Lhasa, the capital of Tibet, is a dream destination for travelers seeking a mix of spirituality, history, and breathtaking landscapes. Summer (June to August) is one of the best times for a Lhasa tour, with warm weather, clear skies, and vibrant festivals. Whether you’re exploring ancient monasteries or trekking through scenic valleys, this guide covers what to see, where to travel, and how to travel in Lhasa for an unforgettable Tibet travel experience.
Why Visit Lhasa in Summer?
Perfect Weather
– Temperature: 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F) – warm days and cool nights.
– Sunshine: Over 8 hours of sunlight daily, ideal for sightseeing.
– Rainfall: Occasional showers (July-August), but rarely disruptive.
Festivals & Cultural Events
– Shoton Festival (August): Featuring giant Thangka unveilings and Tibetan opera.
– Saga Dawa (May-June): A sacred month with pilgrimages to holy sites.
Fewer Altitude Sickness Risks
– Warmer temperatures help with acclimatization compared to winter.
Must-See Attractions in Lhasa
Potala Palace – The Icon of Tibet
– Why Visit? UNESCO World Heritage Site, former home of the Dalai Lama.
– Highlights: Red and White Palaces, sacred stupas, panoramic city views.
– Tip: Book tickets in advance (limited daily entries).
Jokhang Temple – Tibet’s Holiest Shrine
– Why Visit? Spiritual heart of Tibetan Buddhism.
– Highlights: The Jowo Rinpoche statue, pilgrim prostrations, and Barkhor Street nearby.
Barkhor Street – Lhasa’s Cultural Hub
– Why Visit? A bustling market filled with prayer wheels, handicrafts, and local life.
– Best For: Buying souvenirs, tasting Tibetan tea, people-watching.
D. Sera Monastery – Famous for Monk Debates
– Why Visit? Witness monks engage in lively philosophical debates (3 PM daily).
– Bonus: Beautiful mountain backdrop.
Drepung Monastery – Once the World’s Largest
– Why Visit? Historic monastic university with stunning architecture.
– Don’t Miss: The Shoton Festival’s giant Thangka display here.
Norbulingka – The Dalai Lama’s Summer Palace
– Why Visit? Lush gardens, traditional Tibetan architecture, and peaceful retreats.
Best Day Trips from Lhasa
Yamdrok Lake (One of Tibet’s Three Sacred Lakes)
– Distance: 110 km (2.5-hour drive).
– Why Go? Turquoise waters, snow-capped peaks, and spiritual significance.
Ganden Monastery (A Scenic Mountain Retreat)
– Distance: 50 km (1.5-hour drive).
– Why Go? Spectacular Kora (pilgrimage circuit) with valley views.
Namtso Lake (Highest Saltwater Lake in the World)
– Distance: 240 km (5-hour drive).
– Why Go? Stargazing, nomad encounters, and surreal landscapes.
How to Travel to Lhasa
Getting There
By Air
– Lhasa Gonggar Airport (LXA): Flights from Chengdu, Beijing, Kathmandu.
– Tip: Book early—summer is peak season.
By Train (Qinghai-Tibet Railway – A Scenic Journey!)
– From Xining (20-24 hrs) or Chengdu (36-40 hrs)
– Why Take It? Gradual altitude acclimatization, stunning Himalayan views.
Permits & Regulations
– Tibet Travel Permit: Required for all foreign travelers (arranged via a tour agency).
– Other Permits: Needed for areas outside Lhasa (e.g., Everest Base Camp).
Best Ways to Explore Lhasa
– Guided Tours: Recommended for first-timers (permits, transport, and cultural insights included).
– Private Driver + Guide: Flexible for customized Lhasa travel itineraries.
– Public Buses & Taxis: Cheap but less convenient for non-Mandarin speakers.
Where to Stay in Lhasa
– St. Regis Lhasa Resort – 5-star with oxygen-enriched rooms.
– The Shangri-La Lhasa – Tibetan-inspired luxury near the Potala Palace.
Mid-Range Options
– House of Shambhala – Boutique hotel with traditional décor.
– Kyichu Hotel – Great location near Barkhor Street.
Budget & Hostels
– Yak Hotel – Backpacker-friendly, social atmosphere.
– Lhasa Gang-Gyen Hotel – Affordable and clean.
What to Eat in Lhasa
Must-Try Tibetan Dishes
– Butter Tea – Salty, warming, and a staple.
– Tsampa – Roasted barley flour mixed with tea.
– Momos – Tibetan dumplings (try yak meat filling!).
– Thukpa – Hearty noodle soup.
Best Restaurants
– Snowland Restaurant – Great for momos and authentic Tibetan meals.
– Tashi 1 Restaurant – Rooftop dining with Potala Palace views.
Essential Travel Tips for Lhasa in Summer
✔ Acclimatize Slowly – Spend 2-3 days in Lhasa before heading to higher altitudes.
✔ Dress in Layers – Mornings and evenings can be chilly.
✔ Respect Local Customs – No photos inside temples without permission.
✔ Stay Hydrated – Combat altitude sickness with lots of water.
✔ Bring Sun Protection – High UV levels at 3,650m elevation.
5-Day Lhasa Summer Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival & Acclimatization
– Explore Barkhor Street.
– Visit Jokhang Temple.
– Relax with butter tea at a local café.
Day 2: Potala Palace & Norbulingka
– Morning: Potala Palace tour.
– Afternoon: Norbulingka’s gardens.
Day 3: Monasteries & Culture
– Sera Monastery (monk debates).
– Drepung Monastery.
Day 4: Day Trip to Yamdrok Lake
– Scenic drive, lakeside picnic, photography.
Day 5: Departure or Namtso Lake Extension
Conclusion: Lhasa – A Summer Adventure Like No Other
A Lhasa tour in summer offers the perfect blend of cultural immersion, pleasant weather, and unforgettable landscapes. From the golden rooftops of the Potala Palace to the serene shores of Yamdrok Lake, Tibet travel is a journey into the heart of the Himalayas.
Ready to explore Lhasa? Start planning your trip today!