Lhasa China

Ultimate Guide to Traveling in Lhasa, China

Overview

Lhasa (拉萨), the capital city of Tibet Autonomous Region, is a vibrant and mystical destination that offers an unparalleled cultural experience. Nestled on the high-altitude Tibetan Plateau, it boasts stunning landscapes, ancient monasteries, and a rich heritage. This guide will help you plan your trip to Lhasa, providing valuable insights into places to visit, activities to engage in, food to savor, accommodation options, transportation, and other essential tips for an unforgettable journey.

Places to Visit

  1. Potala Palace (布达拉宫) - A symbol of Tibet and its rich history, this awe-inspiring palace was the residence of the Dalai Lama until 1959. Climb up to the roof for breathtaking views over Lhasa.
  2. Jokhang Temple (玉兰寺) - One of the oldest and most sacred temples in Tibet, it is believed that every devout Tibetan pilgrim should visit Jokhang Temple at least once in their lifetime.
  3. Barkhor Street (八廓街) - A lively market area surrounding Jokhang Temple, where you can find traditional Tibetan artifacts, local delicacies, and engage with friendly locals.
  4. Drepung Monastery (大鼎寺) - One of the largest monasteries in the world, offering a glimpse into the monastic lifestyle and Buddhist teachings.
  5. Sera Monastery (萨荔拉寺) - Known for its famous ‘Buddhism Debate’ held among monks daily at around 3 pm.
  6. Norbulingka Palace (湲布林卡宫殿) - The summer palace of the Dalai Lama, showcasing beautiful Tibetan architecture and lush gardens.
  7. Purpur Monastery (普普尔寺) - A relatively less-visited monastery that offers a more authentic and peaceful experience.
  8. Yamdrok Lake (玉卓驭湖) - A stunning turquoise lake located just a couple of hours’ drive from Lhasa, offering scenic views and photo opportunities.
  9. Palcho Monastery (巴尔曲寺) - Located in the town of Tsedang, approximately 200km away from Lhasa, this monastery houses an impressive collection of Buddhist scriptures.

Activities

  1. Visit Tibetan Family Homes - Gain insights into local life and customs by visiting a traditional Tibetan family in their home.
  2. Join a Guided Tour - Hire a knowledgeable guide to help navigate the cultural nuances and historical significance of Lhasa’s sites.
  3. Attend a Prayer Ceremony - Witness the spiritual devotion of local Tibetans during prayer ceremonies held in monasteries and temples.
  4. Learn Tibetan Cooking - Immerse yourself in a hands-on cooking class, learning to prepare traditional dishes like Tsampa (roasted barley flour) or Yak meat.
  5. Join a Pilgrimage Trek - Embark on a multi-day trek with local pilgrims to circumambulate sacred mountains and visit remote monasteries.
  6. Explore the Tibetan Plateau - Go on an organized tour to explore the breathtaking landscapes, nomadic settlements, and stunning lakes that characterize the Tibetan Plateau.

Where to Eat

  1. Kung Fu Kitchen (功夫厨房) - A popular restaurant offering a variety of traditional Tibetan dishes, as well as Sichuan and Chinese cuisine.
  2. Lhasa Restaurant (拉萨餐厅) - Serves authentic Tibetan food in a cozy, rustic setting. Don’t miss their yak meat dishes!
  3. Yak Stew Restaurant (藏式牛肉汤馆) - A local eatery specializing in hearty bowls of yak stew, a staple dish in Tibetan cuisine.
  4. Lhasa International Restaurant (拉萨国际餐厅) - Caters to international travelers with a menu offering Chinese, Indian, and Western dishes.
  5. Tibet Kitchen (藏餐厨房) - Offers a wide selection of Tibetan dishes in a relaxed setting, perfect for trying local specialties.

Where to Stay

  1. Shambhala Palace (山铯宫) - A luxury hotel boasting stunning views of the Potala Palace and offering top-notch service.
  2. Tibet Guest House (藏客栈) - A mid-range option with comfortable rooms, a rooftop restaurant, and convenient location in the city center.
  3. Lhasa Sunlight Hotel (拉萨阳光酒店) - Budget-friendly accommodation with clean rooms, Wi-Fi, and a friendly staff.
  4. Tibet Hostel (藏人旅舍) - A social hostel with dormitory-style rooms, shared facilities, and a lively atmosphere.

Things to Know

  1. Acclimatize to the high altitude before engaging in strenuous activities. Drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol during your first few days in Lhasa.
  2. Dress modestly when visiting monasteries and temples, covering shoulders and knees.
  3. Respect local customs and traditions, and be mindful of cultural sensitivities.
  4. Carry cash (CNY) as many establishments may not accept credit cards, especially outside of Lhasa city center.
  5. Hire a licensed guide or join an organized tour to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable experience in Lhasa.

Transportation

  1. Air Travel - Fly into Lhasa Gonggar Airport (LXA) from major Chinese cities like Beijing, Chengdu, Shanghai, Xian, and Chongqing.
  2. Train - Take the Qinghai-Tibet Railway from Xining or Lanzhou to Lhasa, offering a spectacular journey through diverse landscapes.
  3. Coach/Bus - Travel by coach or bus from cities like Chengdu, Xian, and Chongqing to Lhasa, although the journey can be lengthy due to the high altitude and road conditions.
  4. Taxis/Private Cars - Hire a taxi or private car for local transportation within Lhasa; always negotiate prices beforehand.

Tips

  1. Visit during the spring (March-May) or autumn (September-November) when the weather is milder and there are fewer tourists.
  2. Bring warm clothing as the temperatures can drop significantly, even in summer.
  3. Carry a power bank and adapter for charging your devices on the go.
  4. Purchase travel insurance that covers high-altitude travel, as well as trip cancellations or delays.
  5. Be patient and adaptable, as services may not be as efficient or reliable as in other parts of China.
  6. Embrace the unique culture, history, and beauty that Lhasa has to offer, and create unforgettable memories on your Tibetan adventure!