Lhasa Highlights Tour – top things to do and see in Lhasa

Despite rampant modernization and expansion, Lhasa (the Place of the Gods) is still a city of wonders. Your first view of the red and and white Potala Palace soaring above the holy city will raise the goosebumps, while the whitewashed old Tibetan quarter to the east continues to preserve the flavor of traditional Tibetan life. Here are the top highlights of Lhasa that you must never miss out or book one of our pre-arranged Lhasa tour itineraries.

1. Follow monks, mendicants and fellow pilgrims around the fascinating medieval pilgrim circuit, the Barkhor.

the Barkhor Street

2. Join the lines of awed pilgrims around the glowing shrines of the Jokhang, Tibet’s holiest sanctum.

the Jokhang Temple

3. Ogle the murals and stupas of the Potala, the impressive but spiritless citadel of the Dalai Lamas.

the Potala Palace

4. Take in a prayer meeting or some monk-debating at Sera or Drepung, Tibet’s great monastic cities.

The debate of Sera Monastery

5. Take a day trip out to Ganden Monastery and test your sin on its fascinating kora (pilgrim path).

Gandan Monastery

6. Explore the architecture, teashops and craft workshops of Lhasa’s backstreets on our old town walking tour.

the Old Town of Lhasa

7. Track down one of Lhasa’s delightful off-the-beaten-track temples, such as the Meru Nyingba Monastery or Tengye Ling.

the Meru Nyingba Monastery