Tibet

Here's a travel guide to the Potala Palace, designed to help you have a perfect trip: Preparation - Documents: Bring your ID card and any other relevant documents for discounts, such as student ID, senior citizen card, disability certificate, or military ID. - Clothing: Pack warm clothes like down jackets and thick sweaters. Also, bring sun protection such as sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. - Medication: Prepare medication for altitude sickness, such as Rhodiola, as well as common medicines for colds, fevers, and stomach issues. - Other items: Bring some cash for offerings or purchases inside the palace. A lightweight backpack is also recommended. Ticket Booking - Booking time: Book at least 10 days in advance during peak season (May 1 - October 31) and at least 3 days in advance during the off-season (November 1 - April 30 of the following year). You can book through the official "Potala Palace" WeChat official account or the "Potala Palace Ticket Booking System" WeChat mini-program. - Ticket prices: During peak season, tickets are CNY 200 for Entrance 1 and CNY 100 for Entrance 2. During the off-season, tickets are CNY 100 for both entrances. Transportation - External transportation: Fly to Lhasa Gonggar Airport and take the airport bus or a taxi to the city center. Alternatively, take the train; the Qinghai-Tibet Railway offers stunning scenery. - City transportation: Take bus routes 8 (peak line), 13, or 17 to the White Pagoda stop. The Potala Palace is about a 443-meter walk from there. Visiting Guide - Visiting time: Set aside half a day for your visit. Mornings are the best time to visit. - Visiting route: Enter through the South Gate and visit the Snow City first. Then, swipe your ID card near the Qangcang and ascend to the White Palace, where ticket checking begins. Follow the signs and guide's instructions. After visiting all the palaces, descend from the back of the mountain and exit through the North Gate. - Guide services: Rent an audio guide or join a guided tour at the entrance. The cost is typically CNY 50 per person. Nearby Attractions - Norbulingka: The summer palace of successive Dalai Lamas, known for its beautiful environment. - Jokhang Temple: One of the oldest temples in Tibet, housing a life-sized statue of the 12-year-old Buddha. - Barkhor Street: Lhasa's commercial center, where you can experience Tibetan culture and buy souvenirs. Important Notes - Acclimatize to the altitude: Rest for 1-2 days upon arrival in Lhasa, avoid strenuous activity, and drink plenty of water. - Respect local customs: Remove your hat when entering temples, avoid loud conversations, refrain from touching artifacts and religious objects, and turn prayer wheels and drums clockwise. - Photography rules: Photography is prohibited in most areas inside the Potala Palace. In designated areas where photography is allowed, do not use flash.