Destination
The 3,700 m capital of Tibet — Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, and the highest-altitude big-sky pilgrimage circuit.
Best time
Apr–Jun, Sep–Oct
Recommended
4 days (including 1 day acclimatization)
Tags
culture · high-altitude
Updated
7/11/2026
Lhasa is the spiritual capital of Tibetan Buddhism. Foreign visitors need a Tibet Travel Permit + a licensed guide arranged through a China-based agency. Fly in via Chengdu, Xining, or take the world's highest railway from Xining to Lhasa (~22 hr).
Tibet Travel Permit must be arranged 20+ days ahead through a licensed agency (they'll handle Lhasa hotels + guide + driver as a package). Altitude: land in Lhasa (3,700 m) and rest 24 hours before ANY exertion. Bring Diamox if your doctor approves.
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Potala Palace
布达拉宫
西藏拉萨市城关区北京中路35号
1-hour visit only; entry time slot fixed at booking.
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Jokhang Temple
大昭寺
西藏拉萨市城关区八廓街
Walk the Barkhor circuit clockwise.
