Things to do in Lhasa

No. 1 of Best Things to Do in Tibet

Potala Palace

The Potala Palace is the symbol of Xizang and a sacred place in the hearts of all pilgrims! "Potala" is a Sanskrit word, also translated as "Putuo", which originally refers to the residence of Guanyin Bodhisattva. When you come here, you can not only view the large number of historical relics collected in the palace, appreciate the wonderful architectural art of the Tibetan people, but also have a baptism of the soul in that holy atmosphere. The origin of the Potala Palace According to historical records: In the 1930s of the seventh century AD, the 33rd Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo moved the capital to Lhasa and began to build the Potala Palace. Since then, major religious and political ceremonies have been held here, and it has become the ruling center of Xizang integration of politics and religion. The White Palace and the Red Palace The Potala Palace has a distinct Tibetan style and is majestic. It is the existing complete palace-style building complex in Xizang and is known as one of the world's top ten earth buildings. Its main buildings are divided into two parts: the White Palace and the Red Palace. The White Palace is named after its white exterior wall. It is the place where the lamas live and conduct political activities. Because the sun shines all day long, it is called the East and West Sunlight Palaces. The Red Palace is located at the top center of the Potala Palace. Its outer wall is red and it consists of many stupas and various Buddhist temples. Historical relics The Potala Palace houses and preserves a large number of historical relics, including stupas, statues, murals, thangkas, scriptures and books, as well as gold books, jade books, gold seals granted by the emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties, which show the historical relationship between the Xizang local government and the central government, as well as gold and silver wares, jade wares, porcelain, enamel and handicrafts. Among them, the eight stupas from the fifth generation are eye-catching. They are all magnificent and decorated with a dazzling array of gems, which can be called a palace of art.

No. 2 of Best Things to Do in Tibet

Namtso

Namtso is located on the northern Xizang plateau north of Lhasa. "Namtso" means "heavenly lake" in Tibetan and is called "Tengri Sea" in Mongolian, both sharing the same meaning. Along with Yamdrok Yumtso and Mapam Yumtso, it is known as one of the three holy lakes of Xizang. With a surface elevation of over 4700 m, it stretches more than 70 km from east to west and covers nearly 2000 km², making it the second largest saltwater lake in Xizang. Its southern shore is backed by the continuous Nyenchen Tanglha snow-capped mountains, whose peaks reflect clearly in the sapphire-blue lake water on calm sunny days. According to local legends, these mountains and Namtso have been companions for millennia, adding a touch of tenderness to the landscape. Lake tour Namtso means "Tengri Sea" in Mongolian and is said to be the sacred site of the Buddhist deity Chakrasamvara, making it a renowned pilgrimage destination in Tibetan Buddhism. During the Year of the Sheep, it is believed that buddhas, bodhisattvas, and protector deities gather at Namtso to hold grand religious ceremonies. If devotees circle the lake and chant scriptures once during this time, it is considered more meritorious than doing so 100,000 times in ordinary years, bringing immeasurable blessings. Thus, during the Year of the Sheep, monastic and lay devotees undertake long journeys to circumambulate the lake. Many pilgrims visit Namtso during the Saga Dawa festival on the 15th day of the fourth month in the Tibetan calendar. 1-day tour Many travel agencies in Lhasa offer 1-day tour packages to Namtso. The typical itinerary involves departing in the morning, arriving after 3-4 hours, spending 2-3 hours exploring, and then returning the same way. If you don't want a private charter, this is the only option available and also the conventional way to visit Namtso. For those who prefer to avoid the crowds, you can arrange a private charter or find a shared transfer in Lhasa city. While the route remains the same, the advantage is greater itinerary flexibility, along with the option to stay overnight by the lakeshore. Leaving Damxung County and crossing the Nagen La Pass at an elevation of 5190 m, one can glimpse the vast sapphire-blue waters in the distance. By the lakeside stand two towering boulders side by side, known as the welcoming stones of Namtso or the husband-and-wife stones. Legend has it they are the gatekeepers of Namtso. It is said they represent the goddess who governs the wealth of northern Xizang's grasslands. Merchants would pray here for her blessing before business trips to ensure prosperity, hence these stones are also called the wealth deity stones. A number of prefabricated houses have been built near Tashi Peninsula, including restaurants and inns. This is where Namtso offers food and stay by the lake. If you come to Namtso by private charter, you can spend a night here. You can enjoy the beautiful sunset at dusk, wake up early to greet the sunrise on Tashi Peninsula, or gaze at the sky by Namtso's lake at midnight, where you can even discern the outline of the Milky Way. The lake area features high altitude, strong winds, and intense UV radiation. Even in midsummer, temperatures can drop to around 10°C in the morning and evening, so packing a thick coat, sunglasses, and sunscreen is advisable. Slow down when moving through mountain passes or along the lakeshore to allow your body time to adjust. Please show respect when observing pilgrims circling the lake or photographing mani stones and prayer flags, and avoid stepping on the mani piles. Most travelers make a round-trip from Lhasa in a single day, but we recommend setting aside a full day and bringing your own snacks and hot water. From June to September, the lakeside grasslands are lush with vegetation and wildflowers, offering exceptionally rich scenery. In winter, the frozen lake and vast landscape create a unique atmosphere, but pay close attention to weather conditions and your physical state before traveling.

