Hostels in LHASA, TIBET

City Lhasa in Tibet China- The Roof of the World

Lhasa is the administrative capital of the Tibet Autonomous Region in China and is nestled at base of Mount Gephel. One of the highest capitals in the world, it is the holiest place in Tibet true to its name, which means "place of the gods".

Accommodation Options
Lhasa has over fifty star hotels, ranging from the three to four-stars; majority of them located in Lhasa City.  There are low cost hostel accommodation options as well in Lhasa city. Most of the hostels are located near the Potala Palace, Jokhang and Ramoche Monastery. Conveniently close to shopping areas and supermarkets, these are quite popular among budget travellers. The rooms range from standard double rooms to dormitories with attached shower rooms and 24-hour hot shower. Other services include laundry, breakfast, baggage storage, travel information and pick up from train station. Some of the hostels also provide internet and email service, printing and international call for an affordable price.

History
In the mid 7th century, Songtsän Gampo became the leader of the Tibetan Empire, who rose to power and conquered the whole Tibetan region. With the fall of the monarchy in the 9th century and the accession of the 5th Dalai Lama, Lhasa ceased to be the administrative hub of the region though it became increasingly significant as the religious centre. In 1952, the Chinese invaded Tibet, resulting in the migration of many locals including the 14th Dalai Lama who fled from the Potala Palace into exile in India in 1959.

Popular Places
Lhasa is home to many palaces, temples and monasteries. Listed in the UN heritage list, The Potala Palace is a treasure house of articles of Tibetan history, religion, culture and arts. Located on the Marpo Ri Hill, it is the greatest monument in Tibet. Soe of the other popular places include Norbulingka, constructed as the summer palace for the Dalai Lama, the Sera monastery and the Jokhang Temple among others.

Getting Around
Taxis are the most convenient option to travel around the city. Make sure to negotiate the rates before hand. The travel guide of Lhasa also features buses and mini buses, which can be boarded by those having travel permits. Trains are also popular among tourists who do not miss out the opportunity to travel in the highest railway line in the world. The trains are well equipped with Oxygen respirators and sign boards in both Chinese and Tibetan languages.

Places of Entertainment
Lhasa has many excellent dining places and bars, which are well known for their exotic flavours and special brews. The traditional song and dance show of Langma opera is another attraction, which is staged at the Xinshiji Langma Hall. Shopping is another must do in Tibet. There are many shops that sell ethnic clothes, handicrafts, Tibetan knife, prayer wheels, carpets, boots and tapestries among others.

Currency
Chinese Yuan (also known as Renminbi (rmb) is the official currency of Lhasa. Foreign currencies are not allowed. Currency exchange services are available at Lhasa Airport and star hotels apart from all branches of Bank of China and other large banks. The exchange rates are published in news papers.

Lhasa group accommodation | Cheap hostels & budget hotels