Lhasa Old Town Historic District

拉萨老城区 · Historic District · Lhasa

The protected quarter of Tibetan stone houses, small chapels and sweet-tea houses that radiates from the Barkhor circuit around Jokhang Temple. Pilgrims, traders and prayer wheels fill the lanes all day; allow a couple of unhurried hours.

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TypeHistoric District
Altitude3,650 m (11,975 ft)
Visit lengthAbout 2.5 hours
Opening hoursOpen all day; shops 09:30-21:00

Overview

Quick facts about Lhasa Old Town Historic District

Quick answer

The protected quarter of Tibetan stone houses, small chapels and sweet-tea houses that radiates from the Barkhor circuit around Jokhang Temple. Pilgrims, traders and prayer wheels fill the lanes all day; allow a couple of unhurried hours.

TypeHistoric District
Altitude3,650 m (11,975 ft)
Visit lengthAbout 2.5 hours
Opening hoursOpen all day; shops 09:30-21:00
Good to knowThe protected quarter of Tibetan stone houses, small chapels and tea houses radiating from the Barkhor circuit, best explored slowly on foot between pilgrims

How to visit

Practical advice from our Lhasa team.

  • Walk slowly. Steep stairs at altitude are harder — come on your second or third day, not the day you arrive.
  • Taxi drop-off: Any of the Barkhor circuit entrances
  • Bus: City buses to the Jokhang Temple stops; the district radiates from the Barkhor

Hotels near Lhasa Old Town Historic District

Sorted by walking or driving distance when we have it; otherwise hotels we use in the same city.

Best time to visit

Average daily high and low in °C, and monthly rain in mm. Winter is cold and dry, with fewer visitors and lower hotel prices.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec24°-9°130 mm
Daily highDaily lowRain
BestGoodCold or limited access

Nearby

Questions

Lhasa Old Town Historic District is at about 3,650 m (11,975 ft) above sea level. Plan a slow first day and drink plenty of water.
The better months are usually May, June, September, October.
Yes. All foreign visitors need a Tibet Travel Permit, and some areas need extra permits. We file them for you with every booking.
About 2.5 hours

Visiting Lhasa?

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