Things to do in Tibet

Search attractions or local attractions & tours

Search

Explore top experiences

Top 10 attractions in Tibet

View all Attractions

No. 1 of Best Things to Do in Tibet

Potala Palace

8.2

4.7/5

22.5k reviews

The Potala Palace is the symbol of Xizang and a sacred place in the hearts of all pilgrims! "Potala" is a Sanskrit word, also translated as "Putuo", which originally refers to the residence of Guanyin Bodhisattva. When you come here, you can not only view the large number of historical relics collected in the palace, appreciate the wonderful architectural art of the Tibetan people, but also have a baptism of the soul in that holy atmosphere. The origin of the Potala Palace According to historical records: In the 1930s of the seventh century AD, the 33rd Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo moved the capital to Lhasa and began to build the Potala Palace. Since then, major religious and political ceremonies have been held here, and it has become the ruling center of Xizang integration of politics and religion. The White Palace and the Red Palace The Potala Palace has a distinct Tibetan style and is majestic. It is the existing complete palace-style building complex in Xizang and is known as one of the world's top ten earth buildings. Its main buildings are divided into two parts: the White Palace and the Red Palace. The White Palace is named after its white exterior wall. It is the place where the lamas live and conduct political activities. Because the sun shines all day long, it is called the East and West Sunlight Palaces. The Red Palace is located at the top center of the Potala Palace. Its outer wall is red and it consists of many stupas and various Buddhist temples. Historical relics The Potala Palace houses and preserves a large number of historical relics, including stupas, statues, murals, thangkas, scriptures and books, as well as gold books, jade books, gold seals granted by the emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties, which show the historical relationship between the Xizang local government and the central government, as well as gold and silver wares, jade wares, porcelain, enamel and handicrafts. Among them, the eight stupas from the fifth generation are eye-catching. They are all magnificent and decorated with a dazzling array of gems, which can be called a palace of art.

China · Lhasa



No. 2 of Best Things to Do in Tibet

Namtso

7.9

4.5/5

6k reviews

Namtso is located on the northern Xizang plateau north of Lhasa. "Namtso" means "heavenly lake" in Tibetan and is called "Tengri Sea" in Mongolian, both sharing the same meaning. Along with Yamdrok Yumtso and Mapam Yumtso, it is known as one of the three holy lakes of Xizang. With a surface elevation of over 4700 m, it stretches more than 70 km from east to west and covers nearly 2000 km², making it the second largest saltwater lake in Xizang. Its southern shore is backed by the continuous Nyenchen Tanglha snow-capped mountains, whose peaks reflect clearly in the sapphire-blue lake water on calm sunny days. According to local legends, these mountains and Namtso have been companions for millennia, adding a touch of tenderness to the landscape. Lake tour Namtso means "Tengri Sea" in Mongolian and is said to be the sacred site of the Buddhist deity Chakrasamvara, making it a renowned pilgrimage destination in Tibetan Buddhism. During the Year of the Sheep, it is believed that buddhas, bodhisattvas, and protector deities gather at Namtso to hold grand religious ceremonies. If devotees circle the lake and chant scriptures once during this time, it is considered more meritorious than doing so 100,000 times in ordinary years, bringing immeasurable blessings. Thus, during the Year of the Sheep, monastic and lay devotees undertake long journeys to circumambulate the lake. Many pilgrims visit Namtso during the Saga Dawa festival on the 15th day of the fourth month in the Tibetan calendar. 1-day tour Many travel agencies in Lhasa offer 1-day tour packages to Namtso. The typical itinerary involves departing in the morning, arriving after 3-4 hours, spending 2-3 hours exploring, and then returning the same way. If you don't want a private charter, this is the only option available and also the conventional way to visit Namtso. For those who prefer to avoid the crowds, you can arrange a private charter or find a shared transfer in Lhasa city. While the route remains the same, the advantage is greater itinerary flexibility, along with the option to stay overnight by the lakeshore. Leaving Damxung County and crossing the Nagen La Pass at an elevation of 5190 m, one can glimpse the vast sapphire-blue waters in the distance. By the lakeside stand two towering boulders side by side, known as the welcoming stones of Namtso or the husband-and-wife stones. Legend has it they are the gatekeepers of Namtso. It is said they represent the goddess who governs the wealth of northern Xizang's grasslands. Merchants would pray here for her blessing before business trips to ensure prosperity, hence these stones are also called the wealth deity stones. A number of prefabricated houses have been built near Tashi Peninsula, including restaurants and inns. This is where Namtso offers food and stay by the lake. If you come to Namtso by private charter, you can spend a night here. You can enjoy the beautiful sunset at dusk, wake up early to greet the sunrise on Tashi Peninsula, or gaze at the sky by Namtso's lake at midnight, where you can even discern the outline of the Milky Way. The lake area features high altitude, strong winds, and intense UV radiation. Even in midsummer, temperatures can drop to around 10°C in the morning and evening, so packing a thick coat, sunglasses, and sunscreen is advisable. Slow down when moving through mountain passes or along the lakeshore to allow your body time to adjust. Please show respect when observing pilgrims circling the lake or photographing mani stones and prayer flags, and avoid stepping on the mani piles. Most travelers make a round-trip from Lhasa in a single day, but we recommend setting aside a full day and bringing your own snacks and hot water. From June to September, the lakeside grasslands are lush with vegetation and wildflowers, offering exceptionally rich scenery. In winter, the frozen lake and vast landscape create a unique atmosphere, but pay close attention to weather conditions and your physical state before traveling.

