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Best Things to Do
Top 50 Best Things to Do near Shannan [2025]
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Potala Palace
4.8
/5
21828 reviews
8.4
Based on 2,518 reviews
Potala Palace/Sun Island | 78.1 km from downtown
Phone +8608916339615
Address: No. 35, Beijing Middle Road, Chengguan District, Lhasa City
Recommended sightseeing time: 2–4 hours
Highlights:
A Tibetan Buddhist holy site atop Hongshan Mountain
Dalai Lama's winter palace center
Saved by 511 users12581 positive reviews
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A truly breathtaking performance, a must-see every time I visit Tibet. The actresses playing Princess Wencheng have changed many times, but my sincerity remains constant, haha 😃 I always bring a 50 RMB note with me when I go to Tibet. The "Line 1 and Line 2" part is a major drawback; this trip to the Potala Palace was the worst experience I've ever had.
The magnificent building can be seen from many places in Lhasa, and it truly deserves to be called a landmark. Although there are not many places to visit inside, it does not diminish its status in the slightest.
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Namtso
4.5
/5
5331 reviews
7.9
Based on 310 reviews
>100 km from downtown
Phone +8608916113602
Address: Namtso National Park, Dangxiong County, Lhasa City
Recommended sightseeing time: 1–2 days
Highlights:
Snowy mountains & clear nights
Pilgrims & lakeside views
Saved by 142 users3152 positive reviews
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April 19, 2024, Road Trip to Tibet with Parents
Day 11: Lhasa - Namtso Lake - Nagqu (367 km, 5 hours driving time)
Key Attractions: Namtso Lake, one of the three holy lakes of Tibet, is the highest lake in the world, and the clearest and most beautiful teardrop on Earth.
🌹Trip Itinerary:
Depart from the hotel in the morning, first heading to the Namtso scenic area. Along the way, you'll see the Nyainqêntanglha Mountains. If the weather is good, the highest peak you can see is Nyainqêntanglha Peak, at 7162 meters. If you need to get out of the car to view it, be sure to move slowly. I bent over a little too much and immediately experienced altitude sickness, rushing back to the car for oxygen.
After arriving at the scenic area entrance and buying tickets, you can drive over the Nagqu La Pass. After descending the mountain and arriving at the distribution center, you need to take the scenic area shuttle bus to Tashi Peninsula. There are many seagulls here, not afraid of people at all, and they even eat directly from people's hands.
The Namtso Lake I encountered upon getting off the bus was a vibrant, bright blue, with a touch of icy clarity. As the sightseeing bus ventured deeper into the lake, the blue transformed, becoming a deep, rich, and melancholic hue, breathtakingly beautiful.
The scenic area is at a relatively high altitude, so after taking photos, it was time to return to Damxung County as quickly as possible. From Damxung, the journey to Nagqu is a fast one via highway.
This was a very enjoyable trip. Seven years ago, I visited Tibet but missed seeing the beautiful Namtso Lake due to heavy snow. This time, I finally got to unveil the "Heavenly Lake." The most touching thing was that I benefited from a promotion on Ctrip. Thanks to the platform's collaboration with Tibet's cultural and tourism department, I enjoyed a significant discount, practically getting a free trip to Namtso! Thank you, Ctrip, and thank you, Tibet!
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Basomtso
4.6
/5
2711 reviews
7.6
From %1$s
Based on 3 reviews
>100 km from downtown
Phone +8608945412011
Address: Basong Co, Gongbo'gyamda, Nyingchi, China
Recommended sightseeing time: 2–3 hours
Highlights:
Boat tour: Zaxi Island scenery
Lake island & Jeba Village
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The scenery was beautiful, but the weather wasn't great when I went; it was raining and foggy, so the snow-capped mountains weren't visible. Also, the village roads were very narrow, making it difficult to get around by car. Plus, new guesthouses were under construction everywhere, and there were building materials scattered all over the village, making it very messy and a poor tourist experience.
The scenery is stunning, but the management of the scenic area is chaotic. During the National Day holiday, the entrance and exit rules and fee structures kept changing, making entry difficult. The situation at Basongcuo Lake is even more chaotic; the safety of motorbikes and horseback riding is questionable. The boats at Basongcuo Lake have extremely long queues for a single route.
No.