Namtso National Park

Namtso National Park is located between Damxung County of Lhasa and Baingoin County of Nagqu, situated on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau known as the "roof of the world." The attraction includes Namtso, the main peak of Nyenchen Tanglha, bird islands on the lake, rock carvings, Yangbajing, and other attractions. The core attraction of the park, Namtso, is one of the three holy lakes and also one of the world's highest-altitude saltwater lakes. Under sunlight, Namtso's lake surface appears sapphire blue, resembling jade fallen from the sky, earning it the title "heavenly lake" and making it a renowned site in Tibetan Buddhism. The lake contains three larger islands, which are rarely disturbed by the outside world and host diverse bird populations, hence called bird islands. To the south of Namtso lies the perpetually snow-capped Nyenchen Tanglha Mountains, while its northern and western sides feature plateau hills and expansive lakeshores. In the folk songs and legends of local herders and hunters, Nyenchen Tanglha and Namtso are not only striking sacred mountains and lakes but also inseparable lovers and spouses. Nyenchen Tanglha appears more majestic against the backdrop of Namtso, while Namtso becomes even more enchanting with the reflection of Nyenchen Tanglha.

No. 1 of Global Traveller-Picked Attractions in Lhasa

Jokhang Temple

Jokhang Temple, known as "Jokhang" in Tibetan and also called "Tsulag Khang," is the ultimate destination for Tibetan Buddhist devotees. In their hearts, Jokhang Temple is as sacred as the Potala Palace. Both geographically and spiritually, Jokhang Temple is the true holy site and center of Tibetan Buddhism, holding an exceptionally lofty and pure status in Tibetan Buddhist history. Built in the mid-7th century by Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo to enshrine the 8-year-old life-sized statue of Sakyamuni brought by his Nepalese princess Bhrikuti from her hometown of Kathmandu, Jokhang Temple gained further prominence in 1409 when Tsongkhapa, the founder of the Gelug school, propagated Buddhist teachings and held the Great Prayer Festival here, solidifying its pivotal role in Tibetan Buddhist history. In the 8th century, the 12-year-old life-sized statue of Sakyamuni brought by Princess Wencheng of the Tang Dynasty from Chang'an was enshrined in Jokhang Temple, becoming its most treasured relic and a must-see for travelers and pilgrims alike. In addition, the temple houses nearly 1 km-long Tibetan-style murals depicting "Princess Wencheng's journey to Tibet" and "The construction of Jokhang Temple," as well as two embroidered thangkas of guardian deities from the Ming Dynasty, which are rare artistic treasures. Lhasa has three circumambulation routes—inner, middle, and outer—all centered around Jokhang Temple. The inner route, called "Nangkhor," circles the Jokhang Hall within the temple. The middle route, called "Barkhor," goes around the outer perimeter of Jokhang Temple. The outer route, called "Lingkhor," encompasses the Potala Palace, Chakpori Hill, Ramoche Temple, and Jokhang Temple. Attraction guide: Entering Jokhang Temple through the main gate leads to a courtyard. On the east side of the courtyard are rows of butter lamps, which remain lit year-round as devotees replenish the butter daily. Behind the butter lamps is the main entrance to Jokhang Temple's central hall. To the left of the entrance is a statue of Padmasambhava, founder of the Nyingma school, and to the right is Jampa Buddha, also known as Maitreya or the Future Buddha. The right wall features murals depicting the temple's founding, including scenes of the Potala Palace in the 7th century and the lake-filling construction of Jokhang Temple. Proceeding clockwise, visitors encounter the chapel dedicated to Tsongkhapa, founder of the Gelug school, and his eight disciples. Continuing right, passing the Yaksha and Naga chapels, and beyond hundreds of butter lamps lies the renowned "Jokhang" Hall—the heart and essence of the temple. At its center is the main assembly hall, where monks chant and meditate, surrounded by smaller chapels. The unmissable highlight is the central chapel housing the 12-year-old life-sized golden statue of Sakyamuni, brought by Princess Wencheng. This sacred center of Jokhang Temple is the ultimate destination for devout pilgrims. Stairs beside the courtyard lead to the second and third floors. The second floor features the Dharmaraja Chapel, with statues of King Songtsen Gampo, Princess Wencheng, and Princess Bhrikuti, as well as the Palden Lhamo Chapel dedicated to the protective deity. The spacious terrace on the second floor offers a panoramic view of the Potala Palace, making it an ideal photo spot. The third floor's golden roofs are another attraction, though this level is rarely open to the public. If fortunate enough to ascend, visitors are awestruck by the four resplendent golden pinnacles.