China · Damxung



Namtso National Park

7.9

4.4/5

525 reviews

Namtso National Park is located between Damxung County of Lhasa and Baingoin County of Nagqu, situated on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau known as the "roof of the world." The attraction includes Namtso, the main peak of Nyenchen Tanglha, bird islands on the lake, rock carvings, Yangbajing, and other attractions. The core attraction of the park, Namtso, is one of the three holy lakes and also one of the world's highest-altitude saltwater lakes. Under sunlight, Namtso's lake surface appears sapphire blue, resembling jade fallen from the sky, earning it the title "heavenly lake" and making it a renowned site in Tibetan Buddhism. The lake contains three larger islands, which are rarely disturbed by the outside world and host diverse bird populations, hence called bird islands. To the south of Namtso lies the perpetually snow-capped Nyenchen Tanglha Mountains, while its northern and western sides feature plateau hills and expansive lakeshores. In the folk songs and legends of local herders and hunters, Nyenchen Tanglha and Namtso are not only striking sacred mountains and lakes but also inseparable lovers and spouses. Nyenchen Tanglha appears more majestic against the backdrop of Namtso, while Namtso becomes even more enchanting with the reflection of Nyenchen Tanglha.

China · Damxung



No. 1 of Fall Viewing Attractions in Tibet

Basomtso

7.6

4.6/5

3.2k reviews

Basomtso is located in Gongbo'gyamda County, Nyingchi. It is a famous sacred lake of the Nyingma school of Tibetan Buddhism and holds a high religious status. The lake water is emerald green and gentle, surrounded by lush green mountains, and the scenery is truly beautiful. The Cuozong Gongba Temple on the island in the center of the lake has a long history and features unique sculptures and architecture. Tourism here is fairly well developed, making it one of Xizang's more established attractions. After entering the attraction, visitors need to take a sightseeing bus to get around, and the route usually stops at three points: beside the island in the middle of the lake, the viewing platform, and Jieba Village. In addition, the attraction offers yachts for lake cruises, which require an extra fee. The attraction allows visitors to reach the island via a wooden boardwalk built over the lake. The Cuozong Gongba Temple on the island was built in the late Tang Dynasty, and the rocks on the island are all carved into unique animal figures and Buddha statues, which is truly remarkable. The viewing platform is not far from the island in the center of the lake; from this slightly elevated angle, you can overlook the lake water and the small island—this is where the attraction's classic photo spot is located. Jieba Village is a quiet village by the lake. Since many tour groups do not stop here, it has instead preserved the tranquility and leisure of this place. The village has a bit of the flavor of a Swiss town and is quite lovely.

