Movie & TV Filming Locations in Lhasa, China
1. Potala Palace
Iconic palace of the Dalai Lamas, used as a filming location for 'The Sky Painted Turbans'. Recognizable by its red and white walls and golden roofs.
- Historical Significance: Provides a glimpse into Tibetan history and culture
- Architectural Marvel: A stunning example of Tibetan Buddhist architecture
- Cultural Experience: Offers insight into Tibetan religious practices
2. Jokhang Temple
An important pilgrimage site for Tibetan Buddhists, it was featured in the film 'Seven Years in Tibet'. Known for its golden roof and intricate architecture.
- Spiritual Center: A sacred place to practice Buddhism
- Artistic Masterpiece: Showcases beautiful Tibetan art and sculptures
- Cultural Interaction: Offers opportunities to learn about Tibetan customs and traditions
3. Barkhor Street
A bustling market street surrounding the Jokhang Temple, used as a filming location for 'The Last Tibetan'. Famous for traditional Tibetan shops and pilgrim circuits.
- Shopping Experience: Allows visitors to purchase traditional Tibetan goods
- Cultural Immersion: Provides a unique look into daily life in Lhasa
- Pilgrimage Site: Offers the chance to participate in Tibetan pilgrimage practices
4. Drepung Monastery
One of the 'Three Great Monasteries of Gelug', used as a filming location for 'Kundun'. Known for its white buildings and expansive courtyards.
- Buddhist Learning Center: A center for Buddhist teachings and philosophy
- Architectural Beauty: Features stunning Tibetan architecture
- Monastic Life: Offers a glimpse into monastic life and practices
5. Sera Monastery
Another of the 'Three Great Monasteries of Gelug', used as a filming location for 'Seven Years in Tibet'. Known for its debating courtyard and red-roofed buildings.
- Monastic Debates: Allows visitors to observe monks debating Buddhist teachings
- Architectural Wonders: Showcases remarkable Tibetan architecture
- Historical Insight: Provides a deeper understanding of Tibetan history and culture
6. Norbulingka Palace
Summer palace of the Dalai Lamas, used as a filming location for 'Kundun'. Notable for its gardens and traditional Tibetan architecture.
- Leisurely Strolls: Enjoy tranquil walks in beautiful gardens
- Cultural Preservation: A place dedicated to preserving Tibetan art and culture
- Historical Context: Offers insights into the lives of the Dalai Lamas
7. Samding Monastery
A unique Nyingma monastery, used as a filming location for 'The Last Tibetan'. Known for its female abbess and sacred lake.
- Female Leadership: One of the few monasteries led by a woman
- Sacred Lake: Offers peaceful moments next to holy waters
- Nyingma Tradition: Experience the teachings of an ancient Tibetan Buddhist school
8. Yamdrok Lake
Turquoise lake used as a filming location for 'Seven Years in Tibet'. Known for its stunning views and holy significance to Tibetans.
- Natural Beauty: Offers breathtaking vistas of turquoise waters
- Cultural Significance: Holds spiritual importance for Tibetan Buddhists
- Photography Opportunities: Perfect backdrop for unforgettable photos
9. Tsedang Region
Area used as a filming location for 'Kundun' and home to the famous Yarlung Tsangpo Grand Canyon. Known for its rich history and natural beauty.
- Historical Roots: The cradle of Tibetan civilization
- Grand Canyon Marvel: One of the deepest canyons in the world
- Cultural Exploration: Allows visitors to delve into Tibetan history and heritage
10. Yarlung Tsangpo Grand Canyon
The deepest canyon in the world, used as a filming location for 'Kundun'. Known for its breathtaking views and unique geological features.
- Natural Wonder: One of the most spectacular natural sights on earth
- Geographical Significance: Influences the flow of major Asian rivers
- Adventure Opportunities: Provides opportunities for thrilling outdoor activities
11. Ganden Monastery
Another 'Great Three Monastery' of Gelug, used as a filming location for 'Seven Years in Tibet'. Known for its high elevation and picturesque surroundings.
- High Altitude Experience: Allows visitors to explore at high elevations
- Monastic Learning: A center for Buddhist teachings and philosophy
- Natural Beauty: Offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape
12. Changsang Nature Reserve
Home to rare and endangered wildlife such as the Tibetan Antelope, used as a filming location for 'The Last Tibetan'. Known for its rich biodiversity and pristine landscapes.
- Wildlife Spotting: Opportunities to observe endangered species
- Natural Preservation: A sanctuary for Tibet's unique ecosystems
- Hiking Adventures: Offers exciting hiking trails through diverse landscapes
13. Tibetan Animal Institute
A conservation center for endangered Tibetan animals such as the Tibetan Antelope. Used as a filming location for 'The Last Tibetan'. Known for its efforts in animal preservation.
- Animal Conservation: Contributes to the protection of endangered species
- Educational Opportunities: Offers educational programs about Tibetan wildlife
- Visiting Endangered Animals: Allows visitors to see rare and endangered species up close
14. Namtso Lake
Turquoise lake used as a filming location for 'The Last Tibetan'. Known for its stunning beauty and sacred significance to Tibetans.
- Natural Beauty: Offers breathtaking vistas of turquoise waters
- Cultural Significance: Holds spiritual importance for Tibetan Buddhists
- Photography Opportunities: Perfect backdrop for unforgettable photos
15. Tashilhunpo Monastery
One of the largest and most important monasteries in Tibet, used as a filming location for 'Seven Years in Tibet'. Known for its impressive architecture and sacred relics.
- Monastic Learning: A center for Buddhist teachings and philosophy
- Architectural Marvel: Showcases remarkable Tibetan architecture
- Historical Context: Provides a deeper understanding of Tibetan history and culture