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Located southeast of Norbulingka in Lhasa, the Tibet Museum is Tibet's first modern museum. It houses numerous precious cultural relics, showcasing the uniquely charming and splendid culture and long history of the Tibetan people. The central axis of the museum houses the Preface Hall, the Main Exhibition Hall, and the Cultural Relics Storehouse.
The Tibet Museum has a rich collection of cultural relics with strong ethnic characteristics, including cultural relics from the central government's administration of Tibet in successive dynasties, Buddha statues, thangkas, ancient books and classics, porcelain, jade, folk relics, and prehistoric relics discovered by archaeology.
Suitable for all seasons
Recommended play time: 2-3 hours
free
Summer and Autumn (May 1st - October 31st): 9:30-17:30
Winter and spring (November 1st - April 30th): 10:30-17:00
Closed on Mondays (except holidays)
The museum will be closed for renovation and expansion starting December 1, 2016. The closure will last for 3-5 years.
The Tibet Museum, opened in 1999 in Lhasa, is Tibet’s largest museum. It preserves and showcases the region’s rich cultural heritage, including Tibetan art, history, religion, and traditions, serving as an educational and cultural center for locals and tourists.
Located in central Lhasa near the Norbulingka Palace. Visitors can reach it by taxi, local bus, or walking from nearby attractions like Norbulingka or Potala Palace.
Open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Mornings are less crowded, and spring and autumn are ideal for comfortable weather.
Entrance is free for most visitors. Tickets for special exhibitions, if any, can be purchased onsite or occasionally online through official platforms.
Advance booking is generally not required except for special exhibitions or group tours during peak tourist seasons.
2–3 hours are sufficient to explore all main galleries and exhibitions thoroughly.
Guided tours are available, often in Chinese and English. Audio guides may also be provided in multiple languages upon request.
Start from the ground floor exhibitions on Tibetan history, then proceed to art and religious artifacts, and finish with temporary exhibition halls. Take breaks in indoor resting areas as needed.
No night visits or light shows are available. Special cultural tours may be arranged with prior booking for groups.
Mornings and weekdays are least crowded. Peak tourist seasons and public holidays can be busy.
Facilities include restrooms, water fountains, seating areas, and a small museum shop for books and souvenirs. No major dining options inside.
The museum is wheelchair accessible, and suitable for children and elderly visitors. Elevators are available for multi-floor access.
Cash is optional. Mobile payments and cards are accepted at the museum shop and ticket counters for special exhibitions.
Vegetarian options are available at nearby Tibetan and Chinese restaurants. Vegan or halal options are limited and should be confirmed in advance.
The museum shop sells Tibetan handicrafts, books, postcards, and small cultural artifacts.
