Lhasa Tibet Travel Tips

Travel Tips for Tourists in Lhasa, Tibet

Before you go:

  • Altitude Acclimatization: Lhasa is located at a high altitude (3,650 meters/11,975 feet). Plan to spend a few days acclimatizing in lower-altitude cities like Chengdu or Kunming before heading to Lhasa. This allows your body to adjust to the thin air.

  • Altitude Sickness: Be prepared for the effects of altitude sickness (AMS) which are common in Lhasa. Drink plenty of water, avoid alcohol and caffeine, eat light meals, and acclimatize properly. If you experience symptoms like headaches, nausea, dizziness, or fatigue, it’s important to rest and drink more fluids.

  • Weather: Lhasa has a dry climate with distinct seasons.

    • Spring (March-May): Pleasant temperatures with sunny days but expect some snow.

    • Summer (June-August): Warmest season with occasional rain, perfect for hiking and exploring the mountains.

    • Autumn (September-November): Similar to summer but drier. The sky is often clear and blue, making it ideal for sightseeing and photography.

    • Winter (December-February): Cold and dry, with heavy snowfall possible. This season offers a unique perspective on Lhasa’s beauty but be prepared for colder temperatures and potentially limited access to some attractions.

    • Tip: Travel during spring or autumn for the best weather conditions.

  • Visa: Remember that foreigners need a special Chinese visa (Tibet Travel Permit) to visit Lhasa, which is obtained through a registered travel agency.

  • Learn about Tibetan culture: Before visiting Tibet, it’s important to understand and respect their unique customs and traditions.

    • Avoid discussing sensitive topics like politics or religion with strangers.
    • Respect the “clockwise” rule when walking around religious sites.

While in Lhasa:

  • Explore the city: Visit iconic landmarks like the Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, and the Barkhor Street circuit, but remember to acclimatize properly before strenuous activity.

  • Enjoy the scenery: Lhasa is surrounded by stunning mountain views.

    • Take advantage of these by visiting:

      • Potala Palace: This majestic palace offers breathtaking views of Lhasa and its surrounding mountains.

      • Norbulingka Summer Palace: A beautiful palace with gardens that was the traditional summer residence of the Dalai Lama.

      • Sera Monastery: Witness the vibrant debates between monks and experience a glimpse into Tibetan Buddhist monastic life.

      • Jokhang Temple: Observe the intricate architecture and witness traditional Tibetan rituals.

  • Engage in local activities:

    • Experience the bustling crowds and pilgrims circling the sacred Jokhang Temple.
    • Consider visiting during the Shoton Festival for a unique cultural experience.
    • Take a cooking class: Learn to make traditional Tibetan dishes like momos (dumplings) or yak butter tea.

Other tips:

  • Respect the “clockwise” rule: When walking around a temple, always walk clockwise. This is a sign of respect and reverence for the sacredness of the space.
  • Stay informed: Check for updates on travel restrictions and permits before your trip.
  • Pack wisely: Pack warm clothes and comfortable shoes for walking.

Respectful Travel Practices in Lhasa:

  • Dress modestly: This means covering shoulders and knees when visiting religious sites. Avoid revealing clothing or clothing with strong political messages.

  • Remove hats and sunglasses: Inside temples, it’s important to remove anything that might obstruct the view of others. This is a simple way to show respect for the sacredness of the space and allows for better interaction with the environment.

  • Walk around religious sites and stupas in a clockwise direction:

    • Respectful practice: It’s considered disrespectful to walk around these sites in the opposite direction, as they are often seen as representing the journey of life and it is important to follow the traditional path.

  • Don’t step on prayer flags: Prayer flags are an important part of Tibetan religious tradition.

  • Avoid pointing at sacred objects or statues: Instead, use your hand to gesture towards them with your palm facing upwards.

  • Respect personal space: Tibetans are generally polite and friendly people who value their personal space.

  • Ask before taking photos: Always be respectful and ask permission before taking photos of people, especially monks and nuns at religious sites.

  • Dress appropriately for religious sites: When visiting temples or monasteries, dress modestly and cover your shoulders and knees. Remove hats and shoes when entering the temple.

  • Listen to instructions:

    • Follow any rules or guidelines posted at the entrance to religious sites.
    • Be mindful of signs indicating specific behaviors and customs expected within the site.

  • Be aware of the cultural significance of Lhasa’s landmarks before visiting:

    • Understanding why certain traditions are in place will help you appreciate them better.