Lhasa, the capital of the Tibet Autonomous Region, lies on the Lhasa River's north bank in a valley of the Himalayas. Rising atop Red Mountain at an altitude of 3,700m, the red-and-white Potala Palace once served as the winter home of the Dalai Lama. The palace’s rooms, numbering around 1,000, include the Dalai Lama’s living quarters, as well as murals, chapels and tombs.

Top Attractions:

1. Potala Palace: Explore the iconic Potala Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and former residence of the Dalai Lamas. Marvel at its majestic architecture, intricate artwork, and priceless treasures, including statues, murals, and religious artifacts.
2. Jokhang Temple: Visit Jokhang Temple, the holiest temple in Tibetan Buddhism and another UNESCO World Heritage Site. Admire its ancient architecture, golden roofs, and sacred shrines, and join pilgrims as they prostrate and offer prayers.
3. Barkhor Street: Wander through Barkhor Street, a bustling market and pilgrimage circuit surrounding Jokhang Temple. Explore narrow alleys lined with traditional Tibetan shops, stalls selling handicrafts, and local snacks.
4. Sera Monastery: Discover Sera Monastery, one of the great three Gelug university monasteries of Tibet. Attend the monks' debate sessions, where they engage in lively philosophical debates, and explore the monastery's chapels, courtyards, and murals.
5. Drepung Monastery: Visit Drepung Monastery, once the largest monastery in the world and an important center of Tibetan Buddhism. Explore its vast complex of temples, colleges, and monk residences, and enjoy panoramic views of Lhasa Valley.
6. Norbulingka Palace: Explore Norbulingka Palace, the summer residence of the Dalai Lamas and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wander through its expansive gardens, pavilions, and palaces, and learn about Tibetan royal life.
7. Tibet Museum: Learn about Tibetan history, culture, and art at the Tibet Museum. Explore exhibits showcasing artifacts, religious relics, thangka paintings, and archaeological discoveries dating back thousands of years.

Things to Do:

1. Kora (Circumambulation): Join pilgrims in performing kora around sacred sites such as Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, and Barkhor Street. Experience the spiritual atmosphere and witness traditional Tibetan devotional practices.
2. Attend Prayer Ceremonies: Attend prayer ceremonies and rituals at Jokhang Temple and other monasteries in Lhasa. Experience the chanting of mantras, spinning of prayer wheels, and lighting of butter lamps in reverence to the Buddha.
3. Try Tibetan Cuisine: Sample traditional Tibetan cuisine at local restaurants and teahouses in Lhasa. Taste dishes such as momos (Tibetan dumplings), thukpa (noodle soup), and yak butter tea, and savor the flavors of Tibetan gastronomy.
4. Photography: Capture the timeless beauty of Lhasa's historic landmarks, vibrant street scenes, and colorful religious rituals through photography. From ancient monasteries to bustling markets, there are endless opportunities for captivating photos.
5. Shopping for Souvenirs: Browse for souvenirs and handicrafts at Barkhor Street and local markets in Lhasa. Shop for Tibetan rugs, thangka paintings, prayer flags, and other traditional Tibetan crafts to take home as mementos.
6. Visit Local Villages: Explore traditional Tibetan villages on the outskirts of Lhasa to experience rural life and interact with local residents. Learn about traditional agriculture, crafts, and customs, and enjoy the hospitality of Tibetan families.
7. Relax at Tea Houses: Unwind at traditional Tibetan teahouses scattered throughout Lhasa. Enjoy sipping yak butter tea or sweet tea while chatting with locals, watching traditional performances, or simply soaking in the atmosphere.