China · Gongbo'gyamda



No. 4 of Best Things to Do in Tibet

Yarlung Zangbo Grand Canyon

7.5

4.6/5

5k reviews

The Yarlung Zangbo Grand Canyon is a horseshoe-shaped grand canyon surrounding Namcha Barwa, and it is also a grand canyon of the world. The scenery within the canyon is diverse, where you can see Namcha Barwa, the Nyang River of the Yarlung Zangbo, ancient villages, and more. It was shortlisted in the "Chinese National Geography" China Canyon selection, attracting numerous visitors to come and admire it. Parts of the Yarlung Zangbo Grand Canyon are currently open to visitors. The Yarlung Zangbo River makes a sharp turn southward as it flows past Namcha Barwa, forming the magnificent Great Bend. Within the canyon, glaciers, sheer cliffs, primeval forests, and the surging river intertwine, and the vertical climate zones are remarkably complete, with vegetation distributed in sequence from alpine ice and snow to subtropical forests. Tibetan villages such as Zhibai Village and Suosong Village are also scattered throughout the canyon. Suosong Village sits halfway up the mountainside on the north bank of the river; when peach blossoms bloom in spring, they set off the snow-capped mountains and river waters, making it a classic viewing spot within the canyon.

China · Mainling



No. 3 of Fall Viewing Attractions in Tibet

Yamdrok Yumtso

7.5

4.6/5

2.5k reviews

Yamdrok Yumtso means "swan pool" in Tibetan and is also called Yamdrok Yumtso Lake, locally referred to as "Yang Lake" for short. Along with Namtso and Mapam Yumtso, it is known as one of the three holy lakes of Xizang. Located on the south bank of the Yarlung Zangbo River in Nagarze County, Shannan City, the lake surface sits at an elevation of approx. 4400 m, making it a relatively large inland lake on the northern foothills of the Himalayas. Yamdrok Yumtso has numerous branching inlets and winding tributaries, resembling coral branches spreading among the mountains when viewed from above, hence its Tibetan name "upper coral lake." The lake water displays alternating layers of blue and green under different lighting conditions. The lake is dotted with over a dozen small islands and is home to plateau fish species such as the fine-scaled fish, Xizang schizothoracin, and plateau naked carp. It is also an important waterbird habitat in southern Xizang, where migratory birds like swans, bar-headed geese, yellow ducks, and ospreys gather in flocks along the lakeshore and on the central islands to overwinter each winter. Yamdrok Yumtso is more impressive when viewed from afar than up close. After crossing the Gambala Pass at an altitude of about 5,000 meters, the view suddenly opens up, and the winding lake surface can be seen like a ribbon below—a classic angle to admire Yamdrok Yumtso. Descending the winding mountain road for about half an hour leads to the lakeshore, with multiple viewing platforms along the way for stopping to take photos and appreciate the changing colors of the lake and the interplay of mountains and water from different heights.

