Things to do in Lhasa
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Top 10 attractions in Lhasa
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.Lhasa · 219m from downtown
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.Damxung · 37.6 km from downtown
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.Damxung · 37.6 km from downtown
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.Lhasa · 1.5 km from downtown
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.Lhasa · 4.3 km from downtown
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.Lhasa · 1.1 km from downtown
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.Lhasa · 2.5 km from downtown
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.Lhasa · 4.9 km from downtown
Sichuan-Tibet Highway
川藏公路Construction began in the 1950s, and it splits into north and south lines around Xinduqiao Town. This highway generally runs from east to west along the 30th parallel north, crossing the Hengduan Mountains and the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. The route spans over 2,000 km and requires crossing high mountain passes over 4,000 meters in altitude, such as Zheduo Mountain, Gao'ersi Mountain, Jianziwan Mountain, and Kazila Mountain, as well as crossing major rivers such as the Dadu River, Jinsha River, Lancang River, and Nujiang. The characteristic of this route is the close integration of the road with the natural plateau environment. Along the way, you will constantly cross mountain passes and travel through river valleys and canyons, with views of diverse landscapes such as snow-capped mountains, grasslands, forests, and rivers, which change significantly. Some sections of the road wind around the mountains, and as the altitude changes, the surrounding vegetation and terrain shift accordingly, giving the entire road a strong sense of spatial variation.Maizhokunggar · 7.4 km from downtown
Lhasa River
The Lhasa River, called Jiqu in Tibetan, originates from the southern foot of the Nyainqentanglha Mountain, flows southwest through Lhasa City, and then joins the Brahmaputra River in Qushui County. The lower river valley is relatively open and is the main farming area in Tibet. Lhasa River is the mother river of Lhasa City and has a great influence on the development of Lhasa. In 633 AD, after the Tubo monarch Songtsan Gampo unified the Tibetan tribes, he moved the capital to the Lhasa River Valley, and the Lhasa River Basin developed along with it, gradually becoming the central area of economy, culture, transportation and religion in the Tibetan Plateau. The Lhasa River Basin is about 551 kilometers long from east to west, with a drainage area of 32,471 square kilometers. It is the largest tributary of the Yarlung Zangbo River Basin. The climate here is mild, the terrain is flat, the soil is thick, the water source is abundant, and the soil quality is good. The basin is rich in plateau animals, plants and geothermal resources, making it one of the main grain producing areas in Tibet. You may not be able to spend so long with the Lhasa River like the locals, but in the evening, you can take a walk by the river near Xianzu Island and Tibet University, and enjoy the beauty of the sunset touching the horizon. What's even better is that there are many restaurants nearby, so you don't have to worry about food and clothing at all.Lhasa · 14.2 km from downtown
Free things to do in Lhasa
Potala Palace
Lhasa · 219m from downtownNamtso National Park
Damxung · 37.6 km from downtownNamtso
Damxung · 37.6 km from downtownBook now for tomorrow, Cancel anytimeJokhang Temple
Lhasa · 1.5 km from downtownPrincess Wencheng Theater
Lhasa · 4.3 km from downtownImmediate access, Book now for today
Princess Wencheng Drama
Lhasa · 4.4 km from downtownImmediate access, Book now for todayBarkhor Street
Lhasa · 1.1 km from downtownNorbulingka
Lhasa · 2.5 km from downtownSera Monastery
Lhasa · 4.9 km from downtownSichuan-Tibet Highway
Maizhokunggar · 7.4 km from downtown
More ways to travel from Lhasa
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What travellers say about Lhasa
M29***03September 30, 2026
5.0
Our tour guide, Mr. Cheng, was very handsome, gave a very detailed explanation, and had excellent service. If you have the chance, you must experience the charm of the Potala Palace. Highly recommended! 👍👍👍
Potala Palace
M22***09October 16, 2025
5.0
You can't drive in, you can only take the scenic area's sightseeing bus. This is necessary to protect the ecological environment, so support it!
The lake is huge, with varying shades of blue from shallow to deep. There are many birds around the lake, and it's truly beautiful. A must-see when you're in Lhasa.
Namtso National Park
Anonymous userOctober 9, 2026
5.0
Absolutely beautiful.
The shuttle bus ride takes over half an hour and is quite large.
There's so much trash on the mountain!!! It's not the scenic area's fault. People can bring oxygen cylinders up, so why can't they bring empty ones down?!
Namtso
李肢强October 8, 2026
5.0
Visiting Jokhang Temple again after many years, the entrance has been significantly improved, making it look more like a proper tourist attraction. The interior remains the same, but the management is more comprehensive; however, the third floor is no longer open to the public. It's a must-see attraction on any trip to Lhasa.
Jokhang Temple
Anonymous userJuly 31, 2026
5.0
When visiting Lhasa, seeing the Princess Wencheng Theater is a must-do attraction. The theater is quite large, with a museum nearby, and the Potala Palace is visible in the distance directly opposite. It's definitely worth a visit.
Princess Wencheng Theater
Michelle Okano AnzanelloSeptember 26, 2023
4.0
Barkor Street where you can buy souvenirs for a fair price. On weekends you will find many locals on their way to Jokhang Temple. If you want some Western food, I’m this street also has a KFC and Pizza Hut.
Barkhor Street
Anonymous userAugust 16, 2025
5.0
While Norbulingka lacked the stunning blue skies and white clouds, the moist air made mainland tourists feel more relaxed. Our Tibetan guide, Jiazhen, provided a very detailed explanation, which was a welcome change from a cursory visit. There's also a small zoo within the park, which was a delight for the children.
Norbulingka
黑豹ASeptember 1, 2025
5.0
Sera Monastery, officially known as "Sera Mahayana Monastery," is located at the foot of Sera Utse Mountain in the northern suburbs of Lhasa. It is one of the six principal monasteries of the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism, and along with Drepung Monastery and Ganden Monastery, is considered one of the three great monasteries of Lhasa. Construction began in the 17th year of the Yongle reign of the Ming Dynasty by Tsongkhapa's disciple Shakya Yeshe and was completed in 1434. The monastery houses the Tsokchen Hall, three large datsangs, and other buildings, housing tens of thousands of Buddha statues and numerous murals. Its unique Buddhist debates make it a vital venue for understanding Tibetan Buddhist culture.
Sera Monastery
安迪珠宝April 1, 2025
5.0
The scenery of the Sichuan-Tibet Highway is very beautiful. You can go for fun if you pass through Kangding, or go to Bomi and Nyingchi to see the peach blossoms, or go to Basu to see Dongda Mountain. The only difference is that the altitude is a bit high, so you have to take care of your health.
Sichuan-Tibet Highway
妙珍88December 15, 2025
5.0
The valley carved out by the Lhasa River is one of the important birthplaces of Tibetan culture and the earliest settlement of Tibetan people. It has a relatively low altitude and beautiful natural scenery along the way.
Lhasa River
