17-10-2019
The Administrative Office of the Potala Palace announced a notice that from October 15, 2019 to March 15, 2020, same day appointment and free entrance can be applied.
The official notice
Some tourists may wonder why it is free during this period? Is it because it’s not a good time to visit? Of course it’s not the case.
1. The weather in winter is mainly shiny
Tibet's winter is dominated by sunny days with large temperature difference between days and nights. Lhasa's winter starts in November and ends at the end of February. In this 120 day winter, 90% are sunny days. Of course the temperature drop dramatically if it rains or snows. Usually the temperature ranges between 20 degrees centigrade ~ 10 degrees centigrade during daytime and 10 degrees centigrade ~ -10 degrees centigrade during night.
As the city closest to the sky, Lhasa is known as “city of sunshine” in China. It is super comfortable to enjoy the winter sunshine in Lhasa, that’s why the Tibetan people get tanner in winter than in summer. The sunshine is warm yet too hot.
Find a teahouse and order a cup of sweet tea, see the stray dogs having sunbath, enjoy the leisure time and city with less tourists and tour groups.
2. Tibet travel is relatively cheaper in winter
There are more tourists visiting Tibet from May to September. Compared with the peak season, isn’t it great to have fewer people in the Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple and other scenic spots. Ramble on the Barkhor street and take full advantage of tourism off season. Besides Potala Palace, a lot of other tourism sites also applies off season price or free entrance.
Fewer tourists will inevitably lead to more and cheaper hotel choices. Also the flights into and out of Lhasa would have lower rate.
3. Experience the atmosphere of Tibetan New Year
The date of Tibetan New Year is generally the same as that of Chinese Spring Festival. If you visit Tibet during new year, you could experience the exotic new year atmosphere.
However, as a country with huge population, New Year also means home returning of migrant workers college students. Please contact us in advance for the train ticket booking.
4. What can I see in winter?
There are several peaks over 8,000 meters in Tibet. For many visitors, Tibet is not only a place to visit monasteries and temples, also a good time to witness the majestic mountains. Mountains like Nangabawa or Mt. Everest are easier to seem more clearly without the rainy season mist. Who doesn’t want to see the real face under the mysterious veil?
5. Do I need to pay extra attention to prevent high altitude sickness in winter?
Autumn has the highest oxygen content of fours seasons in Tibet. The oxygen content would lower by 3-4 percentage in winter. But no need to panic, whether have high altitude sickness mainly depends on everyone's physical fitness.
Avoid strenuous exercise upon your arrival. Pay attention not to exercise violently before entering Tibet. The oxygen in the plateau is thin. It's better to let the body slowly adapt the altitude. Having a coat before or in Tibet could be a big deal, make sure to keep us posted about if you have any sign of having a cold.
6. What need to be aware of when visiting Tibet in winter?
The temperature gap between day and night is significant especially in winter. Make sure you are well prepared for the low temperature, strong wind & ultraviolet rays and the dry air.
It is necessary to have a warm winter coat and sports jeans or ski trousers and waterproof shoes. Do not forget to bring your lipstick, moisturizing lotion and sunscreen.
Tibet in winter has a different charm that definitely worth a visit. We can’t wait to arrange an unforgettable journey for you. Contact us by a simple click.