Things to Do in Lhasa

About Lhasa

Lhasa sits at 3,650 meters above sea level, and the altitude hits you before the culture does. The city's name means "Place of the Gods." Whether you believe that depends on your tolerance for thin air and crowds of pilgrims. The Potala Palace dominates the skyline. Its golden roofs reflect hard mountain light, and prayer flags snap in the wind. Red-robed monks move through monastery courtyards that haven't changed much in centuries—the deep horn blasts and chanting create an atmosphere you won't find anywhere else. Barkhor Street is chaos. Good chaos. Devotees circle the street spinning prayer wheels while yak butter tea and juniper incense fill the air. Time works differently here, measured in prostrations and prayers rather than schedules. This is the heart of Tibetan Buddhism. The city draws pilgrims and travelers who want something beyond standard tourism—just know that the combination of altitude, crowds, and intensity makes this a challenging trip, not an easy one.

Travel Tips

Transportation: Taxis in Lhasa charge CNY 10 ($1.40) flat within the city center. Local buses cost CNY 1 ($0.14). For trips to Namtso Lake, hire a driver for about CNY 600-1000 ($84-140) per day. Walking is the best way to explore the Barkhor area. A Tibet Travel Permit is mandatory and must be arranged through a registered tour agency.

Money: A Tibetan meal of thukpa and momos costs CNY 20-40 ($2.80-5.60). Mid-range restaurants charge CNY 50-100 ($7-14). ATMs are around Barkhor Street. Credit cards work at hotels but not at smaller shops. Prayer flags cost CNY 5-10 ($0.70-1.40) at the Barkhor market.

Cultural Respect: Walk clockwise around the Jokhang Temple and Potala Palace - going against the flow causes real offense. Remove your hat inside temples. Photography fees apply at most sites, typically CNY 20-50 ($2.80-7) per room. Altitude sickness affects most visitors at 3,650 meters, so rest the first day and drink plenty of water.

Food Safety: Tibetan momos (steamed dumplings) cost CNY 8-15 ($1.10-2.10) along the Barkhor circuit. Yak butter tea costs CNY 8 ($1.10) per thermos. Thenthuk (hand-pulled noodle soup) runs CNY 15-25 ($2.10-3.50). Sweet tea costs CNY 3-5 ($0.42-0.70) per glass.

When to Visit

Lhasa's optimal visiting season spans May through October, with July-August being peak months featuring temperatures of 15-25°C (59-77°F) and minimal rainfall (100-150mm). Expect 40-60% higher accommodation prices during this period. June and September offer the sweet spot with pleasant 10-20°C weather, fewer crowds, and 20-30% lower costs. Winter (November-March) brings harsh conditions with temperatures dropping to -15°C (5°F), but has authentic local experiences and 50% cheaper rates for hardy travelers. The monsoon barely touches Lhasa, making summer surprisingly dry. Spring (April-May) showcases blooming landscapes with mild 5-15°C temperatures and moderate pricing. Key festivals include Tibetan New Year (February/March), Saga Dawa Festival (May/June celebrating Buddha's enlightenment), and Shoton Festival (August featuring opera performances). Photography ensoiasts should visit October-November for crystal-clear mountain views and golden hour lighting. Altitude considerations favor gradual acclimatization, making longer stays preferable regardless of season. Budget travelers benefit from November-March visits, while luxury seekers should target May-June or September for optimal weather-comfort balance.