China · Nagarze County



No. 1 of Global Traveller-Picked Attractions in Lhasa

Jokhang Temple

7.1

4.5/5

4.6k reviews

Jokhang Temple, known as "Jokhang" in Tibetan and also called "Tsulag Khang," is the ultimate destination for Tibetan Buddhist devotees. In their hearts, Jokhang Temple is as sacred as the Potala Palace. Both geographically and spiritually, Jokhang Temple is the true holy site and center of Tibetan Buddhism, holding an exceptionally lofty and pure status in Tibetan Buddhist history. Built in the mid-7th century by Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo to enshrine the 8-year-old life-sized statue of Sakyamuni brought by his Nepalese princess Bhrikuti from her hometown of Kathmandu, Jokhang Temple gained further prominence in 1409 when Tsongkhapa, the founder of the Gelug school, propagated Buddhist teachings and held the Great Prayer Festival here, solidifying its pivotal role in Tibetan Buddhist history. In the 8th century, the 12-year-old life-sized statue of Sakyamuni brought by Princess Wencheng of the Tang Dynasty from Chang'an was enshrined in Jokhang Temple, becoming its most treasured relic and a must-see for travelers and pilgrims alike. In addition, the temple houses nearly 1 km-long Tibetan-style murals depicting "Princess Wencheng's journey to Tibet" and "The construction of Jokhang Temple," as well as two embroidered thangkas of guardian deities from the Ming Dynasty, which are rare artistic treasures. Lhasa has three circumambulation routes—inner, middle, and outer—all centered around Jokhang Temple. The inner route, called "Nangkhor," circles the Jokhang Hall within the temple. The middle route, called "Barkhor," goes around the outer perimeter of Jokhang Temple. The outer route, called "Lingkhor," encompasses the Potala Palace, Chakpori Hill, Ramoche Temple, and Jokhang Temple. Attraction guide: Entering Jokhang Temple through the main gate leads to a courtyard. On the east side of the courtyard are rows of butter lamps, which remain lit year-round as devotees replenish the butter daily. Behind the butter lamps is the main entrance to Jokhang Temple's central hall. To the left of the entrance is a statue of Padmasambhava, founder of the Nyingma school, and to the right is Jampa Buddha, also known as Maitreya or the Future Buddha. The right wall features murals depicting the temple's founding, including scenes of the Potala Palace in the 7th century and the lake-filling construction of Jokhang Temple. Proceeding clockwise, visitors encounter the chapel dedicated to Tsongkhapa, founder of the Gelug school, and his eight disciples. Continuing right, passing the Yaksha and Naga chapels, and beyond hundreds of butter lamps lies the renowned "Jokhang" Hall—the heart and essence of the temple. At its center is the main assembly hall, where monks chant and meditate, surrounded by smaller chapels. The unmissable highlight is the central chapel housing the 12-year-old life-sized golden statue of Sakyamuni, brought by Princess Wencheng. This sacred center of Jokhang Temple is the ultimate destination for devout pilgrims. Stairs beside the courtyard lead to the second and third floors. The second floor features the Dharmaraja Chapel, with statues of King Songtsen Gampo, Princess Wencheng, and Princess Bhrikuti, as well as the Palden Lhamo Chapel dedicated to the protective deity. The spacious terrace on the second floor offers a panoramic view of the Potala Palace, making it an ideal photo spot. The third floor's golden roofs are another attraction, though this level is rarely open to the public. If fortunate enough to ascend, visitors are awestruck by the four resplendent golden pinnacles.

China · Lhasa



Selected for Best Things to Do in Tibet

Mount Namcha Barwa

7

4.1/5

1.5k reviews

Namcha Barwa Peak is located in Nyingchi. Atop the mountains in the scenic spot are glaciers and thick misty clouds. The vegetation here grows thick and green, creating a beautiful natural environment. There are many places to take in the grandeur of Namcha Barwa Peak. From the Yarlung Tsangpo Grand Canyon Scenic Area Scenic Platform, visitors can take a sightseeing bus to the Yarlung Tsangpo Grand Canyon Scenic Area. The vista here is broad and open. From Sejila Mountain Pass, it is possible to see all the way to the rich scenery of Lunang Forest at the foot of the snowy mountains. Facing towards the snowy mountains, the traditional Susong Village can be seen. Every spring, the peach blossoms and snowy peaks as seen through the flowers make for an even more amazing sight.

China · Mainling



Princess Wencheng Theater

7

4.2/5

118 reviews

Princess Wencheng Theater is located in Cijuelin Valley on the south bank of Lhasa River. It reconstructs the epic of marriage 1,300 years ago with an open-air stage at an altitude of more than 3,000 meters. This high-altitude live-action theater, backed by the mountains projected by the Potala Palace, uses the natural mountain as a curtain, and uses the starry sky, snow-capped peaks and Tibetan watchtowers to interpret the magnificent chapter of the integration of Han and Tibetan civilizations. The core of the theater is the 90-minute large-scale live-action drama "Princess Wencheng". On the stage of more than 20,000 square meters, more than a dozen Tibetan and Han actors recreate the legend of the princess carrying the life-size statue of Sakyamuni at the age of 12 into Tibet with scenes such as galloping horses, moving Buddhist temples, and pouring waterfalls. Scenes such as the collapse of the Winter Palace, the snowy wedding, and the Tibetan wedding, combined with laser-projected thangkas and real herds of cattle and sheep, draw the audience into the torrent of history. The theater is surrounded by rich supporting facilities, and the Princess Wencheng Tibetan Cultural Park is full of special cultural and creative products. Every time there is a performance, there will be a grand garden party, which is very lively.

