3 Things Everyone Does Upon Arrival in Lhasa
Lhasa, known as the "sunlight city", is a must-visit place in your Tibet Culture Tour. Tibet is the last paradise in many explorers' and backpackers' eyes, while in the heart of local Tibetan people, Lhasa is the last paradise for them.
Come to Lhasa, you can experience the essence of Tibetan culture at an altitude of over 3,700 m. (12,139 ft.). Lhasa definitely has fascinating Tibet attractions. The religious, solid atmosphere and long historical relics will make you full of excitement.
What are the things to do in Lhasa? Visiting the famous Tibet attractions like Potala Palace, experiencing the holy pilgrimage and historical relics in Jokhang Temple, and strolling about Barkhor Street are three must things to do in Lhasa and make your visit to Lhasa more complete. Start your unregretful Tibet tour now!
Visit The Potala Palace
The Potala Palace -- one of the most famous Tibet attractions, is called "Pearl On The Roof of The World." It is the landmark of Lhasa and even a symbol of the whole Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. The Potala Palace, perched at an altitude of 3,700 meters, offers more than just a spiritual experience; it is an architectural wonder that has stood the test of time.
Almost every Classic Tibet Tour will include this scenic spot. The Tibetan King Songtsan Gambo initially built the Potala Palace to marry Princess Wencheng in the 7th century of the Tang Dynasty. In this magnificent palace, there are highly distinctive and precious cultural relics and handicrafts, as well as the unique cultural relics of the snow area.
At the foot of Potala Palace, you'll see numerous Buddhists kneeling and making long kowtows here to worship. Kowtowing in front of the Potala Palace is a lifelong dream for people in Tibet. From the Buddhists' forehead but shining eyes, you'll see their simple and pure happiness. Just because of this, the holy and mysterious Potala Palace attracts people from around the world to be here, and many tourists take the chance of visiting Potala Palace as a god's gift and reward.
For travelers, it's important to know that the palace boasts over a thousand rooms, which include the Dalai Lama's living quarters, numerous chapels, and libraries, all filled with intricate murals and beautifully crafted artworks. The palace is divided into two parts – the White Palace, which served as the administrative quarters, and the Red Palace, dedicated to religious study and prayer.
As visitors ascend the various levels, they not only navigate through the palace's rich past but also witness panoramic views of Lhasa that are sure to take one's breath away. The best time to visit is during the early morning or late afternoon when the sunlight bathes the palace in a golden hue, creating a mesmerizing sight against the stark blue sky.
Remember to respect the sanctity of the site. Photography inside the chambers is often restricted, so it's advisable to check the latest guidelines before your visit. Lastly, due to the high altitude, it's recommended to acclimatize before exploring the palace to appreciate its grandeur without the discomfort of altitude sickness.
Visit Jokhang Temple
Jokhang Temple is the first temple in Tibet; it is also one of the three must-see places during your Lhasa City Tour. There is a saying by Tibetan people: First, there is Jokhang temple, then Lhasa City. The pilgrimage order is first the Jokhang temple, then the Potala Palace. From this, you can see the significant statues of Jokhang Temple in Tibetan people's hearts.
Besides the long historical relics in Jokhang Temple, watching the pilgrimage scene in Jokhang Temple is a must and a very moving experience among all the Tibet Attractions.
With the Tibetan people's kneeling and long fawn, you can feel the strong power of faith and think more about life and happiness.
Jokhang Temple is not only the spiritual heart of Lhasa but also a brilliant tapestry of Tibetan culture. For travelers, it offers an intimate glimpse into the daily religious devotion of the Tibetans. The temple's architecture is a stunning fusion of Indian vihara design Tibetan and Nepalese architectural influences. Its golden roof and wood-carved windows are iconic features that any visitor should take a moment to appreciate.
Inside, the temple houses the most venerated statue of Jowo Rinpoche, believed to be an image of the Buddha at age twelve. The air inside is thick with the scent of yak butter candles that faithfully burn as offerings, and the murmur of prayers creates a respectful atmosphere that envelops you.
Outside Barkhor Street, which encircles the temple, is a bustling pilgrimage circuit, which doubles as a market where travelers can find local handicrafts and traditional Tibetan items. Walking this kora alongside the pilgrims offers an immersive experience of Tibetan spirituality and daily life.
When visiting, it's essential to move clockwise around the temple and the Barkhor circuit, respecting the local customs. Dress modestly and be prepared to remove your shoes before entering certain temple areas. The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon, when you can observe the ritual of 'prostration' in a relatively quiet setting. It’s a place where one can reflect on the deeper rhythms of life and spirituality amidst the hum of the faithful.
Stroll About The Barkhor Street
Barkhor Street is located in the center of the ancient city of Lhasa, surrounding the Jokhang temple, and it is the business center of Lhasa and the most wholly reserved street of original Lhasa. So it deserves your visit during your Culture Tibet Tour. It is also the assembly place of Lhasa's religion, economy, culture, handicrafts, and Tibetan culture and customs.
Strolling about Barkhor Street, taking a look at the exquisite handicrafts, and also taking some handicrafts home, feeling the intense atmosphere of local culture and customs, it's a pleasant and relaxing experience. Remember to bargain with the vendors when you buy handicrafts. It is also fun during your tour. Barkhor Street is a mainline for Buddhists' pilgrimage. Many of them are from thousands of miles away.
Barkhor Street is a vibrant artery of Lhasa, teeming with life and a microcosm of the city's soul. For travelers, it's a living museum where every corner offers a story, and every turn presents a feast for the senses. As the nexus of trade, faith, and culture in Lhasa, Barkhor Street is where the essence of Tibetan heritage comes alive. The street is a colorful tapestry of bustling market stalls, devout pilgrims circumambulating the Jokhang Temple, and the aroma of local delicacies wafting through the air.
Here, visitors can find a plethora of Tibetan souvenirs, from hand-painted thangkas to intricately woven textiles and aromatic incense. The act of bargaining is part of the local charm and is an experience, allowing for interaction with the warm-hearted locals.
The Barkhor is more than a shopping destination; it's a place to engage with the spirituality that permeates the city. Observing the devout in their ritual kora, spinning prayer wheels, and chanting mantras offer a poignant reminder of the depth of Tibetan Buddhist practice.
For those interested in photography, Barkhor Street is a dream, offering candid moments against historical facades. It's recommended to visit during the morning or late afternoon to capture the golden light casting shadows on the ancient stones of Lhasa.
While here, indulge in the local cuisine, sample some Tibetan tea, and perhaps even join in the kora, always remembering to walk clockwise out of respect for the local customs. Barkhor Street is not just a place to visit; it's an experience to be absorbed, offering a deeper understanding of the Tibetan way of life.
Visiting the Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, and strolling about Barkhor Street are the three must-do things upon your arrival at Lhasa. Here, you can feel strongly about local culture and customs. These three places are also the most attractive Tibet attractions.