the Dalai Lama and the centre of Tibetan Buddhism.   

The palace is an ideal structure. It is designed with splendid views from atop Lhasa's terrace. There are tens of thousands of statues and manuscripts, as well as Buddhist bronzes.  

To be in the Potala Palace is to have an immediate experience. It offers an understanding of the Tibetan worldview and Tibetan culture.   

2. Jokhang Temple:   

Jokhang Temple is the holiest temple in Tibet. It is one of the Lari sites and one that must be seen. Done in the 7th century, it is an important place of worship in Tibetan Buddhism.  

The temple building construction is a combination of Indian, Chinese, and Netherlandish styles. There, the statue of Jowo Sakyamuni Buddha is respected.  

The road to the temple, Barkhor Street, is a splendid pilgrimage. Pilgrims travel a full circle and, on entering it, begin to circle in a clockwise direction. It is with revolution around the prayer wheels.   

3. Barkhor Street:   

You will be amazed by the crowd sweeping around the Jokhang Temple precinct. This place is a blaze of shops, contrasting with a pilgrimage route. You will be captivated by the stalls found there. Each holds Tibetan bracelets, artwork, prayer flags, and more.   

The flavor of the chanting of street pilgrims. The smell of the incense in the air creates a nice cultural spectacle.   

4. Sera Monastery:   

Sera Monastery is known for its debating monks. It is one of the great monastic centers of Tibet.  

It has remained so for 500 years. It is famous for its active Buddhist scholarship. It is conducted every day in its courtyard.   

Patrons will observe monks talking and cheer them with applause. The monastery also features beautiful murals and statues.   

5. Norbulingka:   

The Dalai Lama's summer palace, Norbulingka, is a quiet and peaceful garden site in Lhasa. The site is a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage. The landscape contains a Tibetan-style garden, hall, and pavilion.   

6. Drepung Monastery:   

Drepung Monastery is among the most significant and largest Tibetan monasteries. It was the site of hundreds of monks and a major intellectual centre.   

The monastery is quite famous for its whitewashed buildings. And it is located on top of Lhasa. Visitors can explore its many halls, chapels, and courtyards.   

7. Tibet Museum:   

The Tibet Museum is constructed with Tibetan history. It's best known for containing Tibetan culture. It showcases the Tibetan outfit, objects of religious rituals, old manuscripts, and artworks.   

In the museum, the public gets the chance to learn about Tibetan cultural history. They also gain an insight into Buddhism in Tibet.   

8. Ramoche Temple:   

Ramoche Temple is the sister temple of Jokhang Temple. It is one of the most important sacred sites in Lhasa.  

Dating back to the 7th century, this includes a religious statue of the baby Buddha known as a prince. The temple has been renovated on each occasion, and it continues to be a centre for pilgrimage.   

9. Namtso Lake (Day Trip):   

While not situated in the Lhasa region, Namtso Lake is a major tourist attraction near Lhasa. It is one of the most scenic high-altitude lakes in Tibet. It is because of its blue water and of white-clad mountains.  

10. Drak Yerpa Caves:   

Drak Yerpa is a few kilometres from Lhasa. It is a sacred meditation ground. It's comprised of caves used by monks and others to meditate.

The site has an amazing panorama of adjacent valleys. Yerpa Caves are among the best retreats in Tibet.   

Importance of Buddhism in Lhasa  

Lhasa is known as "Land of the Gods" and is the heart of Tibetan Buddhism. By and large, in the city, there are plenty of monasteries and temples. And places of worship that tell the story of this deep Buddhist heritage.   

Buddhism is not just a religion in Lhasa but also a life philosophy. Monks, pilgrims, and the inhabitants of the land are seen on their daily rounds. They are seen praying and meditating.  

Revolving around the largest Buddhist structures, the Potala Palace and Jokhang Temple. Tens of thousands of people visit every year.   

You will find prayer flags flapping in the wind, prayer wheels, and chanting monks. It all creates a peaceful, meditative space. They wash overhead on every street of the local area.  

Lhasa epitomizes the concept of compassion, peace, and wisdom at a fundamental level. It is all within the Buddhist tradition and, as such, is of great importance. 

Lhasa Local Festivals and Events  

Lhasa is a city with vibrant and celebratory celebrations. They pay homage to Tibetan culture and Tibetan Buddhism.  

Losar, the Tibetan New Year, is the religious capital festival of Tibetan communities. It is celebrated with festive rituals. Find a large family gathering and a lively dance during the festival.   