China · Lhasa



Mt Qomolangma Base Camp

7

4.7/5

758 reviews

Mt Qomolangma Base Camp was established to protectMount EverestA protected zone established in the core area, ideal for viewing and photographyMount EverestOne of the prime locations, also serving as the starting point for mountaineering teams ascending from the Chinese side.Mount Everestthe base camp at that time. Every year from April–June is the climbing season, when Mt Qomolangma Base Camp is at its busiest and also the best time to captureMount EverestWhen the flag cloud appears. Transportation to Mt Qomolangma Base Camp is inconvenient - vehicles can only go as far as the tent camp near Rongbuk Monastery. Visitors usually take a private charter from Shigatse or Lhasa, with the round trip taking approx. 4 days. Some visitors stay overnight at the tent camp, which is affordable but has basic facilities. Armed police are stationed at Mt Qomolangma Base Camp, where there's a monument that serves as a popular photo spot. You can also buy postcards and get them stamped at the tent post office, including special stamps commemorating the 2008 Olympic torch ascent.Mount EverestThe postmark here is quite meaningful as a souvenir. Please note that since this area is located near the border, you'll need to apply for a border pass in advance before your trip. Also, some sections of the road are in poor condition.

China · Tingri







Traveller favourites curated for you

No. 3 of Night Attractions in Tibet

Barkhor Street

View all Attractions

Nyingchi: Individual travel photo shoot portrait couple proposal appointment shoot marriage certificate follow-up birthday photography/translation English

5.0/5

1 review

Mainling

Instant confirmationEnglish

FromPKR 55,877.12

View all Travel photography

7D6N • Lhasa + Nyingchi + Laigu Glacier + Potala Palace + Jokhang Temple

Explore Lhasa, Nyingchi, and Bomi in one journey. Visit the Potala Palace and Jokhang Temple, admire Namcha Barwa, and discover Laigu Glacier and Basum Tso. | Stay at 5-diamond hotels in Lhasa and Nyingchi, and at a handpicked premium oxygen-enriched hotel in Ranwu. Enjoy peaceful surroundings and ample oxygen. | Travel with genuine Tibetan experts and enjoy experienced local drivers and guides, oxygen-assisted itineraries, fully customizable tours, and seamless end-to-end holiday management.

EnglishGuaranteed departureTour guide includedDeposit acceptedArr. & dep. transfers incl.Multiple car types availablePrivate Tours

From PKR 440,058

View More Private Tours in Tibet

8D7N • Lhasa + Mt Qomolangma Base Camp + Potala Palace + Yamdrok Yumtso

4.9/5

7 reviews

Enjoy a private car and guide as you explore iconic sites like Potala Palace, Yamdrok Lake, Everest Base Camp, and Namtso, experiencing the true essence of Tibet. | Rest comfortably in carefully selected oxygen-supplied hotels in Lhasa, Shigatse, and Everest Base Camp, ensuring a safe and restful sleep at high altitudes. | Travel with authentic Tibetan experts, veteran local drivers, and guides on this 8-day journey featuring oxygen support, customizable tours, and seamless end-to-end trip planning.

