Tibet Lhasa is rightly one of the most dreamt-about and featured cities in China. This is not only because of its remoteness, its high altitude at 11,975 feet means limited accessibility, but also because of its impressive heritage of over a thousand years of cultural and spiritual history that has helped to create the romantic and mysterious Tibetan religion.
Differing from the inland cities and other places in Tibet, Lhasa city is unique with an allure all of its own. In the Tibetan language, Lhasa means the Holy Land or the Buddha Land. It is the center of Tibetan religion’s politics, economy and culture. The city has also been appointed as one of the 24 historical and cultural cities of China. The splendor and grandeur of the Potala Palace in Lhasa remains a world-famous symbol of the enigmatic power of politics and religion in this region.
As the beautiful capital city of Tibet Region (TAR), Lhasa is situated in the South Central part of the region, on the North bank of Lhasa River in a mountain-fringed valley. This ancient sprawling city, settled 1,300 years ago, covers 30,000 square kilometers, with a population of 400,000, of which 87 percent are Tibetans. The urban population is 180,000.
Generally the period from March to October is the best time to take Tibet tours. Since Lhasa is located at such a high altitude it is wise to be prepared before starting your Lhasa China tours. Generally speaking, due to the large temperature differences during any given day in Tibet, warm clothes should be taken to keep away the cold. However, because it also receives a great deal of sunshine, sunglasses, suntan oil, and a sun hat are indispensable items if you’re traveling anywhere in Tibet.
Currently there are three options for travel to Tibet, by plane, by road and by train.
1. Taking the plane is a comfortable and timesaving option, but offers little time for you to acclimatize to the altitude; this may cause sickness.
2. Taking the bus along one of five highways that have been opened-up for tourists’ use. This will take longer but will enable you to see the amazing scenery en route. Furthermore, taking extra time allows for a more gradual acclimatization to the altitude.
3. Taking the train, is a fabulous new option, giving the opportunity to see hitherto unseen mountain scenery. With the operation of Tibet Railway from July 1st, 2006, more and more tourist have swarmed into Tibet via the great Tibet train.
warning: although there is a gradually increasing tourism industry in Lhasa, it is a city with many difficulties yet to be overcome due to its unique location and geography. Please bear in mind that traveling in Lhasa city, as well as in Tibet on the whole, is more challenging than in any other part of China.
Despite this more and more people from every corner of the world are being attracted towards this vibrant city with its mysterious culture. Its unique scenery, long history, exotic culture, mystical religion and spectacular monuments will ensure your stay is unforgettable.
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