https://https://au.trip.com/toplist/tripbest/recommend/zhanang/best-things-to-do/10072451900000
Best Things to Do
Top 50 Best Things to Do near Zhanang [2025]
Show All Photos
Potala Palace
4.8
/5
21818 reviews
8.4
Based on 2,517 reviews
Potala Palace/Sun Island | 50.2 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 501 users12622 positive reviews
Verified user reviews
I visited Lhasa in the winter of 2007 for work, touring the Potala Palace and Jokhang Temple. I revisited in 2024 with my parents.
Key Reminder: Advance ticket booking is required.
My Experience: Seventeen years have passed, and the Potala Palace and Jokhang Temple remain unchanged. Their red and white walls still stand solemnly under the high-altitude sun. What has changed is the surrounding environment, and the people… Of course, I've changed too, transforming from a naive youth to a more mature person… The most worthwhile spots to visit: Besides Potala Palace Square, the Chakpori Hill viewing platform (the location featured on the back of the 50 RMB note) is another must-see.
Transportation: You can stroll through Barkhor Street to get there, or take a taxi directly.
[Potala Palace: A Pilgrimage Guide Amidst the Overlapping Shadows of Time]
First-time visitors should begin their journey like reading an epic poem, looking up from the foot of the mountain. It's recommended to visit at dawn or dusk, when the white walls and golden roofs appear to flow and shift under the light. You'll discover that the palace walls, which you've seen countless times in photographs, are actually formed up close using the traditional Tibetan technique of "splashing white ash," creating irregular textures. During the rainy season, a mixture of milk and honey is added to the paint—this is the secret to its enduring beauty.
The route to the palace holds hidden secrets: first-time visitors should slowly ascend the traditional zigzagging steps, each turn offering a different angle for photography. Upon reaching the ticket office halfway up the mountain, consider pausing at the western platform, where you can see the overlapping shadows of the Jokhang Temple's golden roof and the modern city. To effectively explore the Potala Palace, focus on three key aspects: The Sunlight Hall in the East Hall of the White Palace, once a residence, still displays the exquisite craftsmanship of its window carvings; the sandalwood Avalokiteshvara statue in the Dharma King's Cave of the Red Palace is the oldest symbol of the palace; and the 3,721 kilograms of gold and tens of thousands of jewels in the Fifth Dalai Lama's Stupa Hall, shimmering under the glow of butter lamps, instantly convey the weight of faith.
Returning visitors can become "treasure hunters." Besides the main tour, pay special attention to: ① the "Lamas Debating" wood carving on the south window of the West Sunlight Hall, its details polished smooth by countless hands over twelve years; ② the newly added ochre-red white grass on the exterior walls of the Red Palace, a plant-based wall infused with Tibetan medicine, a testament to traditional wisdom and continuous preservation; ③ after 3 PM, the occasional chanting from the monks' quarters on the east side, as tourists disperse, is the perfect time to experience the palace's atmosphere.
Special Reminders:
① The reservation system is now fully electronic, but a green channel is still available for those over 60 years old.
② Photography is prohibited in most halls inside the Potala Palace, but panoramic city views are permitted on the outdoor platforms.
③ It is recommended to divide your visit into two parts: focus on the architecture and culture in the morning, and enjoy the reflections in Zongjiao Lukang Park at dusk.
For first-time visitors, this is an introductory course to understanding Tibet; for repeat visitors, it's a gentle confrontation with the details of their memories. Those things that remain unchanged over time, and those that have quietly changed, together constitute the Potala Palace's enduring charm.
Visit Tips:
① Walking clockwise around the palace is an unspoken etiquette.
② Speaking softly allows you to hear more stories—such as the sound of prayer flags fluttering in the wind, or the crackling of butter lamp wicks.
③ After leaving the palace, consider strolling along the pilgrimage route behind the mountain with the locals; here you can witness the most vibrant scenes of everyday life.
No matter how many times you visit, take some time to sit quietly in the square in front of the palace and watch the clouds drift across the palace walls. You will find that the Potala Palace is not just a building, but a living entity that is conversing with you every time you gaze at it.
Show All Photos
Namtso
4.5
/5
5289 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 140 users3125 positive reviews
Verified user reviews
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!
Show All Photos
Basomtso
4.6
/5
2687 reviews
7.6
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
2124 positive reviewsRecently viewed by 1,000+ people
Verified user reviews
I recommend driving to Basongcuo and staying overnight, because the next day you can drive to Zhalagou, which is much further inland. I think Zhalagou is just as beautiful as the bumpy Xincuo.
