Hotels in Lhasa, Tibet

Lhasa, the political and religious center of Tibet, is also the gateway to the natural wonders of the region's mountainous terrain. After the inauguration of the Qinghai-Lhasa train line in 2006, Tibet became more accessible to outsiders. Tourism boomed, which means you should visit the city while its culture and cityscape is still recognizable. A large selection of hotels are in the city, and they range from from pricey boutique hotels to backpackers' havens. Rates range greatly between low and high season. Non-Chinese travelers should also note that as of December 2009, all foreigners are required to join organized tour groups when traveling to Tibet.

House of Shambala

The epitome of retro chic, House of Shambala is made for pampered travelers who want a dash of local culture without sacrificing their comfort. The 10-room boutique hotel is a restored traditional Tibetan residence and is decorated in indigenous style. At the same time, its English-speaking staff and its amenities, such as in-room Internet access, will make your far-flung adventure easier. Relax at the hotel's spa facility--complete with on-site yoga lessons--after a day of trekking.

House of Shambala
7 jiri erxiang
Lhasa 850000, China
86 10 6402 7151 52
houseofshambhala.com

Kyichu Hotel Lhasa

One of the most popular hotels in Lhasa, Kyichu's 51 rooms are clean and comfortable, though by no means luxurious. It is the friendly staff and quality service that travelers rave about. Located on Barkhor Square in old Lhasa, it is close to many tourist attractions. Free Wi-Fi is available in certain parts of the hotel.

Kyichu Hotel Lhasa
No.149 Beijing East Road
Chengguan District
Lhasa 850000, China
86 891 633 1541
kyichuhotel.com

Four Points by Sheraton Lhasa

Four Points by Sheraton Lhasa is the only international chain hotel in the city, and it comes with all the amenities you expect from Sheraton. The staff are noted for their professionalism and are always eager to help. The hotel is a 10-minute walk to Jokhang Temple and old town Lhasa.

Four Points by Sheraton Lhasa
No. 5, Section 1 Lin Kuo East
Lhasa 850000, China
86 891 6348888
starwoodhotels.com/fourpoints/property/overview/index.html?propertyID=3182&language=en_US

Yak Hotel

A favorite among budget travelers, this Tibetan-owned and operated hotel has the vibrancy of a hostel but also the comfort and service of a hotel. The rooms are basic but clean. Make sure to ask for a room in the newly renovated section because room size and quality varies greatly. Start your morning by enjoying a hearty Western breakfast on the rooftop of the hotel, which has a view of the Potala Palace.

Yak Hotel
No.100 Beijing East Road
Lhasa 850000, China
86 891 6323496

Resources

China Tibet Tourism Bureau

Article Written By Stella Ying-Ju Lai

Stella Ying-Ju Lai is a writer in Virginia. She recently returned to the U.S. after a two-year stint in Asia as a financial journalist, and hopes to broaden the scope of her writing career to pop culture, arts and education. She received a master's degree in literature from The American University.

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