 Lhasa
is definitely many travelers' dream destination. Its deep blue sky,
sparkling river, mystery, religion, architecture, and the simple
and unsophisticated Tibetan
people attract thousands of visitors.
With an altitude of 3650 meters (11,975 feet),
Lhasa is one of the highest cities in the world. It has the highland
temperate semi-arid monsoon climate. Annual rainfall here is considerable
and mainly falls from the June to September Most of the time it
rains at night. The air in Lhasa is thin and the temperature is
comparatively low. The temperature differences during a single day
can be large. Comparatively from March to October, the climate becomes
mild and humid: this is the best season to travel in Tibet. The
spring and winter in Lhasa are dry and windy. Generally the May
Day Holiday is the beginning of the traveling season.
Clothes
Despite the amount of sunlight in Tibet, the daily difference in
temperature is still big. It is chilly at night even if the day
here is sunny. Most hotels in Tibet have no central heating. Bringing
winter clothes is therefore a wise choice. Generally a T-shirt,
overcoat and jeans are also indispensable. Sunhats, sunglasses and
suntan lotion are necessities. Also, if you intend to watch the
sunrise at Mt. Everest or Namtso, then warm clothes are a must.
In case to be burnt by the strong ultraviolet lights in this high-altitude
area, you are suggested to take sunscreens and sunglasses. What's
more, for it is usually windy and dry here, lipstick is also necessary.
Festivals
If you are lucky enough to catch a Tibetan festival during your
visit, it will surely make your trip more interesting and memorable.
- Shoton Festival
This is one of the largest festivals in Tibet and is held annually
from June 30th to July 6th of the Tibetan calendar. During the
festival, the Unveiling Ceremony of the giant Thangka of Buddha
is held in Drepung Monastery.
Tibetan
New Year
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
Tibetan New Year coincides with the low season for traveling.
Note: According to tradition, shops during this period close and
flights stop from January 1st to 5th.
- 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.

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