Another of the main festivals is a pilgrimage element. Buddhist pilgrims walk and circumambulate the kora around sacred places. To the honour of pilgrimage is Saga Dawa Day, marking the birth, enlightenment, and death of the Buddha.   

In particular, the Shoton Festival (Yogurt Festival) is known for its visual spectacle. It has large thangka paintings at Drepung Monastery. It also offers Tibetan operetta at Norbulingka. The Butter Lamp Festival is a celebration after the Tibetan New Year.  

Things to Do in Lhasa  

Explore Tibetan Markets and Shops 

The markets of Lhasa, particularly the Barkhor Street trade, are exceedingly diverse. The Tibetan market offers craftwares, ritual cloth, incense, and jewellery.   

Entering these chaotic markets allows you to experience the quotidian. You can also get genuine local gifts. Goods such as prayer wheels, yak wool scarves, and Tibetan thangka paintings will be for sale.   

Remember also to continue practicing those bargaining tactics. Bargaining can help you acquire your winning set. 

Visit Tibetan Monasteries and Temples  

Lhasa is a hub of some of the most sacred sites in Tibetan Buddhism. Start with Jokhang Temple. It is the most sacred temple in Lhasa. It includes people lying down, a prayer wheel spinning, and so on.   

Look at Sera Monastery. Here, sensational mystery cases are being prepared by the notorious, controversial monk. Drepung Monastery was originally an old large monastery with historical and architectural value.   

All monastical structures are places of serenity for development. It is also a presentation of Buddhist practice and teaching.   

Participate in Traditional Tibetan Tea Ceremonies 

Within Lhasa, a special Tibetan tea ceremony is a cultural activity. Go to a local teahouse for a hot cup of butter tea. It is a combination of tea leaves, yak butter, and salt. It is an integral part of the life of Tibetans.   

Tea time offers you a time to rest and communicate. It offers a chance to enjoy Tibetan hospitality and the Tibetan way of life. You consume the usual sweet milk tea as you just enjoy the local social activity. And take in the sight of the Huangshan too.   

Tips for Travelers' Health and Acclimatization Tips 

Accommodation in Lhasa is at a high altitude. Most are higher than 3600 m. Therefore, acclimatization is required.  

To adapt to the new height, drink an adequate amount of water, reduce alcohol, and eat light meals. Signs and symptoms of altitude sickness are headaches, vertigo, and dizziness. If any of these are noted, should they seek immediate medical care?   

It is recommended that altitude sickness drugs be kept, like Diamox. However, consult a doctor before travelling. Passive movements and extended bed rest help having an easier time.  

Local Customs and Etiquette 

Tibetan culture is deeply spiritual. And respect has to be built into local practices.

Do not touch or walk on sacred objects. And do not photograph monks or religious activities without consent. Dressing modestly, by keeping your shoulders and knees covered at religious sites.   

Travel Permits for Tibet  

Travelling to Lhasa and other Tibetan areas requires special permits. All tourists from abroad visiting Tibet must carry a Tibet Travel Permit. It is only obtainable through a regular travel operator, i.e., a licensed tour operator.   

The remaining permits can involve permits to areas outside of Lhasa city. Permits like Alien Travel or Military Permit applications are required at times.

Preparation is necessary to get the permit in advance. Travelling alone without a local guide is not permitted.   

Make sure your papers are organized and tidy. So you'll be free from stress during the holidays. 

Where to Stay in Lhasa? 

Lhasa offers various accommodations for all travellers and their budgets. You can get from budget to luxury. For the person who likes to be pampered, there are luxury versions. They are equipped with the most modern facilities. Moreover, it is also incorporated in a traditional Tibetan style.   

Medium-sized hotels are a reasonable compromise for travellers. It's for those who experience a positive trip without sacrifices in comfort.  

Such options typically comprise nice rooms, helpful staff, and good placements. They are in the vicinity of the central points of interest, e.g., Potala Palace or Jokhang Temple.   

They provide a balance point between quality and price. So, they are extremely popular amongst a massive tourist population. Budget travelers will find plenty of economical options in Lhasa. 

They might be ordinary spots, but with a cozy environment. It is also the good location of these places that makes the city attractive. It offers travellers an affordable place to experience the city.   

The most desirable ones are those in the city area or ones that are clearly visible. Like, Barkhor Street. Living in or moving to these areas is convenient. It offers uninterrupted access to stores and local eateries is of great benefit. As it eases travel as much as possible, and is fun.   

Must-Try Tibetan Dishes 

Lhasa provides a unique and deeply traditional food. They are inspired by the Tibetan people and their nomadic past.   

