Lhasa Travel Tips
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| Jokhang Temple |
Dialing Code 0891
Zip code 850000
Emergency
Fire: 119
Police: 110
Ambulance: 120
Useful Number
Airport Inquiry: 6833446
Internet Cafe
Dozens of internet cafes can be found in Lhasa. The internet cafes in Makye Ame Restaurant and Barkhor Cafe are the most popular ones. Generally speaking it costs RMB 2.5 per hour.
Money
Since foreign exchange service is not offered in the more remote areas of Tibet, you are advised to get prepared with money in Lhasa. The Bank of China Tibet branch provides cash advances and cheque exchange services. Its location is No.28 Lingkhor Xi Lu, Lhasa. The opening hours are from 9:30 to 18:00, Monday to Friday; and 11:00 to 15:00, Saturday and Sunday.
Post Office
The biggest post office in Lhasa is located on the West Beijing Road, at the east side of the Potala Palace. The office not only offers full postal services but also sells various kinds of postcards. The opening hours are from 9:00 to 18:00.
Travel Permit
A visa and Tibet Travel Permit are essential.
A word of warning before your visit: your Tibet Travel Permit is only issued via Chinese Tour Operators. To facilitate the complicated application process, you are advised to work with a Chinese travel agency. A service fee of RMB 200 is usually required.
For more information, please refer to Tibet Travel Essential and Tibet FAQs .
Notes for those who are entering the high land for the first time
1. Don't run or move rapidly, allow time to adjust to the altitude.
2. It's useful to carry sunglasses, after-sun cream, a sunhat and lip balm as well as common medicines for colds and anodyne.
3. Eat vegetables and fruits.
4. Most people are going to suffer from Mountain Sickness . Don't worry, just follow the tips we offer and you will have no difficulties.
5. Show respect to the local people and their customs.
6. Leave no rubbish while visiting the land.
Communication
China Mobile coverage is available in some areas of the region, but there is no coverage in villages. Therefore don't rely on cell phones as a method of communication. Telephones can be found not only in the post office, but in many street booths and shops in Lhasa. 
Festivals
If you are lucky enough to catch a Tibetan festival during your visit, it will surely make your visit more interesting and memorable.
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Tibetan New Year
Buddha Unfolding Festival
Tibetan New Year is the grandest festival in Tibet. The celebrations last for ten days from January 1st to 10th of the Tibetan calendar. The main activities are held in the Jokhang Temple. Generally it coincides with the low season for visit.
- Saka Dawa Festival
Saka Dawa Festival is a unique and popular festival in spring. It is held on April 15th of the Tibetan calendar. On this day, the whole of Lhasa is immersed in incense smoke. The people of Lhasa walk around the wall of Jokhang Temple and the Potala Palace as a pilgrimage.
For more traditional festivals, please click the Tibet Festivals.
Getting to know more tips for visit in China, please visit China Travel Tips.
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