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At The White House in Lhasa, visitors can explore the historic building, take in the traditional Tibetan architecture, and learn about its significance in Tibetan history. A must-see is the main hall, where you can view exquisite artwork and prayer items. The surrounding grounds offer peaceful spaces for reflection and photography.
The White Palace, one of the main buildings of the Potala Palace, serves as the Dalai Lama's winter residence and is named for its white exterior walls. The White Palace, once the headquarters of the former Tibetan local government, served as a place for administrative work and rest. The seven-story building houses the Dalai Lama's bedroom, the "Sunlight Hall." The roof partially opens to allow sunlight in, and can be covered with a tarpaulin at night, hence the name "Sunlight Hall."
Plateau mountain climate; May to October
Sunlight Hall, East Hall (Cochin Hall), etc.; 1-3 hours
Peak season: 200 yuan (May 1st - October 31st) Low season: 100 yuan (November 1st - April 30th) 50% discount for students with student ID
9:00-16:00 (Except Tibetan New Year and other holidays and major events)
The White House in Lhasa is an important historical site for Tibetan culture and politics. Once the residence of high-ranking Tibetan officials, it symbolizes the region's rich heritage. Its architecture and artworks reflect the influence of Tibetan Buddhism and local traditions.
The White House is centrally located in Lhasa, Tibet. It can be easily reached by taxi or local buses. Walking from nearby attractions like Jokhang Temple is also possible, as the city center is compact.
The White House is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to visit are early in the morning or late afternoon when the attraction is less crowded. Avoid visiting during Tibetan holidays, as the site may be busier.
The entrance fee for The White House is generally around ¥40. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance. Online ticket purchasing is not currently available.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary for The White House. It is recommended to purchase tickets upon arrival, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Visiting The White House usually takes around 1 to 2 hours, depending on your interest in the historical and cultural details of the site.
The main highlights include the main hall with its stunning Tibetan Buddhist murals, the courtyard, and the intricate carvings and architecture that define Tibetan building styles. The temple artifacts and religious displays are also important to see.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some guides may also offer tours in English. Audio guides are not typically available, but local tour guides can provide valuable insights into the site's history and significance.
The best photography spots include the front of the White House with its grand entrance, the main hall, and the scenic views of the surrounding area, including the distant mountains and city skyline.
Start by exploring the courtyard, then move into the main hall where the most significant religious artifacts are displayed. Take time to admire the intricate architecture before walking around the outer grounds and observing the surrounding scenery.
Night visits or light shows are not available at The White House. It is typically open for daytime visits only, offering a peaceful atmosphere and a glimpse into Tibetan culture during the daylight hours.
The White House tends to be busier during weekends and public holidays. To avoid crowds, visit on weekdays, especially early in the morning or late afternoon.
Basic facilities such as toilets are available on-site. There are no large restaurants or cafes within the premises, but there are small local eateries nearby. Souvenir shops selling Tibetan handicrafts can be found around the area.
The White House is mostly accessible to elderly and children. However, some areas might be challenging for disabled visitors due to stairs and uneven surfaces. It's best to check for accessibility features at the entrance if needed.
Cash is typically required for entry and souvenirs. Mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are commonly accepted in the surrounding areas, but credit cards may not be accepted inside the site itself.
There are several local Tibetan and Chinese restaurants near The White House, offering traditional dishes like momo (dumplings), yak meat, and butter tea. For international cuisine, visitors can find cafes in nearby hotels.
Vegetarian options are widely available, as Tibetan cuisine includes many plant-based dishes. Halal food options may be limited, but can be found in some specialty restaurants around Lhasa.
Nearby hotels include the St. Regis Lhasa Resort and the Lhasa Hotel, both offering luxury accommodation. There are also budget-friendly guesthouses and hostels in the city center for more affordable options.
Other nearby attractions include the Jokhang Temple, Potala Palace, and Norbulingka. All these sites are within a short distance of The White House and can easily be visited in a single day.
Souvenir shops near The White House sell traditional Tibetan items such as Buddhist prayer beads, Tibetan scarves, thangka paintings, and handmade jewelry. These items make for unique and meaningful souvenirs.
After visiting The White House, taxis and local buses are the most convenient transportation options. Lhasa's city center is well-connected, and many other attractions are just a short drive away.