4
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Jokhang Temple
4.5
/5
4533 reviews
7.2
Based on 1,233 reviews
Barkhor Street/Jokhang Temple | 76.6 km from downtown
Phone +8608916336858
Address: Barkhor Street, Chengguan District, Lhasa City
Recommended sightseeing time: 1–2 hours
Highlights:
Pilgrimage route for Tibetan rituals
Three pilgrimage paths around sanctuary
2209 positive reviewsRecently viewed by 1,000+ people
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A guided tour of Jokhang Temple is essential; otherwise, you'll be completely confused. The actual area open to the public is quite small, consisting of just one main hall containing a life-size statue of the 12-year-old Shakyamuni Buddha. When we entered, the monks were gilding it. The guide mentioned that you could also pay 2000 yuan to have the Buddha's robes changed, and removing the old robes would bring blessings. Inside, there's also a mandala similar to the one in the Potala Palace, made of 99% pure gold. This one seems newer, only a few years old, but the gold purity is high; the Potala's is said to be 70% pure. After the tour, you can go up to the second floor where there are chairs to rest and soak up the sun. Perhaps because of the Buddha's radiant light, my heart felt very peaceful at that moment.
First came the Jokhang Temple, then Lhasa! This pilgrimage of faith is well worth all the anticipation! ✨
"A trip to Lhasa without visiting the Jokhang Temple is like not having been to Tibet at all"—this statement is absolutely true! This sacred temple, nestled in the heart of the old city, was built by Songtsen Gampo to welcome Princess Wencheng. Its 1300-year history means every stone slab holds a story. Arriving at 8 am to avoid the crowds, after security checks, stepping into the temple, you're instantly enveloped in the warm glow of butter lamps and the lingering fragrance of incense. The deep chanting of devotees fills the air, instantly calming your soul.
The must-see highlights are truly undeniable! The core of the temple, the life-size statue of the 12-year-old Shakyamuni Buddha, brought to Tibet by Princess Wencheng, is adorned with gold and silver jewels that gleam under the lights. Long lines of devotees prostrate themselves in prayer; their pure devotion is deeply moving. The architecture blends Tibetan, Tang, Nepalese, and Indian styles, with white walls and golden roofs complemented by exquisite ancient murals. The "Princess Wencheng's Journey to Tibet" mural is incredibly detailed; a guided tour is highly recommended to fully understand its cultural significance. The golden roof platform on the third floor is a must-see. With a wide-angle lens, you can simultaneously capture the gilded roof of the Jokhang Temple, the pilgrims circumambulating Barkhor Street, and the Potala Palace in the distance. The light at 3 pm on a sunny day is absolutely stunning!
Important tips: The entire tour must be clockwise. Turn the prayer wheels with your right hand at a steady pace, ideally 3 or 9 rotations (odd numbers are considered auspicious). Dress neatly and appropriately; shorts and tank tops are absolutely forbidden. Remove your hat and sunglasses before entering the temples. Never point directly at Buddha statues or touch the murals. During peak season, make sure to book in advance through the official WeChat account; the queues on-site are comparable to rush hour subway lines. Renting headphones is not essential; many guides' explanations are clear even without headphones, so avoid wasting money. The Jokhang Temple has many butter lamps, making the ground slippery. Walk slowly, respect the worshippers' rituals, and refrain from taking photos or disturbing them.
After leaving the Jokhang Temple, stroll along Barkhor Street with the pilgrims. The Tibetan-style shops and elderly people turning prayer wheels offer a glimpse into the authentic atmosphere of Lhasa. This is more than just a temple; it's a center of faith, and the power it embodies, transcending millennia, can only be truly understood through personal experience. When visiting Lhasa, making the Jokhang Temple a top priority in your itinerary is an unforgettable spiritual experience.
No.
5
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Nam Co Sheng Xiang Tian Men
4.2
/5
277 reviews
6.6
From AU$ 4.27
>100 km from downtown
Phone +8615608995275
Address: Namutso Scenic Area, Bangor County, Nagqu City
Recommended sightseeing time: 0.5–1 day
Highlights:
Padmasambhava's sacred wedding site
Two perfect arcs formed
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The scenery is nice, but the 54-kilometer washboard road from the visitor center to the scenic spot is bumpy and slippery, which damages the car. After collecting the entrance fee, the road should be repaired.
