Tips in Lhasa

Do and Don’ts

1. As Lhasa is located on a plateau, visitors might temporarily experience altitude sickness, so be prepared for this. People with heart disease, high blood pressure, respiratory problems, epilepsy, or bad colds are advised not to travel in Tibet.

2. Non-Chinese citizens to Tibet must obtain travel permits to Tibet issued by the Tibet Autonomous Region Tourism Bureau.

3. Respect local religious customs. Do not spin prayer wheels in the wrong direction. Do not touch people’s heads. Do not smoke, touch statues of the Buddha, open sacred books, ring bells, sit on the seat designated for the Living Buddha, raise your voice, or take photos in temples.

4. When encountering a monastery, Mani stone site, pagoda, or other religious entities, be sure to pass it from left to right. Do not step over ritual items or braziers.