Top 10 Best Things to Do near Lhasa
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Top 10 Best Things to Do near Lhasa

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Trip.Best is a collection of travel rankings that takes into account the travel choices and genuine preferences of hundres of millions of Trip.com users. It is updated monthly based on real data.
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  • Ganbala Mountain
    󰺂5.0
    Gongga70.5 km from Lhasa
    Highlights:
    󱨜Scenic overlook for photos
    󱓊Overlook Yamdrok Lake's beauty
    󱨠38% positive reviews
    4.7/5
    绍兴职业技术学院润园绍兴职业技术学院润园

    Gangbala Mountain: Touch the Center of the World and Encounter the Sky-Mirror of Yamdrok Lake If you crave a journey that transcends the scenery, Gangbala Mountain offers the answer—not only is it the "King of Mountains," but it is also recognized by Hinduism, Tibetan Buddhism, Bon, and Jainism as the "Center of the World." It's more than just a geographical peak; it's a dome of faith and spirit. The moment you stand at the pass, you'll understand: the meaning of mountains is not just about climbing, but about returning. I. Why is Gangbala Mountain worth visiting? 1. Divine Land, Holy Temple of Many Religions Gangbala Mountain is revered by many religions as the axis of the universe, and is said to be the abode of the gods. Circumambulations, prayer flags, and mani piles... every step feels like a dialogue with millennia-old beliefs. If you seek spiritual resonance during your journey, this place offers a sense of transcendental tranquility and power. 2. A breathtaking view of the sacred lake from the mountain Stand at Gangbala Pass (5,030 meters above sea level) and overlook Yamdrok Lake—the blue tears of the northern Himalayas! The lake's color shifts with the light of the sky, from Tiffany blue to emerald green, like a fallen lens from the gods. This is a photographer's paradise and a hidden haven for spiritual healing. 3. A Symphony of Primitive and Purity Desolate rock formations, whistling wind horses, the simple smiles of the Tibetan people... Gangbala Mountain preserves the most authentic atmosphere of Tibet. Free from over-commercialization, it offers a pure collision of nature, mountains, and faith. 2. How to Reach Gangbala Pass Smoothly? 1. Departure Point: Lhasa The distance from Lhasa to Gangbala Pass is approximately 70-100 kilometers (depending on your departure point), and the drive takes approximately 2.5 hours. We recommend chartering a car or sharing a ride (book in advance through your travel agency or hotel). Along the way, you can stop at the Yajiang River Valley Viewing Platform to take photos with the docile Tibetan mastiffs and lambs (remember to have change). 2. Route selection (1) Conventional route: Lhasa → Qushui County → Gangbala Mountain Road (S307 Provincial Road). The winding mountain road has many bends, but the road conditions are good. (2) Recommended time: Depart early in the morning to avoid afternoon clouds; the best time to view Yanghu Lake is from noon to afternoon on a sunny day (the lake is most gorgeous when the sun is directly shining). (3) Altitude sickness tips: The mountain pass is over 5,000 meters above sea level. It is recommended to prepare oxygen cylinders and glucose in advance, slow down your movements, and avoid running vigorously. 3. Tickets and tips (1) You need to buy a Yanghu Lake scenic area ticket (120 yuan/person) to visit the Gangbala Pass viewing platform, but if you only want to enjoy the lake at the mountain pass, you do not need to enter the paid viewing platform (there are excellent views on the roadside). (2) Respect local beliefs: Do not step on prayer flags or mani piles, and circle the prayer points in a clockwise direction. (3) Clothing suggestions: Windproof jacket + sunglasses + sunscreen! The wind at the mountain pass is strong and the ultraviolet rays are strong, but the sun is strong.

  • Yamdrok Yumtso
    󰺂7.3
    Nagarze County89.6 km from Lhasa
    Highlights:
    Sunrise over lake from observatory
    󱓊Himalayan sacred lake & 155 miles
    󱨠1416 positive reviews
    4.6/5
    Anonymous userAnonymous user

    The trip on the 5th was great. The staff at the reception hall were very helpful, and the driver, Mr. Wu, was also excellent; he drove very smoothly. We departed at 9 am and returned at 12 pm, seeing all three viewpoints – it was a wonderful trip.

  • Karola Glacier
    󰺂6.1
    GyantseMore than 100 km from Lhasa
    Highlights:
    󰀆Hike to glacier's edge
    󱓊Famous movie filming locations
    4.3/5
    大    牛大 牛

    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.

