Overview
Lhasa lies on the north bank of the Lhasa River, a tributary of the Yarlung Tsangpo, with abundant sunshine and crisp air. The old town radiates from the Jokhang Temple and Barkhor Street, where pilgrims circle year-round; the Potala Palace on the Red Hill is the city's spiritual landmark.
Highlights
The Potala Palace and Jokhang Temple are the cultural core, while Barkhor Street blends daily life with devotion; Norbulingka was the former summer palace. The three great monasteries — Ganden, Drepung and Sera — lie around the city.
Nearby & nature
Within reach are the sacred Namtso Lake, Yamdrok Lake, Tashilhunpo Monastery in Shigatse, and Nyingchi's Basum Lake and Yarlung Tsangpo Grand Canyon.
Food & experiences
Try sweet tea, butter tea, Tibetan noodles, yak meat and barley dishes; sweet-tea houses are windows into local life. Travel slowly and mind altitude and temperature swings.
Travel tips
Allow 1-2 days to acclimatize; 3-5 days cover the city's culture, 7-10 days reach Shigatse, Nyingchi or the holy lakes. Strong UV — bring sunglasses, sunscreen and warm layers.
