Cheap Flights To Lhasa

The capital of the Tibet Autonomous Region of China, Lhasa has been a favourite with adventurous travellers since the late 19th century. The city is a unique blend of Tibetan and Han Chinese culture. The western part of the city is similar to other busy Chinese cities with modern administrative centres, while visitors are likely to encounter traditionally clothed Tibetans in the eastern districts close to the Jokhang Temple.

The city sits right in the centre of the Tibetan Plateau in a valley adjacent to the Lhasa River. Its name means 'Land of the Gods' and it's a centre of religion, philosophy and spirituality. Visitors can see striking landmarks like the Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple and Norbulingka Summer Palace or learn about the region's history from a Chinese point of view at the Tibet Museum. The city is also a great base from which to explore the magical monasteries that cling to the slopes of the Himalayas and it's easy to reach by air from most parts of the world.

Fans of beautiful buildings will love Lhasa. The city's architecture is a distinctive blend Chinese and Indian with a dash of Buddhism and the colourful windows and ornate details are stunning. It's also a great choice for hikers and climbers, history enthusiasts and foodies - the momos are incredible!

Things To Do

• Discover Buddhism in Tibet

Lhasa has been the administrative and religious capital of Tibet since the mid-1600s. Today, visitors can explore various monasteries or see important Tibetan Buddhist sites like the Potala Palace. This magnificent structure was home to the Dalai Lama until 1959 when the 14th Dalai Lama fled to neighbouring India. Be sure to perform a kora, an anti-clockwise contemplative march with prayer wheel, at the Jokhang Temple.

• A Must for History Fans

Spend the day at the Tibet Museum next to the Potala Palace. As well as art and architectural exhibits you'll learn more about this mysterious region's history and culture. Visitors can even create their own traditional Thangka painting. Visit the Norbulingka Palace, a 374 room 16th-century building that was the summer home of the Dalai Lama and boasts the largest man-made garden in Tibet.

• A Cultural Adventure

Shop in the city's famous night market for traditional Tibetan clothing and accessories. Try delicious momos, Tibetan dumplings filled with meat or vegetables, served with hot sauce and salty local tea to a backdrop of haunting local music. Alternatively, visit the Langma Opera Hall for a more professional display of exotic Tibetan music, dance and poetry.

Calendar Of Events

• Tibetan New Year: The most important annual event in Lhasa each February

• Sagwa Dawa Festival: Each June, locals visit the region's Buddhist temples and monasteries to pray. It's an excellent opportunity to take a closer look at Everest Base Camp and other notable Himalayan peaks while passes are open for summer.

• Garma Ri Gi: The famous bathing festival takes place every August. Locals and visitors head to the banks of the river.