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

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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
    M29***51M29***51

    Yangzhuoyu Lake, also known as Yangzhuoyucuo, Tibetan meaning "Biyu Lake" or "Swan Lake", is located in Langkazi County, Shannan City, Tibet Autonomous Region, is the largest closed inland lake in the southern Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, and is one of the three major sacred lakes in Tibet. Yangzhuoyu Lake is bright and blue, with rich and beautiful scenery, integrating snow-capped mountains, glaciers, islands, pastures, farms and hot springs. The color of the lake will change with the changes of the light exposure, resulting in different lake colors. Yangzhuoyu Lake has become one of the important attractions of Tibet tourism with its unique natural scenery and rich cultural connotation, and is also an important base for studying the lake ecosystem and Tibetan culture of the plateau.

  • Karola Glacier
    󰺂6.1
    GyantseMore than 100 km from Lhasa
    Highlights:
    󰀆Hike to glacier's edge
    󱓊Famous movie filming locations
    4.3/5
    chen7711chen7711

    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.

  • Nam Co Sheng Xiang Tian Men
    󰺂6.6
    10.44
    BaingoinMore than 100 km from Lhasa
    Highlights:
    󱨜Padmasambhava's sacred wedding site
    Two perfect arcs formed
    󱨠218 positive reviews
    4.2/5
    Elanie0702Elanie0702

    The Holy Elephant Gate, the Wonderland on earth! Standing in front of the Holy Elephant Gate, you will feel that nature is really a magical work! This natural stone arch, like a giant elephant bowed its head to drink water, and like a gate to heaven, shocking to people's speechlessness. The blue sky, white clouds, snow mountains, holy lake, all gathered here, beautiful like a painting, every shot is a blockbuster! The lake in Namco is blue and bright, and the snowy mountains in the distance are shining, the sun is shining, and the lake is shining, as if scattered a diamond. Standing under the heaven gate, the wind blows over the ear, and feels that the soul has been purified, and all the troubles can be thrown behind your head in an instant. This is not only the beautiful scenery, but also the sacred atmosphere. Tibetans regard it as a holy place, and every step is full of the power of faith. Worth a visit! !

  • Tashilhunpo Monastery
    󰺂5.7
    225.82
    ShigatseMore than 100 km from Lhasa
    Highlights:
    󰀆Capture Nianchu River's beauty
    Snowy mountain views & more
    󱨠245 positive reviews
    4.6/5
    beauty of lovebeauty of love

    Situated in the heart of Tibet, Shigatse is proud of its famous Tashilunbu Temple, one of the six major temples of Tibetan Buddhism Gelu. Founded in 1447, Gendunzhuba, a disciple of Zongkaba, laid the cornerstone himself, and it has become a cultural treasure that worships countless Buddha statues and treasures of Buddhist classics.

  • 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
    linglizilinglizi

    Driving through Basongcuo (also known as Cuogao Lake) is located in Gongbu Jiangda County, Nyingchi City, about 3480 meters above sea level, is the famous holy lake of Red Church. The lake is clear and green, surrounded by snowy mountains, dense forests, known as "world wonderland". There is a thousand-year-old temple "Cuozong Temple" on Tashi Island in the heart of the lake, which integrates Tibetan Buddhism and natural landscape. Basongcuo has different scenery in the four seasons, with peach blossoms reflecting snow in spring and forests in autumn. It was rated as a national 4A-level scenic spot in 2000 and promoted to a national 5A-level tourist scenic spot in 2017. It is an important ecological tourism and pilgrimage site in eastern Tibet.

  • 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
    beauty of lovebeauty of love

    Kadinggou Scenic Area is a pleasant natural treasure! From the moment I stepped into this land, I was attracted by its magnificent landscape. The clear stream is flowing, the air is fresh and pleasant, as if every step can step out of the troubles of life. Walking along the trail, the greenery and wild flowers are refreshing, and the outline of the distant mountains is more mysterious under the sunset. Whether it is looking for peace alone or sharing a good time with family and friends, Kadinggou is the ideal choice. Really recommend to friends who love nature, the beauty here is definitely worth a visit!

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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