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Two stone steles stand in front of the main entrance to the Jokhang Temple. The southern one is the Tang-Tibetan Alliance Stele, also known as the "Changqing Alliance Stele" or the "Uncle-Nephew Alliance Stele." The stele is 342 cm high, 82 cm wide, and 35 cm thick, and is inscribed in both Chinese and Tibetan. It was built in 823 AD by the Tibetan king to commemorate the Tang-Tibetan Alliance held between the first and second years of the Changqing period.
Plateau mountain climate; suitable for all seasons
Monument of the Tang-Tibetan Alliance: 10-30 minutes
free
All day
The Tang-Tibetan Alliance Monument commemorates the historical alliance between the Tang Dynasty and Tibet. This alliance played a crucial role in the cultural and political interactions between China and Tibet during the 7th century, paving the way for future diplomatic and cultural exchanges.
The monument is located in Lhasa, Tibet, easily accessible by taxi or private transport. It’s not directly served by public metro or bus, but taxis are the most convenient option for getting there. Walking is also an option if you are nearby.
The monument is open daily from 8 AM to 6 PM. The best time to visit is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild and pleasant, with fewer tourists. Early mornings and late afternoons are also quieter times to explore.
The entrance fee is approximately 30-50 CNY. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the monument. It’s recommended to buy tickets directly at the entrance, as online purchasing is not always available.
It is not necessary to book tickets in advance, but during peak tourist seasons, booking a few days in advance can help secure your spot and avoid long waits.
A visit to the Tang-Tibetan Alliance Monument typically takes 1-2 hours, depending on how much time you want to spend exploring the surrounding area and taking photographs.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some English-speaking guides may be arranged. Audio guides are typically not available, but guided tours offer more detailed historical insights.
Start at the monument to understand its historical context, then take a walk around the area to enjoy the scenic views and cultural significance of the location. If time allows, visit nearby temples and sites in Lhasa for a deeper cultural experience.
Currently, there are no night visits or light shows at the Tang-Tibetan Alliance Monument. Special tours may be available upon request for larger groups or during certain events.
The monument can be crowded during holidays or peak tourist seasons. The best times to visit are during the weekdays, particularly in the morning or late afternoon when the site is less crowded.
There are basic facilities such as toilets, water fountains, and resting areas near the monument. However, there are limited food and shopping options directly at the site. For a wider range of facilities, head to central Lhasa.
The site is mostly accessible, with paved pathways for easy walking. However, there are some areas with steps, so visitors with mobility challenges may find it difficult to fully explore the monument. It's advisable to inquire about specific accessibility services in advance.
Cash is generally accepted, but mobile payments (like Alipay or WeChat Pay) are commonly used throughout Lhasa. Credit cards may not be accepted at smaller shops or the monument entrance.
There are a few local restaurants and cafes around Lhasa city, offering Tibetan cuisine and some Chinese dishes. For a broader selection, head to Lhasa’s city center where you’ll find a variety of dining options.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available in Lhasa, especially in Tibetan restaurants. Halal food can also be found, particularly near areas frequented by Muslim communities.
There are various accommodations in Lhasa, ranging from budget guesthouses to more luxurious hotels. Some popular options include the Lhasa Hotel and the St. Regis Lhasa Resort, both of which offer comfortable stays near the city center.
Yes, there are souvenir shops in Lhasa selling traditional Tibetan handicrafts such as Thangka paintings, handwoven carpets, jewelry, and prayer beads.
