Lhasa, capital of Tibet, is the center of Tibetan cultural and religious life. Most tourists enter Tibet via Lhasa. Outside the city is Tibet's wealth of natural wonders and holy sites, from Lake Namtso to Mt. Everest, to Mount Kailash.
"Lhasa" is Tibetan for "place of the gods", and is revered as such. There are many sites and religious sites in the city proper and its suburbs.
Best attractions:
1. The Potala Palace, the Dalai Lamas' Winter Palace, houses countless treasures including eight holy stupas (tombs).
2. Barkhor Street is a place for you to go souvenir hunting, and experience the sacred "one step one bow" way to religion.
3. Sera Monastery offers a rare chance for you to watch the monks' debate, held 3:30pm every day except Sunday.
4. Mount Everest, Earth's highest mountain, is the holy grail of mountaineers and sacred among the Tibetans and Nepalese.
Unique experiences:
1. Visit a Tibetan family to experience how people of the roof of the world live.
2. Attending a Tibetan festival will give you the best insight into Tibetan culture and beliefs — feel the grandness and reverence.
3. Venture outside Lhasa to take in Tibet’s pristine landscapes — the holy lakes and sacred peaks are breathtaking!
Suggested stay: 4–8 days
