Hotels in Lhasa

Lhasa: Tibet's Sacred Capital at 3,650 Metres

Lhasa sits on the Lhasa River valley at 3,650 metres above sea level, making it one of the highest cities on Earth. The Potala Palace, built in the 7th century and expanded by the Fifth Dalai Lama in 1645, rises 117 metres above Marpo Ri Hill and anchors the city's skyline. The Barkhor Circuit — a pilgrimage kora circling Jokhang Temple — brings together Tibetan Buddhist devotees and travellers in the oldest quarter of the city, where butter lamps burn through the night.

Where to Stay in Lhasa

Most hotels cluster around the Barkhor area in the old Tibetan quarter and along Beijing East Road, which links the historic core to the newer Chinese-built districts. Guesthouses near the Barkhor offer immediate access to the circuit; mid-range and larger hotels along Beijing East Road provide more amenities. The Norbulingka Palace summer residence lies roughly 3 km west of the Jokhang, useful for orienting neighbourhood choices.

Practical Tips

• Permit requirement: Foreign visitors need a Tibet Travel Permit in addition to a Chinese visa; arrange through a registered tour agency before arrival.
• Altitude acclimatisation: Allow 2–3 days of rest on arrival; ascending too quickly increases the risk of altitude sickness.
• Getting there: Lhasa Gonggar Airport sits 65 km south of the city; the Qinghai–Tibet Railway connects Lhasa to Xining (about 21 hours) and Beijing.
• Currency: Chinese yuan (CNY) is used; ATMs accepting foreign cards are available near Beijing East Road.