Tourists Fought Over a Photo Opportunity at the Famous Potala Palace

By Ivan PetrenkoSep 5, 2024 16:30 PMNews
Share:
Potala Palace in Lhasa, Tibet, under a clear blue sky
Potala Palace is a major attraction, drawing thousands of tourists daily. Source: unsplash

In the historic center of Lhasa, near the famous Potala Palace, a conflict broke out between a group of tourists, catching the attention of locals and social media users alike. The reason for the incident was the desire to take a photo in front of the palace while holding a 50-yuan banknote, which features an image of this architectural masterpiece.

Potala Palace is one of Tibet's most recognizable landmarks, attracting travelers from all over the world. However, the large number of visitors can sometimes lead to unexpected situations. In a recent incident, several tourists couldn’t agree on who would occupy the best photo spot, quickly escalating into a physical confrontation. In a video captured by witnesses, it’s clear that the women argued and then got into a fight, despite some attempts to resolve the situation peacefully.

The viewing area near Potala Palace draws many tourists, as people often want to take a unique photo with a 50-yuan banknote, which features an image of the palace itself. This has become a kind of tradition, making this spot particularly crowded. Some visitors, in their eagerness to secure the best place for a photo, create tension among other tourists.

Public Reaction

The incident sparked lively discussions on social media, with users expressing surprise not only at the fight itself but also at how the participants managed to continue the conflict at Lhasa’s high altitude, known for its thin air. One commenter remarked: "I experienced hypoxia while I was in Tibet. How did they still have the energy to fight?"

This case highlights the importance of following proper behavior rules at tourist sites. Travelers should remember to respect cultural and social norms, especially in historical places like Potala Palace, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Calmness and respect for others and local customs are key to having a successful and enjoyable trip.

Top Articles
Top 10 reasons for flight cancelation by airlines: a clear algorithm of actions to get compensation

Top 10 reasons for flight cancelation by airlines: a clear algorithm of actions to get compensation

Oct 16, 2025 16:22 PM
Smartphone with eSIM logo surrounded by travel essentials like flowers, map, camera, and sunglasses

Where to Buy eSIM at the Best Price: A Full Review of Tariffs and Options

Aug 8, 2025 10:54 AM

No More SIM Swaps: The eSIM Travel Solution You’ll Actually Use

Aug 4, 2025 16:51 PM

Not Just a Suitcase: My Personal Checklist for Smart Travelers in 2025

Mar 3, 2025 18:00 PM
More News
United Airlines aircraft flying in clear sky

Economy Beds Without Business Class Prices

Mar 27, 2026 22:08 PM
Rocky Mediterranean cove with clear turquoise water

Gdańsk Expands Summer Map With Over 190 Routes

Mar 27, 2026 21:56 PM

Biometric Checks Cause Long Queues At Spanish Airports

Mar 27, 2026 01:42 AM

Europe Gains More Premium Links To The Maldives

Mar 27, 2026 01:37 AM
Coastal town and beach on Thassos island

Jet2 Adds Thassos to Birmingham Summer 2027 Programme

Mar 27, 2026 01:24 AM
Wizz Air aircraft approaching runway

Wizz Air Expands App-Based Ordering Across Its Fleet

Mar 26, 2026 21:21 PM
Sand dunes and beach in Fuerteventura at sunset

FMO Adds Fuerteventura and Rhodes to Summer Flights

Mar 26, 2026 21:19 PM
Colourful giveaway sign against blue sky

London Southend Ties Giveaway To Summer Routes

Mar 26, 2026 21:05 PM
Small electric aircraft on airport runway

Electric Air Taxis Move Closer To Real Airport Use

Mar 26, 2026 20:53 PM

Four Seasons Expands Travel Options With First Yacht

Mar 25, 2026 23:28 PM

Quantum Navigation Trial Begins on Britain’s Railway Network

Mar 25, 2026 23:06 PM
Modern premium hotel room with minimalist design

Minor Hotels Launches Colbert Collection With First Opening in Italy

Mar 25, 2026 22:52 PM
airBaltic Airbus A220-300 aircraft on snowy runway

airBaltic Adds Winter Routes Linking Ski Resorts and Canary Islands

Mar 25, 2026 22:47 PM
Child meeting Father Christmas

LaplandUK Expands Festive Experience Ahead of 2026 Ticket Release

Mar 25, 2026 22:34 PM
Woman looking at Angkor Wat temple in Asia

Fuel Limits and Shorter Hours Affect Travel Beyond Middle East

Mar 25, 2026 11:41 AM

Easter Holiday Travel Picks Up at Bristol Airport

Mar 25, 2026 11:39 AM

New Halifax–Copenhagen Route Expands Scandinavia–Canada Connections

Mar 25, 2026 11:25 AM
Ryanair aircraft on runway near airport buildings

Hahn Adds Rabat and Eastern Europe Routes for Summer 2026

Mar 25, 2026 00:23 AM
Ferry sailing along Norwegian fjord mountains

Newcastle–Bergen Ferry Could Return After 18 Years

Mar 25, 2026 00:18 AM
Cruise ship sailing at sunset on open sea

Hydrogen Cruise Ship Set for First Sailings in 2026

Mar 24, 2026 22:56 PM
Málaga skyline with cathedral and palm trees

Bremen Adds Extra Ryanair Flights to Zadar and Málaga

Mar 24, 2026 22:42 PM
Cow grazing on green pasture

Slovakia Bans Certain Food Imports Over Disease Risk

Mar 24, 2026 11:47 AM

Gatwick Adds Bucharest Route With Six Weekly Flights

Mar 24, 2026 11:34 AM

Wind Alert May Affect Sumburgh Flights

Mar 24, 2026 11:21 AM
Transavia aircraft on runway with airline branding visible

Transavia Moves Flights as Eindhoven Closes for Renovation

Mar 24, 2026 11:19 AM
Main entrance of Birmingham Curzon Street Station with glass façade and public square

Birmingham’s New HS2 Station Set to Open in 2030

Mar 23, 2026 22:55 PM