Best Hiking Areas in Lhasa, China

Lhasa, the capital city of Tibet Autonomous Region, offers a unique blend of rich cultural heritage and breathtaking natural beauty. If you’re an avid hiker, these are some of the best hiking areas to explore during your visit:

1. Potala Palace Area

The iconic Potala Palace is not just a historical site but also a great starting point for short hikes. The paths around the palace offer stunning views of the city and the distant snow-capped mountains. Remember, photography may be restricted in certain areas due to religious sensitivity.

2. Drepung Monastery

Located about 10 km west of Lhasa, Drepung Monastery is one of the “great three” Gelug monasteries and the largest one in the world. A hike up to the top of the monastery provides a panoramic view of the city and the surrounding valleys.

3. Barkhor Street and Jokhang Temple

Although not technically a hiking trail, walking around the Barkhor Street and visiting the Jokhang Temple is a cultural experience in itself. The labyrinthine street is filled with traditional Tibetan shops and pilgrims circumambulating the temple.

4. Ganden Monastery

Located about 50 km northeast of Lhasa, Ganden Monastery is one of the most important monasteries in Tibet. The hike to the monastery from Dungtse Labrang takes around three hours and offers spectacular views of the valley and the nearby mountains.

5. Yamdrok Lake and Karola Glacier

If you have time for a day trip, consider visiting Yamdrok Lake (also known as “Turquoise Lake”) and the nearby Karola Glacier. The hike around the lake offers stunning views of the turquoise water and the surrounding snow-capped mountains.

Remember to acclimatize properly to the high altitude, drink plenty of fluids, and respect local customs during your hikes in Lhasa. Enjoy your adventure!