2020 Lhasa Travel Guide: Lhasa Free Travel Guide, Lhasa Attractions Guide, Lhasa Trendy Hotel Recommendations

A few days ago, chatting with a friend about Tibet, she told me she was looking forward to an encounter with snow-capped mountains and the plateau, and even more so to sleeping here. I have to say, Tibet truly carries the hopes of so many people.

So to fulfill a small wish of my friend, we embarked on this trip.

Nowadays, getting to Tibet is very convenient whether by plane or train. Of course, self-driving is also an option, allowing you to enjoy many unique Tibetan landscapes along the way. For this trip, we chose the train, relishing the sensation of riding a green train and quietly soaking in nature.

The Potala Palace needs little introduction. Known as the 'Pearl of the World's Roof,' it is the landmark of Lhasa and the entire Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. Those who have visited know it houses countless treasures and the stupa-tombs of successive Dalai Lamas. In front of the Potala Palace is Potala Palace Square. The visitor route is relatively fixed; following the signs generally keeps you on track.

Norbulingka, nicknamed Lhasa's Summer Palace, means 'Treasure Park' in Tibetan. During the Shoton Festival, there are abundant performances, so you might plan your visit accordingly.

Barkhor Street (also known as Bajiao Street) is an entire old-style neighborhood steeped in Tibetan life, and it's the busiest spot in Lhasa in terms of daily foot traffic. The area is packed with shops selling countless items that are good quality and affordable. Almost every visitor to Lhasa wanders through Barkhor Street. But you'll find that it's even more filled with Tibetan pilgrims on their spiritual journey.

This time, we stayed at the long-time social media favorite, Puncuo Kangsang View Hotel. Here, the best thing is being able to see the beauty of the Potala Palace without leaving your room.

Hotel: Puncuo Kangsang View Hotel (Lhasa Potala Palace Branch)

Address: No. 31 Duosenge North Road, Chengguan District, Lhasa (near Potala Palace and Jokhang Temple) [Barkhor Street/Jokhang Temple and vicinity Potala Palace/Sun Island and vicinity]

It takes only ten minutes to walk to the Potala Palace. In such a view hotel, once inside, you'll truly forget you're a tourist and feel like part of the scenery.

Check-in was swift, and we went straight up to the room. I must say the room's amenities were very thoughtful, with an oxygen machine and humidifier. The hotel staff were gentle and attentive, even providing complimentary fruit. When a friend suffered from altitude sickness and headache, we called the front desk to ask if they had glucose, and immediately someone brought hot water mixed with glucose.

The bed linens were all pure white with minimal decoration, offering great comfort. The mattress was a high-end imported one, and that softness easily lulls you into a sound sleep. The curtains were automatic; as soon as they opened, we saw blue sky, clouds, and the Potala Palace, fulfilling my friend's dream of sleeping within this scenery.

Makye Ame Restaurant & Bar:

This place is near the Jokhang Temple, with KFC and Pizza Hut next door. From a small entrance, you go up to the second-floor restaurant. There aren't many tables, so you might have to wait during peak times.

The 'Tibetan-style Grilled Natural Mushrooms' are delicious, as is the 'Tibetan Sweet Milk Tea' served in a large pot with a lovely taste. Also on the menu are Himalayan Fried Chicken Wings—fried chicken wings are always good, really.

Jixiang Shengxue Tibetan Restaurant:

This is a Tibetan restaurant I discovered through a friend. It's a restaurant operated right out of someone's home. While eating here, you can also learn a bit about Tibetan family life. The service is great, and they're very enthusiastic when taking your order.

I highly recommend the 'Kangba Man,' a specially seasoned yak meat dish that's crispy on the outside and tender inside, especially tasty dipped in sauce.

Puncuo Kangsang Music & Fashion View Restaurant:

This is the restaurant at the hotel I mentioned earlier. My friend and I really enjoyed afternoon tea here, especially by the window, where you can savor food while enjoying the view—it's indescribably pleasant. Online, there's also mention of live band performances.

However, if you want a window seat, remember to reserve in advance. I recommend the 'Tibetan Yak Yogurt,' which looks and tastes great. For those who like spicy food, try the 'Boiling Fish,' which is fresh, tender, smooth, and full of Sichuan peppercorn and chili flavors.

1. Essential Daily Items:

Sunglasses, sun hat, sunscreen, moisturizer, lip balm, long-sleeved tops, sweaters;

2. Recommended Medicines:

Cold medicine, gastrointestinal medicine, and some pain relievers for fever and aches. If you're not confident about altitude sickness, it's advisable to bring some anti-altitude sickness medication: Rhodiola rosea (take at least 10 days in advance), Bufferin (to control altitude-induced headaches), American ginseng lozenges.

3. Precautions:

1. Photography and filming are prohibited inside the Potala Palace, as is smoking and loud noise. Walk and use stairs carefully and slowly inside.

2. The temperature difference between day and night in Tibet is significant, so bring some warm clothing.

3. The UV rays in Tibet are very strong, so don't underestimate them, especially in Lhasa, which is at high altitude and known as the 'Sunlight City.' Remember to carry sunscreen, and it's best to bring sunglasses and a sun hat. Otherwise, after a day out, your skin might not take it well, and your eyes will feel uncomfortable.

Table of Contents: 1. [Sightseeing] 2. [Accommodation] 3. [Food] 4. [Pre-trip Preparation] Travel Information Hotel Index Guide Index Flight Index Website Navigation Travel Index Cruise Index Corporate Travel Index Join Cooperation Distribution Alliance Friendly Links Corporate Gift Card Procurement Insurance Agency Agent Cooperation Hotel Alliance Destination and Scenic Spot Cooperation More Join Cooperation About Ctrip About Ctrip Ctrip Hot Topics Contact Us We're Hiring User Agreement Privacy Policy Business License Security Center Ctrip Content Center Intellectual Property Trip.com Group Algorithm Disclosure