Shambhala Palace Lhasa Tibet

The rooftop terrace was a highlight, with great views across Lhasa and the Potala Palace. Shambhala Palace Hotel is also close to Bakhor, which made it easy to explore nearby. I liked its antique Tibetan decor and the glimpse it gives of Old Lhasa, something that's becoming harder to find. Even in winter, I had what I needed, and the friendly, down-to-earth staff shared useful tips for getting around Tibet. It felt like part of the trip, not just somewhere to sleep.

The wooden room felt spacious and peaceful, and it was clean and cozy. The staff kindly mentioned that the shower takes a few minutes to heat up, so I could start it ahead of time. They were helpful and friendly, and there’s oxygen available in the lobby if you have a reaction to the altitude. From the rooftop, you can see the Potala Palace at night. The hotel is in a former monk’s home, which gives it historical meaning. It’s about a ten-minute walk from Jokhang Temple, with Zhang-style restaurants and local shops nearby. The streets were quiet and clean, and I felt safe walking back at night despite there being only a few street lamps. If you want to try a Zhang-style stay in Lhasa, I’d recommend it. A note for HK residents: the hotel accepts them.

Our guide suggested Shambhala instead of the big, sterile, well-known hotel chains, and it was a charming, unusual Tibetan guesthouse. The rooms were rustic, with lots of wood and stone in the bathroom, but very clean and quiet. Internet generally worked well, and breakfast was modest but enough to get the day started. The staff spoke very little English, though their friendliness and willingness to help made up for that. There’s no elevator, just one fairly steep staircase, so it may not work for everyone. Carrying heavy backpacks up to the fourth floor was a challenge in Lhasa’s thin air.

Google Maps shows the Zhou Ma La Gong Hotel at this location. That’s where Shambala actually is, not the House of Shambala.