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: Fly into Gonggar Airport (60km from city) for quickest acclimatization, or take the scenic Qinghai-Tibet Railway. Book domestic flights within China for better prices. Pre-arrange airport transfers as taxis are limited. Tibet permits are mandatory and must be obtained through registered tour operators.

Money: Chinese Yuan (CNY) is the only accepted currency. Bring sufficient cash as international cards rarely work outside major hotels. ATMs are scarce and unreliable. Budget hotels and local restaurants only accept cash. Exchange money in mainland China before arriving.

Cultural Respect: Walk clockwise around monasteries and stupas. Remove hats when entering temples and avoid pointing feet toward altars. Don't photograph without permission, especially monks or inside sacred spaces. Dress modestly covering shoulders and knees. Learn basic Tibetan greetings like 'Tashi Delek.'

Food Safety: Stick to bottled water and avoid raw vegetables initially. Try traditional yak butter tea and tsampa but introduce gradually. Street food from busy stalls is generally safe. Avoid dairy products outside reputable restaurants. Pack probiotics and basic stomach medications for dietary adjustment.

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.