Princess Wencheng Theater

Princess Wencheng Theater is located in Cijuelin Valley on the south bank of Lhasa River. It reconstructs the epic of marriage 1,300 years ago with an open-air stage at an altitude of more than 3,000 meters. This high-altitude live-action theater, backed by the mountains projected by the Potala Palace, uses the natural mountain as a curtain, and uses the starry sky, snow-capped peaks and Tibetan watchtowers to interpret the magnificent chapter of the integration of Han and Tibetan civilizations. The core of the theater is the 90-minute large-scale live-action drama "Princess Wencheng". On the stage of more than 20,000 square meters, more than a dozen Tibetan and Han actors recreate the legend of the princess carrying the life-size statue of Sakyamuni at the age of 12 into Tibet with scenes such as galloping horses, moving Buddhist temples, and pouring waterfalls. Scenes such as the collapse of the Winter Palace, the snowy wedding, and the Tibetan wedding, combined with laser-projected thangkas and real herds of cattle and sheep, draw the audience into the torrent of history. The theater is surrounded by rich supporting facilities, and the Princess Wencheng Tibetan Cultural Park is full of special cultural and creative products. Every time there is a performance, there will be a grand garden party, which is very lively.

No. 3 of Night Attractions in Tibet

Barkhor Street

Barkhor Street, also known as Bajiao Street located in Lhasa, Tibet. The street is a well known ancient street representing the culture and folk customs of Tibet. While walking on the street, you can experience what life was like in the past, and experience the food and culture of natives to Lhasa. You can view and learn things from traditional dress, and dances, to traditional meals, to the architecture of the town itself, which has been well preserved throughout the years. Barkhor Street is a must-visit location to experience in Lhasa.

No. 10 of Best Things to Do in Tibet

Tibet Museum

The Tibet Museum is located across the road in the east of Norbulingka in Lhasa City. It is the first museum with modern functions in Tibet. There are many precious cultural relics in the museum, showing the splendid culture and long history of the unique charm of the Tibetan nation. The museum is divided into three floors, the first floor is a tourist souvenir shop, the second floor is a Tibetan history exhibition, and the third floor is special exhibitions and temporary exhibitions such as thangkas, animals and plants, and jade. The exhibition hall of the museum consists of four major parts: prehistoric culture, indivisible history, culture and art, and folk culture. Each exhibition hall displays a wealth of treasures in the collection, such as statues of Buddha and Bodhisattva in various textures and shapes, handwritten Tibetan classics dipped in gold powder, silver powder, coral powder, etc. Jade sticks used in rituals, colorful thangkas, various musical instruments and instruments, handicrafts with distinctive national characteristics, pottery with unique styles, etc., from Tibetan history, culture, art, religion, folk customs, etc. It shows the audience the splendid culture and long history of the Tibetan people's unique charm. The prehistoric culture exhibition hall displays the stone chips, stone cores and other Paleolithic tools of daily life excavated in northern Tibet in the early days, as well as stone adzes, stone axes, stone chisels and stone clusters, bone cones, bones unearthed in Qamdo in the late Neolithic Age. The needles and various red, grey and black pottery utensils completely reproduce several representative eras before Tibet entered a civilized society: the Paleolithic, Neolithic, Bronze Age and Iron Age. The inseparable history exhibition hall intuitively reveals that Tibet has been an important and inseparable part of China since ancient times through some precious historical materials. The two exhibition halls of culture and art and folk culture vividly show the audience the long history and splendid culture of Tibet with exquisite Buddhist statues, thangkas, pottery, scriptures and other precious cultural relics. A must-see in all the collections of the Fifth Golden Seal is the Fifth Golden Seal. At that time, Ngawang Lobsang Gyatso went to Beijing for pilgrimage in order to obtain the support of the central government of the Qing Dynasty, and he was bestowed upon him after the fifth Ngawang Lhasang Gyatso was enshrined in Shunzhi. The golden seal is made of pure gold and weighs 8.5 kilograms. The seals are written in Han, Tibetan, Manchu and Mongolian. In addition, there is also a legend that Princess Wencheng drew a "witch map" thangka about the terrain of the Tibetan area. In the picture, a witch is lying on her back. There are temples built in twelve important parts of her body, such as the joints and the heart. The Jokhang Temple is located at the heart of the witch, which has a profound meaning. Audio guides are available in the museum and can be rented for free at the gate. Entering the exhibition hall, in front of different exhibits, you can hear the explanations of the exhibits in four languages including Tibetan, Chinese, Japanese and English. For the protection of cultural relics, the museum stipulates that photography is not allowed in the exhibition hall, please follow the regulations.

