Lhasa拉萨
The Potala Palace, the Jokhang Temple and the pilgrim circuits of the Barkhor — at 3,650 m, on a permit-based guided trip.
Photo: Stan Adam · Public domain · via Wikimedia Commons
- Time needed
- 3–4 days (including acclimatisation)
- Best time
- April–June and September–October
- Sights covered
- 4 must-sees
Why visit Lhasa
Lhasa has been the spiritual centre of Tibetan Buddhism since the 7th century, when the Jokhang Temple was founded. The Potala Palace, winter residence of the Dalai Lamas from the 17th century, rises above the city; together with the Jokhang and the Norbulingka it forms a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Foreign visitors must travel with a licensed guide on an agency itinerary and hold a Tibet Travel Permit. Within Lhasa there is usually free time to walk the Barkhor and sit in teahouses, and the city is where most people spend two or three days acclimatising before travelling further.
Must-see in Lhasa
- Potala Palace — Timed entry with a limited visit length.
- Jokhang Temple & Barkhor — Walk the kora clockwise with pilgrims.
- Sera Monastery — Afternoon monk debates on most weekdays.
- Norbulingka — The Dalai Lamas’ summer palace and gardens.
Getting there, getting around, staying
- Best time to visit
- April–June and September–October.
- Getting there
- Fly from Chengdu, Chongqing, Xi’an and other cities, or take the train from Xining. Your agency must issue the Tibet permit before you can board.
- Getting around
- With your guide and driver; walk the old town.
- Stay: Old town near the Barkhor
- Walk to the Jokhang and Potala.
What to eat in Lhasa
- Momo dumplings.
- Thukpa noodle soup.
- Sweet tea in a local teahouse.
Day trips
- Namtso Lake (overnight recommended).
- Ganden Monastery.
Field notes
- Take the first 24 hours very easy; avoid showers and alcohol on arrival day if you feel unwell.
- Photography is restricted inside temple halls.
Routes that include Lhasa
FAQ
How long does a Tibet permit take?
Agencies typically ask for passport and visa (or visa-free entry) details a few weeks before travel. Processing time varies, and permits can be suspended without notice.
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