  • Nam Co Sheng Xiang Tian Men
    󰺂6.6
    256.32
    BaingoinMore than 100 km from Lhasa
    Highlights:
    󱨜Padmasambhava's sacred wedding site
    Two perfect arcs formed
    󱨠218 positive reviews
    4.2/5
    小武哥小武哥

    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.

  • Tashilhunpo Monastery
    󰺂5.7
    5549.15
    ShigatseMore than 100 km from Lhasa
    Highlights:
    󰀆Capture Nianchu River's beauty
    Snowy mountain views & more
    󱨠245 positive reviews
    4.6/5
    妙珍88妙珍88

    Tashilhunpo Monastery is the largest and most prestigious Gelugpa Tibetan Buddhist monastery in Shigatse, Tibet. With a history of nearly a thousand years, it is the residence of the Panchen Lama. The monastery is filled with magnificent halls and a strong religious atmosphere, attracting many tourists and believers.

  • Basomtso
    󰺂7.6
    Gongbo'gyamdaMore than 100 km from Lhasa
    Highlights:
    󰀆Boat tour: Zaxi Island scenery
    󱓊Lake island & Jeba Village
    󱨠2147 positive reviews
    4.6/5
    Anonymous userAnonymous user

    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.

  • Kadinggou Scenic Area
    󰺂6.3
    NyingchiMore than 100 km from Lhasa
    Highlights:
    Explore Tibetan culture & religion
    󰀆Natural oxygen bar & ion-rich
    󱨠104 positive reviews
    4.4/5
    斧头帮帮主至尊宝斧头帮帮主至尊宝

    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.

Best things to do in Lhasa (2025)

Looking for the ultimate experiences in Lhasa? From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, Lhasa offers an exceptional collection of activities and attractions that cater to every type of traveler.

Whether you’re here for sightseeing, adventure, or cultural exploration, these top-rated activities promise unforgettable memories.

Top-rated things to do in Lhasa

If you want to make the most of your trip, these activities deliver the full Lhasa experience. Expect popular attractions, unique local experiences, and must-see spots that capture the essence of the city.

Ganbala Mountain

• Gongga | 70.5 km from Lhasa

• : Scenic overlook for photos,Overlook Yamdrok Lake's beauty

Yamdrok Yumtso

• Nagarze County | 89.6 km from Lhasa

• : Sunrise over lake from observatory,Himalayan sacred lake & 155 miles

Karola Glacier

• Gyantse | More than 100 km from Lhasa

• : Hike to glacier's edge,Famous movie filming locations

Things to do for unique experiences

These activities provide memorable experiences beyond the ordinary. Enjoy cultural tours, adventure sports, guided excursions, and immersive local experiences designed for all interests.

Things to do near Lhasa

If you want to explore attractions just outside Lhasa, there are plenty of activities that combine scenic surroundings with convenient access to the city, perfect for day trips or short excursions.

Each of these activities offers a unique escape within 1–3 hours of Lhasa, ideal for travelers who want to combine sightseeing with local experiences.

What makes things to do in Lhasa special

• Iconic landmarks: Visit must-see sights that define the city.
• Local experiences: Engage in culture, crafts, and unique activities.
• Accessible adventures: Easily reachable attractions for all travelers.
• Diverse options: From relaxing experiences to adventurous outings.

Tips for booking things to do in Lhasa

1. Plan ahead for popular attractions to avoid long queues.
2. Book early for guided tours or seasonal events.
3. Compare prices and packages on Trip.com for exclusive deals and bundled experiences.
4. Consider weekday visits for a quieter and more personalized experience.

Experience the best things to do in Lhasa

Ready to explore the best of Lhasa? Discover Trip.Best's curated list of things to do and experience adventure, culture, and unforgettable memories.

Book your perfect activities on Trip.com today, where excitement and discovery awaits.

What are some Best Things to Do near Lhasa?
Some Best Things to Do near Lhasa include:Ganbala Mountain, Yamdrok Yumtso, Karola Glacier, Nam Co Sheng Xiang Tian Men, Tashilhunpo Monastery
What are some highly-rated Best Things to Do near Lhasa?
Some highly-rated Best Things to Do near Lhasa include:Ganbala Mountain:4.7, Yamdrok Yumtso:4.6, Karola Glacier:4.3, Nam Co Sheng Xiang Tian Men:4.2, Tashilhunpo Monastery:4.6
Where are Best Things to Do near Lhasa located?
The Best Things to Do near Lhasa are mainly located in:Ganbala Mountain:Gongga, Yamdrok Yumtso:Nagarze County, Karola Glacier:Gyantse, Nam Co Sheng Xiang Tian Men:Baingoin, Tashilhunpo Monastery:Shigatse
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