Before You Go Checklist

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You can find the latest updates on Lonely Planet Lhasa Guide.

High altitude sickness is a real concern for many visitors. Consult your doctor about medication before you start your journey. This ensures your body can handle the thin mountain air. Start taking your prescribed medication as directed by a professional.

Travel insurance is a vital part of your trip planning. Choose a policy that covers high-altitude trekking and medical evacuations. This provides peace of mind while you explore the plateau. Verify that your policy is valid for the Tibet Autonomous Region.

Research the best time for Lhasa walking tours to pack correctly. Seasonal changes affect temperature and the amount of gear needed. Check the local weather forecast one week before your flight. You might consider a free walking tour in Lhasa to see the sights.

• Valid Tibet Travel Permit and visa copies
• Comprehensive high altitude travel insurance policy
• Prescription altitude sickness medication from your doctor
• Printed copies of your full flight itinerary
• Local currency in small cash denominations
• Offline maps of the Lhasa old town area
• Passport valid for at least six months
• Emergency contact numbers written on paper

Essential Clothing and Gear

Dressing in layers is the best strategy for Lhasa. Temperatures can drop quickly when the sun goes down. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer to keep skin dry. Add a fleece or down jacket for extra warmth.

Your choice of footwear will determine your daily comfort level. Select shoes with good arch support and breathable fabric. The streets can be uneven in the older parts of town. Use a Lhasa old town walking route map to plan paths.

Protecting your head and neck is crucial in the mountains. A wide-brimmed hat shields your face from intense solar radiation. A light scarf can protect your neck from wind and dust. These items are lightweight and very easy to pack.

• Moisture wicking base layers for daily wear
• Warm fleece or lightweight down jacket
• Comfortable walking shoes with good traction
• Wide brimmed sun hat for UV protection
• Lightweight windbreaker for breezy afternoon walks
• Moisture wicking socks to prevent painful blisters
• Buff or scarf for wind and dust
• Comfortable trousers suitable for long walking days

On the Day Checklist

Start your morning with a light meal and water. Hydration is the most important factor for altitude comfort. Carry a reusable water bottle to stay refreshed all day. Refill your bottle at your hotel before you leave.

The UV rays in the Himalayas are extremely powerful. Apply high-SPF sunscreen to all exposed skin before walking. Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from the bright glare. Reapply your sun protection every few hours for safety.

Many visitors choose to how to visit Barkhor Street circuit for culture. This area is perfect for observing local pilgrims and life. Keep your camera ready but always ask before taking photos. Respect the local traditions while you explore the temples.

• Reusable water bottle with filtered water inside
• High protection sun cream and lip balm
• Polarized sunglasses for strong mountain UV rays
• Lightweight daypack with comfortable padded shoulder straps
• Small healthy snacks like nuts or energy bars
• Portable power bank for your mobile phone
• Small amount of cash for temple donations
• Hand sanitizer or small pack of tissues

Don't Pack These Items

Space in your suitcase is limited and very valuable. Avoid packing heavy hiking boots for city walks. Light sneakers or walking shoes are better for pavement. Heavy boots will only tire your feet out faster.

Formal clothing is generally unnecessary for travelers in Tibet. The local culture is casual and focuses on layers. Leave the suits and evening gowns at home. Focus on practical items that you can wear daily.

Large umbrellas are difficult to carry in crowded markets. A lightweight rain poncho is a more efficient choice. It keeps your hands free for taking photos. Ponchos also pack down much smaller than metal umbrellas.

• Heavy professional mountaineering boots for city walks
• Formal suits or heavy evening wear items
• Large and bulky traditional metal framed umbrellas
• Excessive amounts of heavy or expensive jewelry
• Large full sized bottles of liquid toiletries
• Uncomfortable or brand new stiff leather shoes
• Electric hair dryers or bulky styling tools
• Heavy hardcover books that add significant weight

Solo Traveler Mini-Checklist

Solo travelers should focus on safety and local communication. Download a reliable translation app for daily interactions. This makes ordering food or asking for directions easier. Check for offline language packs before you arrive.

Keep a list of emergency contacts in your wallet. Include your hotel address written in English and Tibetan. This helps if you get lost in winding alleys. Show the card to a taxi driver if needed.

Joining a group can enhance your city experience. Learn how to join Lhasa walking tours to meet others. Shared experiences often lead to lasting travel friendships. It is also a great way to stay safe.

• Local SIM card with an active data plan
• Translation app with an offline Tibetan language
• Emergency contact card kept in your wallet
• Hotel business card with the local address
• Small whistle for emergency signaling if required
• Backup paper map of the city center
• Personal first aid kit with basic bandages
• Digital copies of documents on cloud storage

Common Mistakes Checklist

Many people try to see everything immediately. This often leads to exhaustion and altitude sickness. Take it slow and let your body adjust. Rest frequently during your first two days.

Forgetting to drink enough water is a frequent error. You lose moisture quickly in the dry mountain air. Drink even when you do not feel thirsty. Avoid caffeine and alcohol during your first few days.

You should also check out free things to do in Lhasa for tips. Planning your budget helps avoid overspending on traps. Always carry some small change for temple donations. Respectful behavior is expected in all religious sites.

• Walking too fast during the first day
• Forgetting to apply sunscreen every few hours
• Wearing only one thick layer of clothing
• Ignoring early signs of altitude sickness symptoms
• Carrying a heavy and overloaded daily backpack
• Not drinking enough water throughout the day
• Taking photos inside temples without asking permission
• Forgetting to pack essential personal prescription medications