Lhasa

Introduction to Lhasa
Lhasa is the capital city of Tibet Autonomous Region and has long been the center of politics, economy, culture and religion in Tibet. Lhasa is located at the center part of Tibet and is the most suitable places for traveling in Tibet. Lhasa means "holy land" in Tibetan languge, and its status of the "holy land" is evidenced by the various monasteries in the city, Barkhor pilgrim circuit.

Lhasa has become a prime tourism center and an important and a pratical stop for preparations for tours further into the region. Lhasa is the first stop of most travelers. From Lhasa, tourists can travel to Shigatse to appreciate Tashihunpo Monastery, the seat of the Panchen Lama and further to Dingri to explore Mountain Everest-from where you can pass the Zhangmu Port to Nepal; or adventure into the hinterland of Tibet to see more wild and rarely-visited sights in western Tibet such as Ngari and Nagqu.

Lhasa has many a tourism attractions with obvious appeal. The Patala Palace, the symbol of Tibet; Jokhang Monastery, prime seat of the Gelugpa (Yellow) of the Tibetan Buddhism; Barkhor, the oldest circumambulation circuit, Norbulingka, the former Summer Residence of the Dalai Lama are very popular among both foreign and Chinese tourists for either their architectural wonders or religious atomosphere.

Around Lhasa, you will find Lake Namtso, the second largest lake in tibet, which is well-known for its colorful hues as the ray of sunshine cast across the water surface, ang Yangbujin, which is famous for its hot springs.

The history of city dates back to the 7th century AD, when the Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo conquered many tribes, united Tibet, transferred the capital from Yarlung to Lhasa, and established Tubo Regime. The 11th century had seen the Buddhism spreading widely and Lhasa became the center for many eminent and learned monks to preach the religion. In the time of the 7th Dalai Lama, a very famous palace, Norbulingkha, 2 kilometers away from the Potala Palace, was built. From then on, the ancient section of Lhasa city was formed, with Potala Palace as its center, Barkhor Street and Norbulingkha Palace on both sides. Lhasa is one of the most charming cities in the country. The grand Potala, the blue sky, the clear water and the fresh air all add charm to the city. The total population of the city is around 373,000 and the total population in the urban area only is close to 130,000. People of 31 nationalities live in the city and Tibetans take up 87% of the total population. Lhasa is located in the valley of Lhasa River, a branch of Yarlung Tsangpo River. It is 3,658 high in altitude. The city has jurisdiction over 7 counties and one district with an area of 300,000 square kilometers. The total area of urban section is 523 square kilometers. Read more on Tibet History
TOPLhasa Festivals
Tibetan people celebrate many festivals during the course of a year. If possible, try to time your visit to Lasha to coincide one of the city's festivals. All Tibetan festivals are held according to the Tibetan calendar. Major festivals celebrated in and around Lhasa are listed below:

Tibetan New Year

Tibetan New year, known as Losar, is the most important festival in the Tibetan calendar. It is celebrated over a period of two weeks, and generally falls during the months of January and Febuary. It is regulated by the very ancient Tibetan calender. Read more on Tibetan New Year
Time of 2010 Tibetan New Year: 14th, Febuary, 2010

The Great Prayer Festival

It falls on the fourth up to the eleventh days of the first Tibetan month. It is the grandest religious festival in Tibet. Monks of Dreprang Monastery, Sera Monastery and Gaden Monastery will assemble in Jokhang Monastery for the occasion.

The Ox Festival

The Ox Festival takes place from the 15th day of the 8th month in the Tibetan calendar. Celebrations usually last more than 10 days or even one month sometimes. During this festival, people will ask a “heiba”(wizard) to recite scriptures, play a yak horn and kill tens of yaks or over 100 sheep, drinking freely and talking cheerfully.

The Butter Lamp Festival

This grand festival falls on the 15th day of the first Tibetan month, the last day of the Great Prayer Festival. In the daytime, people will go to monasteries to worship Buddhas and pray. At night, a lamp festival will be held on Barkhor Street, where there will be lots of shelves filled with colorful and various images such as gods, figures, birds, animals, flowers and trees.

The Saka Dawa Festival

On this day, in accordance with their conventions, Tibetans will dress themselves in their holiday best and assemble at the Dragon King Pool behind the magnificent Potala Palace to celebrate this grand religious festival.

TOPTibet Entry Permit
Tibet Entry Permit is issued only to tour groups traveling with a Chinese tour operator. You travel agency will represent you to go on the application process. A permit to Tibet usually costs around 200 yuan. You need to apply for the permit at least 10 days in advance. Read more