The Holy Elephant Gate is worth a visit.
The last day of the Ali Grand Circuit ends at Namtso.
Namtso truly lives up to its name as a "holy lake." The Ali Grand Circuit concludes here.
P1: Photos of the Holy Elephant Gate scenic spot
P2-3: An eagle soaring over the holy lake (unclear what species it is)
P4-5: The sparkling blue waters
(P1-5 were taken inside the Holy Elephant Gate scenic area)
P6: Seagulls soaring over Namtso
P7: Three Lives Stone (photos can be taken outside the scenic area)
P8: Seagulls at Bamtso
No.
6
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Kadinggou Scenic Area
4.4
/5
144 reviews
6.3
From %1$s
Based on 9 reviews
>100 km from downtown
Phone +8613908941987
Address: Bayi, Nyingchi, Tibet, China
Recommended sightseeing time: 1–2 hours
Highlights:
Explore Tibetan culture & religion
Natural oxygen bar & ion-rich
104 positive reviewsRecently viewed by 1,000+ people
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Kadinggou is a classic canyon landscape, with unique peaks, rocks, and towering ancient trees. A waterfall cascades down a nearly 200-meter drop, creating a majestic spectacle. Natural cliff formations include giant Buddhas, goddesses, Guanyin, Dharma protectors, Tathagata Buddha, lamas chanting, a divine turtle calling to the sky, a sacred eagle offering treasures, and butter lamps. Seeing such a massive waterfall in Tibet is a truly worthwhile experience. Kadinggou is easily accessible via bus No. 7 from Nyingchi City.
"Kading" means "heaven on earth" in Tibetan, but this paradise is truly astonishing. Shortly after entering Nyingchi, I was met with such stunning scenery. This is the Tibetan Plateau!
The canyon's sides are flanked by steep, undulating peaks, dotted with towering pines and giant cypresses. Rattan and bamboo vines cover the ravine floor, small bridges flow under deserted water, and the fragrance of wildflowers wafts through the air. Continuing along the valley floor, a waterfall cascades over 200 meters from the sky. It's truly breathtaking!
No.
7
Karola Glacier
4.3
/5
257 reviews
6.1
>100 km from downtown
Address: Gyangze, Xigaze, Tibet, China
Recommended sightseeing time: 1–2 hours
Highlights:
Hike to glacier's edge
Famous movie filming locations
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The foot of the glacier is 5,020 meters high, so climbing it really requires careful consideration. When the guide asked if we could rent oxygen tanks, I quickly raised my hand. Step by step, even with oxygen, it was difficult to climb. I felt exhausted. Then, a small lake appeared. Some people circled the lake and continued to ascend, so I gave up decisively.
The movie "Red River Valley" was filmed here, making the Karola Glacier quite famous. Many travelers come here to admire the magnificent glacier and marvel at the charm of nature.
Kajola Glacier has become the core natural landscape of the southern Tibetan ring road with its rare accessibility of the highway, the strange landscape of ice Tallinn and the film and television cultural label. However, man-made destruction and climate threats are accelerating its demise, and it is recommended to visit as soon as possible during the best viewing period (spring and autumn) to retain the beauty of the "Tangka hanging on the mountain wall" in awe.
No.
8
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Tibet Museum
4.5
/5
523 reviews
6.1
Based on 209 reviews
Lobrinka | 79.3 km from downtown
Phone +8608916835244
Address: No. 19, Robinka Road, Chengguan District, Lhasa City
Recommended sightseeing time: 1–2 hours
Highlights:
Tibetan architecture & Potala Palace
Free Tibet cultural exhibit visit
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Last September, I traveled to Tibet and made an advance reservation for a visit to the Tibet Museum. On the third day after arriving in Lhasa, I visited the museum, which is located in downtown Lhasa. From the upper terrace, you can overlook the Potala Palace. The museum has a rich collection, many of which are rich in local characteristics, and many of the pieces are not available elsewhere. It's a truly worthwhile museum to visit.
It should be ranked at the top among provincial museums in China. The quantity and quality of exhibits are second to none, and the staff service is also great. With the help of the guide machine, ordinary people can understand Tibetan culture and traditions, religion and modern history from scratch. The Tibetan Museum is definitely a classic landmark that must be visited in Lhasa, suitable for all ages. I love it so much.
