Planning a stay in Lhasa’s historic center? Choosing the right hotel is essential—especially for international travelers. Only hotels with official foreign reception licenses can legally host non-Chinese passport holders. At check-in, you must present:
- A valid passport
- A valid Tibet Travel Permit (arranged in advance through a registered Tibet travel agency)
Below is a carefully verified list of foreign-friendly hotels near Jokhang Temple, Barkhor Street, and Lhasa Old Town, ideal for your 2026 Tibet tour.
Why Stay Near Jokhang Temple & Barkhor Street?
Staying in Lhasa Old Town places you at the heart of Tibetan culture. You’ll be steps away from:
- The sacred Jokhang Temple
- The lively Barkhor Street
- The historic Lhasa Old Town district
This location allows you to witness morning pilgrimages, spin prayer wheels alongside locals, and explore traditional markets without dealing with traffic or long transfers.
Top Recommended Foreign-Friendly Hotels in Lhasa
1. Gurkha Boutique Hotel (Jokhang Temple Barkhor Street Branch)
Address: No.45 Linkuo South Road, Chengguan District, Lhasa
Distance: 1-minute walk to Barkhor security gate; 5-minute walk (400m) to Jokhang Temple
Why stay here?
Housed in the former Nepali Consulate building—a recognized cultural heritage site—this boutique hotel blends history with comfort.
Highlights:
- Fully licensed to host foreign guests
- Free access to the in-house Gesar Museum
- Oxygen supply and humidifiers in all rooms
- Rooftop views of Potala Palace
- Complimentary Tibetan costume photo experience
This hotel is ideal for travelers seeking a cultural atmosphere in the very heart of Barkhor Old Town.
2. Thangka Hotel
Address: No.38 Yutuo Road, near Jokhang Temple entrance
Distance: 3-minute walk to Jokhang Temple
A popular choice among international visitors, Thangka Hotel combines traditional Tibetan aesthetics with modern comfort.
Highlights:
- Official foreign reception qualification
- Authentic Tibetan interior design
- Oxygen-equipped guest rooms
- Multilingual staff
- Surrounded by restaurants, cafés, and souvenir shops
Its location makes it perfect for travelers wanting immediate access to Barkhor Street shopping and temple visits.
3. Lhasa Kyichu Hotel
Location: Inside Barkhor Old Town, between Jokhang Temple and Potala Palace
Distance: 2 minutes to Jokhang Square; 1 minute to Barkhor Circuit
One of Lhasa’s oldest foreigner-friendly guesthouses, this long-established hotel has extensive experience hosting international travelers.
Highlights:
- Licensed for foreign guests
- Budget to mid-range room options
- Prime central location
- Helpful staff familiar with Tibet Travel Permit procedures
A great option for travelers seeking affordable accommodation in the spiritual center of Lhasa.
4. Lhasa Jicai International Hotel (Barkhor Branch)
Address: Yutuo Road, Chengguan District
Distance: 5 minutes to Jokhang Temple; 3 minutes to Barkhor Street
This mid-to-high-end hotel offers upgraded comfort while remaining close to the Old Town attractions.
Highlights:
- Full foreign reception license
- Luxury bedding and modern interiors
- Oxygen systems in rooms
- On-site Tibetan and international restaurants
- Business facilities available
Suitable for travelers looking for extra comfort without sacrificing location.
5. Vienna International Hotel (Lhasa Potala Palace Jokhang Temple Branch)
Address: No.63 Linkuo East Road
Distance: 8 minutes to Jokhang Temple; 6 minutes to Barkhor Street
Part of the well-known Vienna International Hotel, this property offers standardized service and dependable quality.
Highlights:
- Licensed to host foreign travelers
- Clean, modern rooms
- Oxygen supply available
- Free parking
- English-speaking front desk staff
Ideal for travelers who prefer international-style chain hotels with predictable service standards.
6. Lhasa Dangye Ling Oxygen Hotel (Jokhang Temple Barkhor Street Branch)
Address: No.10 Danjielin Road, within Danjielin Monastery compound
Distance: 2-minute walk to Jokhang Temple
This beautifully renovated traditional Tibetan courtyard hotel offers a peaceful retreat within the Old Town.
Highlights:
- Foreign guest license verified
- Glass-roofed atrium
- Quiet ambiance despite central location
- Oxygen-enriched rooms
- Cozy on-site café
Perfect for travelers who want an authentic Tibetan architectural experience with modern comfort.
Important Tips for Foreign Travelers Visiting Lhasa
1. Always Confirm Foreign Reception Qualification
When booking through platforms like Booking.com, Trip.com, or Agoda, clearly confirm that the hotel can legally accept foreign passport holders. Some hotels in Barkhor Old Town do not have this permit.
2. Required Documents at Check-In
You must present:
- Your passport
- A valid Tibet Travel Permit
The permit must be arranged in advance through a licensed Tibet travel agency. It cannot be obtained at the airport or train station upon arrival.
3. Prepare for High Altitude (3,650m)
Lhasa sits at 3,650 meters above sea level. For your first night, prioritize hotels with:
- Central oxygen systems
- Portable oxygen machines
- Humidifiers
All recommended hotels above offer oxygen support, which can significantly ease altitude discomfort.
4. Choose Location Strategically
Staying inside Barkhor Old Town—such as at Gurkha Boutique Hotel, Kyichu Hotel, or Danjie Linshe—saves travel time and allows you to:
- Experience early morning pilgrimages
- Explore night markets easily
- Walk to major attractions without traffic delays
For most first-time visitors to Tibet, location and foreign reception qualification should be your top priorities when selecting a hotel in Lhasa.
