Lhasa Tibet Travel Tips

Tibet Travel Tips:

1. Respect Cultural Sensitivity:

• Tibet is rich in Buddhist culture and tradition, so it’s crucial to be respectful when visiting monasteries or religious sites. Dress modestly and remove your shoes/hat when entering sacred spaces.
• Avoid taking photos of Tibetans without permission, especially those engaged in religious activities.

2. Acclimatize:

• Lhasa is at a high altitude (3650m), so it’s essential to allow sufficient time to acclimate to prevent altitude sickness. Drink plenty of water and avoid strenuous activity for the first few days.

3. Follow Local Customs:

• Greet locals with a slight bow and “Tashidelek” (pronounced “tashi-de-leck”) which means “hello” or “good luck.”
• When shaking hands, use your right hand as the left hand is considered unclean in Tibetan culture.

4. Mindful Behavior:

• Smoking and littering are prohibited in many areas of Lhasa due to cultural and environmental reasons. Always dispose of waste properly.
• Avoid discussing sensitive topics like politics or religion, as they may be perceived as offensive.

5. Shopping and Bargaining:

• When shopping for souvenirs, bargain politely but respectfully. It’s expected in local markets and helps ensure a fair price for both parties.
• Be aware of the authenticity of goods, particularly items like Tibetan thangkas (religious scroll paintings) or antiques.

6. Communication:

• The primary language spoken in Lhasa is Tibetan, but Mandarin Chinese and some English are also used. It’s helpful to learn a few basic phrases before your visit.
• When communicating with monks, speak calmly and clearly, as they may have limited proficiency in other languages.

7. Dining Etiquette:

• Tea is an essential part of Tibetan culture, so offering or accepting tea is a sign of friendship. Always take small sips when offered tea by locals.
• When eating with chopsticks, hold them near the pointed ends and use a resting position between bites to show respect for the meal and table manners.