No.
9
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Norbulingka
4.4
/5
705 reviews
6.1
Based on 278 reviews
Lobrinka | 80 km from downtown
Phone +8608916822644
Address: Luodui East Road, Chengguan District, Lhasa City
Recommended sightseeing time: 2–3 hours
Highlights:
Exotic flowers at alpine garden
Tibetan & Han architectural fusion
191 positive reviewsRecently viewed by 1,000+ people
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While Norbulingka lacked the stunning blue skies and white clouds, the moist air made mainland tourists feel more relaxed. Our Tibetan guide, Jiazhen, provided a very detailed explanation, which was a welcome change from a cursory visit. There's also a small zoo within the park, which was a delight for the children.
Norbulingka, a National Key Cultural Relic Protection Site, is located in the western suburbs of Lhasa. Originally built in the 1740s during the reign of the Seventh Dalai Lama, it served as the summer retreat for successive Dalai Lamas. It is a typical Tibetan-style garden. After over 200 years of expansion, the garden now covers 360,000 square meters and boasts over 100 plant species. These include not only common flowers and trees in Lhasa, but also exotic plants from the southern and northern foothills of the Himalayas, as well as rare flowers transplanted from inland areas or imported from abroad. It is truly a highland botanical garden. Norbulingka means "treasure garden." Designated a People's Park, it is sometimes jokingly described as "a water tower, two rows of handicraft shops, and several palaces surrounding a zoo." Norbulingka has gates on all four sides, with the main entrance on the east. The most striking pavilion on the facade is Kangsong Silun. Originally a small Han-style wooden pavilion, it was later converted into a theater. A spacious venue was added to the east, specifically for the Dalai Lama to watch performances. Next to it is Xiabudian Lakang, a venue for religious ceremonies. Before liberation, Norbulingka was merely a "summer palace" for the Dalai Lama and a few dignitaries to relax and unwind. After liberation, it underwent renovations and a revamped look, now home to 49 species of trees, including pines and cypresses, 62 varieties of rare flowers and plants, including peonies and Chinese peonies, and 15 species of birds and animals. The park boasts beautifully maintained flower beds and lawns, exquisite pavilions and waterside terraces, a stage, and wooden tables and benches.
No.
10
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Sera Monastery
4.5
/5
484 reviews
6.0
Based on 717 reviews
Sera Monastery | 79.5 km from downtown
Phone +8608916383639
Address: No.1, Sela Road, Lhasa Chengguan District, Lhasa City
Recommended sightseeing time: 3–4 hours
Highlights:
Watch monks' lively debates daily
Watch monks debate at 3pm
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Sera Monastery, officially known as "Sera Mahayana Monastery," is located at the foot of Sera Utse Mountain in the northern suburbs of Lhasa. It is one of the six principal monasteries of the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism, and along with Drepung Monastery and Ganden Monastery, is considered one of the three great monasteries of Lhasa. Construction began in the 17th year of the Yongle reign of the Ming Dynasty by Tsongkhapa's disciple Shakya Yeshe and was completed in 1434. The monastery houses the Tsokchen Hall, three large datsangs, and other buildings, housing tens of thousands of Buddha statues and numerous murals. Its unique Buddhist debates make it a vital venue for understanding Tibetan Buddhist culture.
The Sera Temple was built in 1419 and was presided over by Master Zongkaba's pro-disciple Sakya Yixi. As one of the six main temples of the Gelu school, it carries the mission of rejuvenation of Tibetan Buddhism in the "post-false period". Its complex was built on the top of the Sera Ulu Mountains. Perfectly blending Tibetan-style yulou and Handi Golden Peak style, there are more than 60 buildings such as Cuoqin Palace and Maizakang, of which Cuoqin Palace is supported by 108 giant pillars. The temple is a model of Tibetan wood structure. The temple has preserved more than 2000 square meters of original 15th century murals. And the cinnamon version of "Ganzhuer" given by Emperor Yongle witnessed the cultural exchange between Han and Tibetans. The unique "Kangcun" monk house system is divided by region, forming a hierarchical practice community, with its stone exterior walls and black window frames forming a typical aesthetic of Wei Tibetan architecture.
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