Lhasa 拉萨 Travel Guide
Lhasa Overview
Lhasa is an astonishing city and a must see in China if you are able to visit the spiritual land of Tibet. The setting, the history, architecture and the contrasts all make a trip here well worth the time, expense and relative discomfort of high altitude. Tibet is rarely out of the news and little of the news is good but it really is one of these places you need to come and see yourself to make your own mind up.
Best Months to Visit Lhasa
Best Reason to Visit Lhasa
Where to start! The Potala Palace is one of the world’s most extraordinary buildings. However, it is just one part of the puzzle that is Lhasa, a city which is a mix of a deeply religious nomadic culture rubbing shoulders with new China and that is fascinating.
Top Attractions in Lhasa
The Potala Palace once home to the Dalai Lama and one of the architectural wonders of the world. Barkhor and Barkhor Square area is a pilgrimage circuit (called a Kora) and is a mass of people from all over Tibet. The Jokhang Temple, a 1,300 year old place of worship and the spiritual centre of Tibet. It’s rooftop offers magnificent views over old Lhasa. The Potala Kora which encircles the Potala Palace is a fascinating mixture of exotic people, market and religious worship – all to the scent of incense.
Weather Averages for Lhasa
Our Top Lhasa Travel Tip
Visit as soon as you can! Lhasa, and to a lesser extent the rest of Tibet is changing fast. The classic way to get to Lhasa is by the Tibet train from either Beijing or Shanghai. An amazing journey in itself but the train is also the agent of the rapid change. Learn more about Tibet here.
Hand Picked Lhasa Hotels
Our mid-range choices for Lhasa are the Dhood Gu Hotel or the Kiyichu Hotel located in the heart of the Old City close to Barkhor Square. The traditionally decorated rooms get you in the Tibetan mood and many have views of the Potala Palace. In recent years some more luxurious top end hotels have opened and the pick of these is probably the St Regis Lhasa although the Shangri La is also very good.
Explore More of China
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By Phil Stanley & Headseast – TCTC Destination Expert.