No. 1 of Activities in Tibet

Temple Visits in Lhasa

No. 1 of Family-friendly Attractions in Tibet

Norbulingka

Norbulingka is a palace and surrounding park in Lhasa, Tibet, which has a lot of relics and treasures remained. As a huge and exquisite park of Tibet, there are more than 300 rooms in it. Norbulingka has a beautiful scenery surrounded by various types and numbers of plants and flowers, which is like a wondering place of the earth.

No. 14 of Best Things to Do in Tibet

Sera Monastery

Sera Monastery is located at the foot of Sera Utsé Mountain in the northern suburbs of Lhasa, one of the three great monasteries of Lhasa and the second largest monastery in Tibet. The architecture within the monastery is of Tibetan style, with the main hall being resplendent and grand. The monastery houses numerous Buddha statues, as well as a vast collection of precious artistic treasures such as scriptures, exquisite thangkas, appliqué thangkas, and murals, making it an excellent place for worship or sightseeing. Famous debate: The debate at Sera Monastery has long been renowned in Tibet and is a highlight for visitors. The debate ceremony takes place in the debate courtyard north of the monastery, starting daily at 3 p.m. and lasting until 5 p.m., except on Sundays and special holidays. During the debate, monks sit on the ground while another stands opposite, engaging in exaggerated motions to argue scriptures, which is quite fascinating. Exploring Sera Monastery's architecture: Visitors can walk around to admire the monastery's halls. The entire monastery has a perimeter of approx. 1.5 km, with its layout centered around the Tsokchen Hall, surrounded by numerous buildings of various colleges. Unlike Han Chinese Buddhist architecture, Sera Monastery is not symmetrically arranged but scattered across the mountainside. Notable halls include the Hayagriva Chapel and the Tsokchen Hall, which are must-sees. The Hayagriva Chapel enshrines the famous statue of Hayagriva, a powerful guardian deity in Tibetan Vajrayana Buddhism believed to ward off evil and resolve difficulties. Legend has it that this statue was unearthed by Tsongkhapa, founder of the Gelug school, after he heard a horse's neigh during a walk. Thus, it is said to possess strong exorcising powers in Tibetan Buddhist lore. This is also a focal point for devotees visiting Sera Monastery, where one can join the faithful in prayers for blessings and protection. The central Tsokchen Hall is the largest structure in Sera Monastery, supported by 108 pillars and capable of accommodating over 8,000 monks during religious ceremonies. Inside, a statue of the monastery's founder, Shakya Yeshe, features a unique hat inscribed with Sanskrit, gifted by the Yongle Emperor of the Ming Dynasty during his preaching in inland China—a detail worth discovering firsthand. Hiking the back mountain for a panoramic view of Lhasa: The back mountain of Sera Monastery offers a high vantage point, with the summit providing a full view of Lhasa, making it a favorite spot for hiking enthusiasts. The mountain has a relative height of approx. 500 m, and the hike takes around 4 hrs, requiring moderate physical fitness. However, even a slight ascent along the trail rewards hikers with expansive views of Lhasa, so travelers with limited stamina or those prone to altitude sickness are advised not to push to the summit.