Tsampa is an oriental food. The food is made with roasted barley flour. The dough is then mixed with yak butter tea. It is not only nutritionally efficacious but also pleasurable to eat.   

Another local food beverage made from tea leaves with yak butter and salt. Po cha, yak butter tea, is a local beverage. It is worthy of experience and is of great significance to Tibetan society. 

Variations of Momo, steamed or fried. It contains cooked and minced meat or vegetables. It is a food provided to guests and to the local population.   

A warming and comforting food for areas under a cold mountainous climate, Thukpa. It is a noodle soup with meat and vegetables. Sesame toast, as a street food or a breakfast, is of great interest. 

Please do not forget the taste of Shaptra. It is an extremely spicy, hot meat dish. The meat is cooked in chillies and vegetables. It is a popular savory flavour, only found in Indian-only cuisine.   

Popular Food Spots and Restaurants 

In Lhasa, you can find a mix of traditional and street food. It is found in a sophisticated, modern, trendy cafe-type store. They can be found in native and foreign restaurants.  

You can find a variety of small, privately owned tea shops. It offers an experience centred around yak butter tea and piping hot. It also found freshly baked, traditional flatbreads. 

The city also has lovely cafes where tourists can grab a snack of the weaker type of butter tea–Tibetan sugar tea.  

For those with more sophisticated taste buds, there are Tibetan-Chinese restaurants. They provide food with a Tibetan flavour subsumed by Chinese cooking finesse.  

There are many street vendors with a culinary variety. It ranges from snacks to fast food, being readily accessible all day long for shopping. It's perfect for a leisurely promenade in the neighborhood.   

No matter where you choose to sit in a typical restaurant or a contemporary cafe. The taste of Lhasa cuisine offers a truly unique experience of the culture and cuisine.   

Souvenirs and Tibetan Handicrafts in Lhasa  

Lhasa is a sea of exotic and antiquarian objects even for the high Tibetan culture. Prayer wheels are small, cylindrical objects with mantras engraved on the surface. They are also used for Buddhist rituals, which are among the hit items.   

Tibetan thangka paintings on silk/cotton are bought for religious and aesthetic reasons. Prayer flags, festooned with all colours and spiritual pictures on them. Just one of those pervasive objects symbolizing goodwill and peace.   

Jewellery from Tibet is made with turquoise and coral decorated items in silver. They make a fine souvenir. There are also historical remains, including yak wool blankets and shawls. You can also find incense, Buddhist statues, and talismans.   

You can find Tibetan cuisine, like Tsampa and yak butter tea, as food souvenirs. They are for those who are looking for the original Tibetan flavour.   

Where to Buy Authentic Tibetan Products? 

Barkhor Street is the most famous shopping street in Lhasa, with shops. You can also find makeshift stalls along Barkhor Street. You can find stalls selling a variety of religious objects and local merchandise.   

It is a busy marketplace where bargaining is normal. You will experience authentic Tibetan culture. Find numerous little shops located in the area around the Jokhang Temple. They sell a limited selection of local handicrafts, namely textiles and jewellery.  

The proper way of owning good thangka paintings is to go to shops or a crafts workshop. You can see the painters labor on site. 

Local cooperatives and government stores are good options for authentic Tibetan products. And you can always find them at reasonable prices. It will guarantee sales of the products from the local economy and craftsmen.   

Day Trips and Excursions from Lhasa   

Lhasa rarely receives the spotlight alongside impressive places and historical attractions. And yet, married to one another, some of the most scenic day trips and treks. 

Ganden Monastery (1-hour drive)  

Ganden Monastery, in the direction of the east, around 50 km from Lhasa. It is known to be one of the holiest of the Tibetan Buddhist monasteries. It is located at the top of the ridge, and it has a great view. The angle at which one views the valleys downward from an overhead perspective.  

It is famous for its construction in Tibet. It has a long and flourishing history. And another commonality is that it carries a sacred kora, a pilgrimage path. Visitors follow the path for religious solitude and piety.  

Yamdrok Lake (2-hour drive) 

Yamdrok Lake, a lake regarded as one of the prettiest. It is the most religiously auspicious lake in Tibet. It is a common excursion destination from Lhasa.  

There will be guests who will be able to stroll down the peaceful serenity of the lake. You get the chance for great photography. It, in turn, gets in touch again with the peaceful mood. It has brought together both religious and sightseeing generations.   

Drak Yerpa Hermitage (1-hour drive) 

Drak Yerpa is an example of a cluster of prehistoric meditation caverns. It is an excavation into rock-face environments on the edge of Lhasa. It is a holy site for Tibetans, where great numbers of Buddhist and yogi meditators dwell.   