EnglishGuaranteed departureTour guide includedDeposit acceptedArr. & dep. transfers incl.Excellent accommodationMultiple car types availablePrivate Tours

From PKR 519,831

View More Private Tours in Tibet





More things to do

Private Tours in Tibet

View More Private Tours in Tibet

9D8N • Deep Tibet Circuit: Lhasa Potala Palace + Mysterious Nyingchi + 2 Major Glaciers + 3 Sacred Lakes + Ancient Monasteries + Princess Wencheng Live Performance

EnglishGuaranteed departureTour guide includedDeposit acceptedArr. & dep. transfers incl.Private Tours

Visit the Potala Palace and Jokhang Temple, then embark on an oxygen-rich Nyingchi tour featuring Basumtso Lake, Lulang Forest, and a distant view of Namcha Barwa Peak. You will also explore the 10,000-year Laigu Glacier. · We are licensed to process your Tibet Permit. A senior local guide will accompany you throughout this no-shopping tour. Medical oxygen, glucose, and a private vehicle with a dedicated guide are all provided. · Two featured meals are included. Your vehicle comes equipped with medical oxygen, portable oxygen, water, prayer flags, and fruits, along with an experienced Tibetan driver.

From PKR 574,236

7D6N • Lhasa + Nyingchi + Yamdrok Yumtso + Basomtso + Potala Palace

EnglishGuaranteed departureTour guide includedDeposit acceptedArr. & dep. transfers incl.Multiple car types availablePrivate Tours

Enjoy an exclusive itinerary with private car and guide throughout, immersing yourself in Tibet's history and sacred plateau lakes to encounter the true essence of Tibet. · Stay at a handpicked oxygen-enriched hotel in downtown Lhasa—quiet, oxygen-rich, and restful at high altitude. In your free time, stroll the City of Sunlight and enjoy Lhasa's easy pace. · Travel with experienced Tibetan guides and local drivers, and enjoy oxygen-supported journeys, customizable tours, and end-to-end holiday planning.

From PKR 411,736

9D8N • Lhasa + Nyingchi + Potala Palace + Mt Qomolangma Base Camp + Yamdrok Yumtso + Namtso

EnglishGuaranteed departureTour guide includedDeposit acceptedArr. & dep. transfers incl.Multiple car types availablePrivate Tours

Embark on a 9-day journey from Lhasa to Everest Base Camp. Discover Basum Tso, Yamdrok Lake, Namtso, and the Potala Palace on this ultimate Tibetan adventure. · Stay at handpicked premium oxygen-enriched hotels in Lhasa, Shigatse, and near Everest Base Camp, ensuring a quiet, comfortable, and restful stay. · Travel with genuine Tibetan experts and enjoy experienced local drivers and guides, oxygen-assisted itineraries, fully customizable tours, and seamless end-to-end holiday management.

From PKR 572,731

8D7N • Tibet China: Lhasa Tourism + Nyingchi Scenery + Shigatse Tibetan Culture Exploration + Holy Lake Scenery + Princess Wencheng Performance

EnglishGuaranteed departureTour guide includedDeposit acceptedArr. & dep. transfers incl.Excellent accommodationPrivate Tours

Visit the Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, and the Princess Wencheng show. In Nyingchi, explore Basongcuo, Lulang Forest, and views of Namcha Barwa. Continue to Shigatse and Yamdrok Lake to experience Tibetan culture. · We are licensed to process your Tibet Permit. A senior local guide will accompany you throughout this no-shopping tour. Medical oxygen, glucose, and a private vehicle with a dedicated guide are all provided. · Two featured meals are included. Your vehicle comes equipped with medical oxygen, portable oxygen, water, prayer flags, and fruits, along with an experienced Tibetan driver.

From PKR 466,432

9D8N • Lhasa + Nyingchi + Bome + Yamdrok Yumtso + Namtso + Potala Palace

EnglishGuaranteed departureTour guide includedDeposit acceptedArr. & dep. transfers incl.Excellent accommodationMultiple car types availablePrivate Tours

Enjoy an exclusive 9-day journey from Nyingchi to Lhasa. Hike in Gangpicea Forest, admire Laigu Glacier's blue ice, and explore Namtso, Yamdrok Lake, and the Potala Palace. · Stay at 5-diamond hotels in Lhasa, Nyingchi, and Lulang, featuring oxygen-enriched rooms for a quiet, comfortable, and restorative high-altitude stay. · Travel with experienced Tibetan guides and local drivers, and enjoy oxygen-supported journeys, customizable tours, and end-to-end holiday planning.

From PKR 614,852