"Cuo" means "lake" in Tibetan. Basongcuo has lush vegetation, much better than other cuo we visited. The water is a unique cyan color that you can't see anywhere else. There are basically all kinds of accommodation, restaurants and supermarkets around, unlike other remote places with limited accommodation and food. I think it is the first choice for Nyingchi attractions.
No.
4
Show All Photos
Yamdrok Yumtso
4.6
/5
2260 reviews
7.3
Based on 242 reviews
68.9 km from downtown
Phone +8608916795995
Address: Yamzho Yumco, Shannan, China
Recommended sightseeing time: 1–3 hours
Highlights:
Sunrise over lake from observatory
Himalayan sacred lake & 155 miles
1404 positive reviewsRecently viewed by 1,000+ people
Verified user reviews
Lhasa - Yamdrok Lake - Lhasa 454 km, Driving time: 10 hours
😀Key attractions: Yamdrok Lake
🌹Tour pace
Yamdrok Lake, also known as Yamdrok Yumtso, is one of the three holy lakes of Tibet. It is famous for its unique appearance and lack of an inlet. It is formed by snowmelt. Yamdrok Lake is very large, with multiple viewpoints and different routes leading to it, each offering different views.
We got up at 2:30 AM to watch the sunrise at Rituo Monastery on Yamdrok Lake. Rituo Monastery is located on the north shore of Yamdrok Lake in Dongla Township, Gongga County. Notably, it stands on an island in the middle of the lake and has a history of over 600 years. You can drive directly to the shore and park in the designated parking area.
The small hills and abandoned ancient castles on the south shore are incredibly photogenic, a hidden gem with almost no visitors. We almost got lost!
The rest of the itinerary involved the usual sightseeing and photo-taking.
I got back to Lhasa around 7 p.m.
Today was quite tiring; I got up too early, but seeing the breathtakingly beautiful, secluded blue waters of Yamdrok Lake made it all worthwhile.
"Jade Lake" in Tibetan means "jade lake," and is considered one of the three sacred lakes, along with Namtso and Manasarovar. With a 250-kilometer shoreline and an elevation of approximately 4,441 meters, the lake's colors shift from azure blue to peacock blue and indigo. Prayer flags flutter in the wind by the lakeside, and the snow-capped peaks in the distance create a tranquil and vast expanse. One glance and you'll be captivated; this is a must-see blue.
No.
5
Show All Photos
Jokhang Temple
4.5
/5
4529 reviews
7.2
Based on 1,233 reviews
Barkhor Street/Jokhang Temple | 49.1 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
2216 positive reviewsRecently viewed by 1,000+ people
Verified user reviews
Standing before the Jokhang Temple, nestled amidst Barkhor Street, the golden dome gleams in the sunlight, the air thick with the fragrance of ghee. The thousand-year-old murals and Buddha statues within the temple are awe-inspiring, and the sight of devotees kneeling in devotion is moving. The guide's detailed explanations leave a profound impression on the sacredness of Tibetan Buddhism. This place is not only an architectural gem, but also a spiritually cleansing sanctuary—a must-visit!
Jokhang Temple, the center of Tibetan Buddhism, attracts a constant stream of pilgrims, leaving visitors filled with awe. The guide patiently recounts the temple and its stories, emphasizing the power of faith. Come here to experience culture, history, and faith.
No.
6
Show All Photos
Nam Co Sheng Xiang Tian Men
4.2
/5
275 reviews
6.6
>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
215 positive reviewsRecently viewed by 1,000+ people
Verified user reviews
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.
7
Show All Photos
Kadinggou Scenic Area
4.3
/5
143 reviews
6.3
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
103 positive reviewsRecently viewed by 1,000+ people
Verified user reviews
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.
8
Karola Glacier
4.3
/5
259 reviews
6.2
>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
Recently viewed by 1,000+ people
Verified user reviews
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.
9
Show All Photos
Tibet Museum
4.5
/5
524 reviews
6.1
Based on 209 reviews
Lobrinka | 50.4 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
Recently viewed by 1,000+ people
Verified user reviews
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.
10
Show All Photos
Norbulingka
4.4
/5
705 reviews
6.1
Based on 278 reviews
Lobrinka | 51.1 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
193 positive reviewsRecently viewed by 1,000+ people
Verified user reviews
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.
1
2
3
About
Payment methods
Our partners
Copyright © 2025 Trip.com Travel Singapore Pte. Ltd. All rights reserved
Site Operator: Trip.com Travel Singapore Pte. Ltd.
Site Operator: Trip.com Travel Singapore Pte. Ltd.