Lhasa is both the political and religious
heart of Tibet. While the Potala
Palace, the home of the Dalai Lamas, the traditional theological
rulers of Tibet was the former political heart of Tibet. Now, in the
Tibet Autonomous Region, a province of China, Lhasa is still the
political center.
The religious center of Tibet is Jokhang
Temple, 2km to the east of the Potala. This 1300 year old temple
houses a pure gold Buddha statue that was a gift from the Tang Dynasty
of China.
Lhasa is also where all foreign travelers
to Tibet must arrive first and arrange for travel to other places in
Tibet. Although regulations change very rapidly and with little
notice, current regulations require foreigners to apply for travel
permits to most, if not all, destinations outside of Lhasa.
Permit fees can range from RMB100 to 300
per destination. If you are traveling independently, the Lhasa PSB
may not be willing to approve your permits and may refer you to a
local Lhasa travel agency.