You will see the peace and beauty of the countryside. The sacred significance makes it the perfect place for a mystically soft experience. 

Namtso Lake (4-5 hours drive) 

Although remote from Lhasa, Namtso Lake is one of the best day trips for naturalists. This high-altitude saltwater lake is famous for its transparent water. It has imposing mountain views and religious importance.   

The journey is one of roads with high-elevation passages, and the scenery is enjoyable.   

Transportation Within Lhasa   

Traditionally, it is very easy to take a trip to Lhasa. A lot of different transport modes can be used to shuttle to the city centre and sightseeing sites.   

Taxis:   

Taxis are the most portable means of transportation in Lhasa. Another fact is that they are very cheap too. Their price tag is the same and is then inflated according to the journey distance.  

Most drivers of taxis do not have a meter, so it is the fare should be agreed upon before the trip begins. Taxis are readily available both in and out of tourist places and hotels.   

Public Buses:   

The public bus system in Lhasa is being used to provide a link between different parts of the city. They are affordable and used frequently by locals.  

The routes and timetables are in Chinese and Tibetan characters. The pilgrims may not otherwise remember unless they are guided.   

Electric Tricycles and Rickshaws:   

There are environmentally friendly vehicles that attract much attention during short trips. It's perfect for individuals inside the city. Best for between the old town and the Barkhor Street. 

They offer a relatively slow, scenic trip along the roads. It can be a great way to experience the countryside. Like taxis, fares should be agreed upon in advance.   

Walking:   

Lhasa's attractions are the Potala Palace, the Jokhang Temple, and Barkhor Street. They are in a relatively small geographical area.  

Walking is a very good way for tourists to experience the city. By walking, you can soak up the city's culture and urban street scene.   

Rental Bicycles:  

Bicycle rentals are provided to those choosing the active way. Due to the attractiveness of Lhasa, cycling a little off the beaten track is a good way to have a pleasant time. However, the high altitude requires caution and slower-paced rides.   

Travel Safety and Health in Lhasa   

Visiting Lhasa provides an unbeatable travel experience for the traveller. They face challenges like altitude and peculiarities of the city, and the condition. Itself is calling for foresight on the part of the traveller to ensure a safe and healthy journey.   

Altitude Sickness and Acclimatization 

With a high altitude, the people will achieve a certain step of acclimatization well. All in advance of reaching the top altitude of 3,650 m/11,975 feet. Acclimatization will take time to reach its plateau level.   

Dizziness, nausea, and shortness of breath are well-known symptoms of altitude sickness. It is necessary to drink enough fluid and water. And it is absolutely forbidden to drink alcohol and eat very low-calorie food.  

Remedies, like acetazolamide, are taken for acclimatization. But it is recommended to use pharmaceuticals only after visiting the doctor.   

Weather and Clothing 

Lhasa’s weather varies greatly between day and night. Even in summer, temperatures can drop significantly after sunset. Put on multiple layers so that the temperature change won't affect you as much. However, it isn't always such an extreme temperature swing. Having a warm coat is always recommended.  

UV exposure is greatest at high altitudes. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats protective effects are necessary for the skin and eyes.   

Food and Water Safety 

Drink bottled or boiled water because drinking water is unsafe. Tibetan food is palatable enough. But for those travellers, and for a sensitive traveller.

Street food should be eaten with extreme caution. Opt for freshly prepared meals in clean, reputable restaurants.   

Health Facilities and Emergency Care 

Lhasa has hospital and clinic facilities. But higher elevations may lack the appropriate equipment and accessories. The care of cases of high-altitude-related disease and emergency becomes complicated.   

Conclusion 

So, you have learnt a lot about Lhasa and how to travel in Lhasa till now. Choosing the best time will definitely depend on you. We have given you a Lhasa Travel guide for the best time, too.  

Best wishes for your Lhasa Travel. Travel safe, travel healthy. 

FAQS 

What currency does Lhasa accept? 

Lhasa uses Chinese Yuan RMB. You must exchange the money in order to pay for your expenses while travelling. 

Is there any risk of altitude sickness in Lhasa? 

Yes, there is a higher risk of altitude sickness since the city itself lies above 3500 meters. You must be prepared for such an altitude. 

Can you visit Lhasa without a guide? 

No, you cannot visit Lhasa without a guide. You must get a license and permits through a licensed tour operator. 

Does a Nepali need a visa to enter Lhasa? 

Yes, nowadays, Nepalese need a visa to enter Lhasa. It is due to the strict rules and regulations handled by the government.