Lhasa Travel Guide | Turning Days into Poetry in the City of Sunshine

"In Lhasa, every step is bathed in sunlight and faith, where even time slows down—waiting for the prayer flags to flutter in the wind, for pilgrims to complete their kora, and for the last wisp of steam to rise from the butter tea in a sweet tea house."

[Must-Visit Spots: Explore the Core at the Right Pace]

1. Potala Palace: More than just a "check-in landmark," it is a microcosm of a thousand years of Tibetan history. It is recommended to book tickets one day in advance through the "Potala Palace Ticket Booking System" mini-program. During your visit, follow a guide to hear the stories of the Red Palace and White Palace. After 3 PM, head to the square where the sunlight casts a soft glow on the golden roof, creating a natural photo filter.

2. Jokhang Temple: The butter lamps in front of the 12-year-old life-sized statue of Sakyamuni have been glowing for a thousand years. Remember to remove your hat and sunglasses before entering the temple, and follow the pilgrims clockwise for the kora. Outside the temple, don't miss the "Tang-Tubo Alliance Monument." Touching the inscriptions on the stone feels like connecting with the Han-Tibetan friendship from a thousand years ago.

3. Barkhor Street: Don't just shop around; find a corner sweet tea house and sit for half an hour. Watch elderly Tibetans in traditional attire spinning prayer wheels, listen to vendors selling "Tibetan incense and Thangka," and occasionally see young monks running by with a smile. This is the "lively essence" of Barkhor Street. If you have time, rent a set of Tibetan attire (50-100 RMB/hour) and take photos in front of the Makye Ame restaurant for the perfect vibe.

4. Sera Monastery Debates: Every afternoon from 3 to 5 PM, red-robed monks engage in "intense debates" in the debate courtyard—clapping, flicking their sleeves, and debating loudly. Even if you don't understand Tibetan, their focus is infectious. Remember to stay quiet and avoid using flash photography.

5. Namtso Lake & Shengxiang Tianmen: About a 3-hour drive from Lhasa, it is the closest "sacred lake" to the city. Joining a small group day tour is recommended. At sunset, stand under Shengxiang Tianmen and watch the lake reflect the snow-capped peaks of the Nyenchen Tanglha Mountains, feeling the "purity" in every breath.

[Accommodation Guide: Rest Well to Travel Well]

If you want to stay close to the main attractions, prioritize the Jokhang Temple/Barkhor Street area:

• Recommended: "Lhasa Spring and Autumn Oxygen-Rich Hotel": Each room is equipped with a medical-grade oxygen supply system (quiet even when running at night).
• Highlighted Services: The breakfast buffet includes Tibetan-style steamed buns and butter tea. In the evening, they organize "fireside chats" where travelers share stories about their trips to Ngari and Mount Everest.

[Tips: Don't Overlook These Details]

✅ Essential Documents: ID card (required for all attractions) and border pass (if visiting Mount Everest or Ngari, apply in advance at your local police station for free).
✅ Altitude Sickness: Avoid bathing or strenuous activities during the first two days in Lhasa. Bring glucose oral solution or Rhodiola (start taking it one day in advance). If headaches become unbearable, most hotels provide oxygen services.
✅ Clothing Advice: Lhasa has a large temperature difference between day and night (25°C during the day, possibly 10°C at night). Dress in "onion layers" (base layer + sweater + windproof jacket) and bring a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses to protect against UV rays.
✅ Respect Customs: Do not touch monks' heads or step on thresholds when entering temples (step over them instead). Always walk clockwise during kora and avoid photographing pilgrims without their consent.