Lhasa , China

The Best of Lhasa Walking Tour

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About this experience

Together with the professional guide, you will visit the most charming places in the city. Lhasa, the world’s highest capital city, is full of history. Barkhor street is the home of shops. You can find almost anything there.
You will have a chance to explore the city while hearing fascinating facts and legends. Tourists love to take photos with the Yaks in Lhasa. What are they? You will be surprised how many stories lay hidden in the streets, buildings, and corners of Lhasa. What secrets lay hidden in the one thousand rooms of the majestic Potala Palace? Your charming guide will tell you what is special and unique about living in this city. It is perfect for those who are visiting the city for the first time and want to get the most of it!

Available options

The Best of Lhasa Walking Tour

What's included

Professional local guide services.

Detailed itinerary

Lhasa, Tibet, China.

Available languages

Guide guide

CMN EN

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

At the Main entrance of Jokhang Temple (Market Square, Barkhor Street, Chengguan District, Lhasa City, Tibet, China, 850000.)

About Lhasa

Lhasa, the spiritual and cultural heart of Tibet, is renowned for its ancient Buddhist monasteries and vibrant Tibetan culture. Nestled in a valley at an elevation of 3,650 meters, it offers a unique blend of history, spirituality, and breathtaking Himalayan landscapes.

Top Attractions

Potala Palace

The iconic Potala Palace was the residence of the Dalai Lama until the 14th Dalai Lama fled to India in 1959. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of Tibetan Buddhism.

Historical/Religious 2-3 hours ¥100 (includes White Palace and part of Red Palace), ¥200 (includes all areas)

Jokhang Temple

Jokhang Temple is the most sacred temple in Tibet and a pilgrimage site for Tibetan Buddhists. It houses a life-sized statue of Buddha Sakyamuni brought to Tibet by Princess Wen Cheng in the 7th century.

Religious 1-2 hours Free (¥25 for photography)

Barkhor Street

Barkhor Street is a bustling market street surrounding the Jokhang Temple. It's a popular place for pilgrims, locals, and tourists to shop for traditional Tibetan items and souvenirs.

Cultural/Shopping 1-2 hours Varies by purchase

Drepung Monastery

Drepung Monastery is one of the largest and most important monasteries in Tibet. It was once home to over 10,000 monks and is known for its grand architecture and religious significance.

Religious 2-3 hours ¥55

Sera Monastery

Sera Monastery is famous for its lively debates among monks, which take place daily in the monastery's courtyard. It is one of the three main monasteries of the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism.

Religious 1-2 hours ¥55

Must-Try Local Dishes

Momos

Steamed or fried dumplings filled with yak meat, vegetables, or cheese. They are a popular street food and a must-try in Lhasa.

Snack/Dinner Can be vegetarian or vegan

Thenthuk

A hearty noodle soup with vegetables, meat, and sometimes cheese. It's a popular dish in Tibetan households and restaurants.

Soup/Dinner Can be vegetarian or vegan

Yak Butter Tea

A traditional Tibetan beverage made with butter, salt, and tea. It's an acquired taste but a cultural experience.

Drink Contains dairy

Balep Khabsey

Tibetan fried bread or cookies, often flavored with butter and sugar. They are a popular snack and can be found in most bakeries.

Snack/Dessert Contains dairy

Popular Activities

Hiking Mountain biking Trekking Tea house visits Meditation Yoga Monastic tours Traditional dance performances

Best Time to Visit

May to October

This period offers the most pleasant weather with warm days and cool nights. It's ideal for exploring the city's attractions and enjoying the vibrant cultural scene.

10°C to 25°C 50°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Tibetan, Chinese
Widely spoken: Chinese, English (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

Chinese Yuan (CNY)

Time Zone

GMT+8

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Lhasa is generally safe for travelers, but altitude sickness and limited medical facilities can be concerns. Petty crime is rare, but always be aware of your surroundings.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of altitude sickness
• Stay hydrated and rest when needed
• Avoid political discussions

Getting there

By air

Lhasa Gonggar Airport • 60 km from city center

By train

Lhasa Railway Station

By bus

Lhasa Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the primary mode of public transport in Lhasa. They are affordable but can be crowded during peak hours.

Taxis

Available • Apps: DiDi (limited availability)

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Barkhor Lhasa Old Town Doilungdêqên District

Day trips

Yamdrok Lake

100 km from Lhasa • Full day

Yamdrok Lake is one of the holiest lakes in Tibet and is known for its turquoise waters and stunning mountain surroundings. It's a popular destination for pilgrims and nature lovers.

Ganden Monastery

50 km from Lhasa • Full day

Ganden Monastery is one of the most important monasteries in Tibet and the seat of the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism. It offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Namtso Lake

120 km from Lhasa • Full day

Namtso Lake is the highest saltwater lake in the world and is known for its breathtaking beauty and spiritual significance. It's a popular destination for pilgrims and nature enthusiasts.

Festivals

Great Prayer Festival (Monlam Chenmo) • February/March (lunar calendar) Saga Dawa Festival • June/July (lunar calendar) Losar (Tibetan New Year) • February/March (lunar calendar)