Top five attractions in Lhasa recommended by Tibetan tour guide

Lhasa, the capital of Tibet, is the economic, cultural and religious center of Tibet. There are dozens of tourist attractions in Lhasa, but most tourists only stay at Lhasa for three or four days. The following is a list of the top five attractions in Lhasa recommended by Tibetan tour guide is a great reference for you to make a wonderful Lhasa tour plan. It is very easy to visit these tourist sites in Lhasa as you only need to apply for Tibet entry permit. The policy on Tibet travel permit 2013 makes it easy for all travelers to get the Tibet permit.  

 

1. Potala Palace 

 

As a world’s famous tourist site in Tibet and one UNESCO World Heritage site, the Potala is always the first must-see attraction for most travelers travelling to Tibet. Originally built by King Songtsen Gampo in the seventh century, Potala Palace is located on the Red Hill of Lhasa. The awe-inspiring Potala Palace, perched high above much of Lhasa, is the landmark of the city. The Potala Palace includes various chambers for worshipping Buddha and chambers housing the eight stupa that contain the remains of fifth through thirteenth Dalai Lama. The Potala Palace also has treasured a large number of sculptures, murals, scripture and other valuable cultural relics.

 

2. Jokhang Temple

 

As the spiritual center of Tibet, travelers have no reason to refuse the Jokhang Temple when travel to Tibet. The Jokhang was also inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list as part of the historical assemblage of the Potala Palace. With a history of more than 1,300 years, the Jokhang is the fine product of Han, Tibetan and Nepalese architecture techniques. Visitors will be treated to the sight of various exotic and sacred sculptures. Jokhang Temple also houses many invaluable cultural relics. 

 

3. Barkhor   

 

When travelling to Lhasa, do not miss this ancient street in the traditional city of Lhasa. The Barkhor Street circling the Jokhang Temple is a place where Tibetan culture, economy, religion and arts assemble. Tourists can see Tibetan pilgrims walking or prostrating along the street clockwise every day into deep night. It is also a famous commercial street consisting of more than 120 handicrafts shops and more than 200 stalls. After visiting the Jokhang temple or during your free time in Tibet, having a walk along this street will make your Tibet tour more wonderful.

 

4. Namtso Lake

 

Known as heavenly lake in Tibetan, the Namtso Lake ranks to one of the top must-see attractions in Tibet due to its breathtakingly beautiful sights. With the lake surface assuming sky blue, the lake and the sky seem to be one and undivided, which may make visitors feel themselves in a fairy land if they have a stroll by the lake.

 

5. Sera Monastery

 

Located about two miles north of Lhasa, and occupying an area of about one-third of a square kilometer, Sera Monastery is one of the three great monasteries in Lhasa of the Geluk school of Tibetan Buddhism. The monastery was named Sera which means wild rose in the Tibetan language, because the hill behind it was covered with wild roses in bloom when it was built.

 

The highlight of the Sera Monastery is the Buddhist Scripture Debate held at its courtyard by monks in this monastery. As a part of their study, lamas must participate in debates to further their comprehension and proceed to more advanced levels of study. The debating traditions in the Sera Monastery are unique among the three famous monasteries in Lhasa. In a battle of words, they supplement their efforts by using a variety of gestures including clapping their hands, pushing their partners for an answer, or plucking their prayer beads to win the virtue of the Buddha.

 

If you travel to Tibet, do not miss the exciting and interesting debate. It is usually held around 3:00pm. For a clear view of this unique event, an early arrival is recommended.