Lhasa

Lhasa, the capital of Tibet, sits at an elevation of 3,656 meters on the Tibetan Plateau. This ancient city is home to significant Tibetan Buddhist sites like the Potala Palace and Jokhang Temple. As you explore Lhasa's alleys and markets, you'll encounter pilgrims turning prayer wheels, monks discussing scripture, and locals sipping yak butter tea.

Visiting Jokhang Temple

Jokhang Temple is located in the heart of Lhasa and plays a crucial role in Tibetan Buddhism. Built in the 7th century, this four-story building houses a statue of the Buddha that many Tibetans revere. You'll see Tibetan pilgrims who have traveled long distances prostrating themselves on the stone plaza outside. Join the devotees as they circle the temple, turning prayer wheels and reciting mantras.

Exploring the Potala Palace

The Potala Palace rises above Lhasa's skyline and served as the winter residence of the Dalai Lamas. The palace complex contains over 1,000 rooms across 13 floors, including temples, living spaces, and tombs. As you climb the steep steps to the White Palace, you'll see Lhasa and the surrounding mountains spread out below you.

Watching Monk Debates at Sera Monastery

At Sera Monastery, located on the outskirts of Lhasa, you can observe the daily monk debates. Young monks practice their understanding of Buddhist philosophy through animated discussions in the monastery's courtyard every afternoon except Sunday.

Walking Through the Barkhor

Experience local life in the Barkhor, the old town area around Jokhang Temple. This circular street serves as both a pilgrimage route and a market. You'll find stalls selling prayer flags, incense, traditional Tibetan clothing, and jewelry. Look out for Tibetan women wearing distinctive coral and turquoise jewelry.

Learning at the Tibet Museum

The Tibet Museum displays over 1,000 artifacts, including ancient Buddhist texts, traditional clothing, and Tibetan art and crafts. The exhibits provide context for what you'll see throughout Lhasa.

Trying Tibetan Food

Tibetan cuisine is hearty and warming, adapted to the high-altitude environment. Try momos, steamed dumplings filled with meat or vegetables, often served with a spicy sauce. Another local dish is tsampa, roasted barley flour mixed with butter tea to form a dough. Visit a traditional Tibetan teahouse to try yak butter tea and local snacks.

Traveling to and Within Lhasa

You can reach Lhasa by air or rail from major Chinese cities. The Qinghai-Tibet Railway journey crosses the Tibetan Plateau, while flights to Lhasa Gonggar Airport are faster. In the city, you can use taxis and public buses, but many attractions in the old town are within walking distance.

Best Times to Visit

Lhasa receives over 3,000 hours of sunshine each year. April to October typically has milder weather and is a good time to visit. Remember that Lhasa's high altitude can cause sickness, so plan to take it easy for your first few days to adjust.