
Weird & Unusual Attractions in Lhasa, China
1. Potala Palace Ghost Tour
A night-time tour exploring ghost stories and legends associated with the Potala Palace.
- Spooky Atmosphere: Experience an eerie, ghostly ambiance under the cover of darkness.
- Historical Tales: Uncover centuries-old tales of supernatural events within the Palace walls.
- Exclusive Experience: A unique and less-crowded tour option compared to daytime visits.
2. Mummy of Langdarma
Visit the mummified remains of Langdarma, the ninth king of Tibet who was mysteriously killed in the 9th century.
- Ancient Artifact: See one of the oldest known mummies in the world.
- Mystery and Legend: Learn about the various legends surrounding Langdarma's death and mummification.
- Rare Museum Exhibit: An exclusive opportunity to view this important historical artifact.
3. Lhasa Art Museum's Bizarre Collection
Explore the museum's collection of Tibetan art that includes some bizarre and unusual pieces.
- Unusual Themes: Discover artwork depicting themes rarely found in traditional Tibetan art.
- Unique Perspectives: View artworks by modern and contemporary Tibetan artists with fresh perspectives.
- Interactive Gallery: Engage with interactive exhibits showcasing unusual aspects of Tibetan culture.
4. Jokhang Temple's Wishing Stones
Participate in the ancient practice of placing a stone on Jokhang Temple's walls to make a wish.
- Tibetan Tradition: Experience a centuries-old tradition still practiced today.
- Powerful Symbolism: Connect with the spiritual energy of the temple through this simple act.
- Wishful Thinking: Make a wish and see if it comes true!
5. Lhasa's Sand Mandala Festival
Witness the creation and destruction of intricate sand mandalas during this annual festival.
- Artistic Mastery: Observe monks constructing these beautiful, detailed works.
- Transient Beauty: Appreciate the temporary and fragile nature of the mandalas.
- Cultural Significance: Gain insight into the spiritual and cultural significance of sand mandalas in Tibetan Buddhism.
6. Lhasa's Street Food Markets
Discover unique Tibetan street foods such as yak butter tea, roasted barley flour, and fried snakes at local markets.
- Exotic Delicacies: Taste food items that are not commonly found outside of Tibet.
- Authentic Experience: Immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture through its street foods.
- Adventurous Dining: Try some exotic dishes that may be out of your comfort zone!
7. Lhasa's Barkhor Street Circumambulation
Join locals in the spiritual practice of walking around Jokhang Temple on Barkhor Street.
- Spiritual Journey: Participate in this centuries-old pilgrimage practice.
- Vibrant Market Atmosphere: Experience the bustling market atmosphere with colorful stalls and friendly vendors.
- Cultural Exchange: Connect with local Tibetans and learn about their traditions during this shared experience.
8. Drepung Monastery's Giant Thangka
Visit the monastery to see one of the largest thangkas (Tibetan scroll paintings) in the world.
- Stunning Artwork: Admire the intricate details and beautiful colors of this colossal thangka.
- Religious Significance: Gain insight into Buddhist mythology through this monumental artwork.
- Historical Context: Learn about the history and meaning behind the creation of this enormous thangka.
9. Sera Monastery's Monk Debate
Watch as monks engage in vigorous debates, a central part of Buddhist learning.
- Intellectual Exchange: Gain insight into the depth and rigor of Tibetan Buddhist scholarship.
- Cultural Tradition: Observe a centuries-old tradition that continues to play a crucial role in monastic life.
- Lively Atmosphere: Feel the energy and excitement of this intellectual competition.
10. Lhasa's Yak Burial Ceremony
Participate in a unique ceremony where yaks are treated as deities and buried with great respect.
- Respectful Tradition: Witness this fascinating tradition that holds deep spiritual significance for Tibetans.
- Honoring the Yak: Learn about the important role yaks play in Tibetan culture and their connection to the natural world.
- Colorful Ceremony: Experience the vibrant and emotional energy of this moving ceremony.
11. Norbulingka Palace's Secret Tunnels
Explore secret tunnels used by the Dalai Lama to escape in times of danger.
- Historical Escape Routes: Discover hidden passageways that played a crucial role in Tibetan history.
- Secrets and Legends: Learn about the legends surrounding these tunnels and their role in protecting the Dalai Lama.
- Adventurous Exploration: Navigate these underground passageways for an unforgettable adventure.
12. Lhasa's Traditional Tibetan Medicine Hospitals
Visit traditional hospitals where Tibetan medicine is practiced using unique herbal remedies.
- Holistic Approach: Learn about the holistic approach to health and healing in Tibetan medicine.
- Herbal Remedies: Discover the various herbs used in Tibetan medicine and their benefits.
- Healing Practices: Observe traditional practices such as acupuncture, cupping, and moxibustion.
13. Lhasa's Tashilhunpo Monastery's Mummified Lamas
Visit the monastery to see the mummies of past Panchen Lamas.
- Religious Significance: Gain insight into the role and importance of the Panchen Lama in Tibetan Buddhism.
- Ancient Artifact: See the preserved bodies of these important religious leaders.
- Mystery and Legend: Learn about the legends surrounding their preservation and the beliefs associated with mummification.
14. Lhasa's Shadow Play Theatre
Watch shadow puppet shows depicting Tibetan folklore and mythology.
- Ancient Tradition: Experience a centuries-old storytelling tradition.
- Fascinating Storytelling: Enjoy captivating tales from Tibetan folklore and mythology.
- Cultural Exchange: Connect with local Tibetans through this shared cultural experience.
15. Lhasa's Yak Butter Sculpture Museum
Visit a museum dedicated to yak butter sculptures, showcasing intricate and beautiful works of art.
- Unique Medium: Appreciate the skill and creativity involved in working with yak butter as a medium.
- Artistic Mastery: Admire the intricate details and beautiful designs of these sculptures.
- Cultural Symbolism: Gain insight into the cultural significance of yaks in Tibetan society.