Discover Lhasa: A Selection of the Best City Tours
Executive Summary
Lhasa, the capital of Tibet, is a city with a rich history and culture. It is home to many important Buddhist monasteries and temples, as well as other historical sites. There are many different city tours available that can help visitors experience the best that Lhasa has to offer.
This article provides an overview of some of the best city tours in Lhasa. It includes information on the different types of tours available, the prices, and what to expect on each tour.
Introduction
Lhasa is a fascinating city with a lot to offer visitors. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or religion, there’s something for everyone in Lhasa. One of the best ways to experience the city is to take a guided tour. There are many different tour operators in Lhasa, so it’s important to research and find one that suits your interests and budget. This article will provide you with all the information you need to choose the perfect city tour for your trip to Lhasa.
Potala Palace
The Potala Palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most iconic landmarks in Tibet. It was built in the 17th century and served as the winter residence of the Dalai Lama. The palace is a massive complex with over 1,000 rooms. It is divided into two main sections: the White Palace and the Red Palace. The White Palace was used for political and administrative purposes, while the Red Palace was used for religious purposes.
Today, the Potala Palace is a museum that is open to the public. Visitors can explore the palace’s many rooms and learn about its history. Some of the highlights of the palace include the Audience Hall, the Throne Room, and the Jokhang Temple.
Important Pieces of Information
- Duration: The tour typically takes 2-3 hours.
- Price: The entrance fee to the Potala Palace is 200 yuan (about $30). The audio guide is an additional 40 yuan (about $6).
- What to Expect: The tour includes a visit to the White Palace, the Red Palace, and the Jokhang Temple. Visitors will also learn about the history of the palace and its significance to the Tibetan people.
Jokhang Temple
The Jokhang Temple is one of the most sacred temples in Tibet. It was built in the 7th century and is believed to house a statue of the young Buddha. The temple is a popular pilgrimage destination for Buddhists from all over the world. The Jokhang Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the most important cultural landmarks in Tibet. The temple is a massive complex with many different buildings and courtyards. Visitors can explore the temple’s many rooms and learn about its history. Some of the highlights of the temple include the Golden Roof, the Jokhang Chapel, and the Bodhisattva Chapel.
Important Pieces of Information
- Duration: The tour typically takes 1-2 hours.
- Price: The entrance fee to the Jokhang Temple is 80 yuan (about $12). The audio guide is an additional 20 yuan (about $3).
- What to Expect: The tour includes a visit to the Jokhang Chapel, the Bodhisattva Chapel, and the Golden Roof. Visitors will also learn about the history of the temple and its significance to the Tibetan people.
Barkhor Street
Barkhor Street is a bustling street that surrounds the Jokhang Temple. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Lhasa. The street is lined with shops that sell a variety of goods, including souvenirs, Tibetan handicrafts, and traditional Tibetan clothing. Visitors can also find many restaurants and cafes on Barkhor Street. Barkhor Street is a great place to experience the vibrant culture of Lhasa. Visitors can wander the street, shop for souvenirs, and people-watch.
Important Pieces of Information
- Duration: Visitors can spend as much or as little time as they want on Barkhor Street.
- Price: There is no entrance fee to Barkhor Street. However, visitors will need to pay for any goods or services they purchase.
- What to Expect: Visitors can expect to find a lively and vibrant street with many shops, restaurants, and cafes.
Norbulingka
Norbulingka is a large park that is located on the outskirts of Lhasa. It was built in the 18th century and served as the summer residence of the Dalai Lama. The park is home to many beautiful gardens, palaces, and temples. Norbulingka is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. Visitors can relax in the gardens, visit the palaces and temples, and enjoy the fresh air.
Important Pieces of Information
- Duration: Visitors can spend as much or as little time as they want at Norbulingka.
- Price: The entrance fee to Norbulingka is 60 yuan (about $9). The audio guide is an additional 20 yuan (about $3).
- What to Expect: Visitors can expect to find a beautiful park with many gardens, palaces, and temples.
Sera Monastery
Sera Monastery is one of the largest monasteries in Tibet. It was founded in the 15th century and is home to over 1,000 monks. The monastery is a popular tourist destination and is known for its beautiful architecture and its lively debates. Visitors can explore the monastery’s many buildings and courtyards and learn about its history. Some of the highlights of the monastery include the Assembly Hall, the Tsongkhapa Chapel, and the Sera Je Lhakhang.
Important Pieces of Information
- Duration: The tour typically takes 2-3 hours.
- Price: The entrance fee to Sera Monastery is 50 yuan (about $7). The audio guide is an additional 20 yuan (about $3).
- What to Expect: The tour includes a visit to the Assembly Hall, the Tsongkhapa Chapel, and the Sera Je Lhakhang. Visitors will also learn about the history of the monastery and its significance to the Tibetan people.
Conclusion
Lhasa is a city with a rich history and culture. There are many different city tours available that can help visitors experience the best that Lhasa has to offer. From visiting the Potala Palace to exploring Barkhor Street, there is something for everyone in Lhasa.