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
American Airlines aircraft approaching for landing

American Airlines Plans Larger Admirals Club Lounge in Austin

Mar 11, 2026 05:36 AM
Passenger cabin view during commercial flight

Middle East Tensions Begin to Shift Global Travel Plans

Mar 11, 2026 05:27 AM

What Makes Finland Feel Good to Live In

Mar 11, 2026 00:52 AM

Lufthansa Group Adds Extra Long-Haul Flights as Demand Jumps

Mar 11, 2026 00:04 AM
Philippine Airlines aircraft flying under cloudy sky

Philippine Airlines Extends Middle East Flight Cancellations Into Mid-March

Mar 10, 2026 23:58 PM
Tornado funnel cloud over open farmland

Loganair Offers Free Rebooking as Weather Warning Hits Scottish Islands

Mar 10, 2026 23:41 PM
United Airlines aircraft flying in clear blue sky

United Airlines Warns: Loud Phone Audio Could Lead To Flight Ban

Mar 10, 2026 23:35 PM
New York skyline with Manhattan bridges and One World Trade Center

Edinburgh Gains Daily New York Flight For Summer

Mar 9, 2026 23:39 PM
Kyrenia harbour with boats and waterfront buildings in northern Cyprus

Cyprus Holidays Dip After Drone Incident

Mar 9, 2026 23:23 PM

Places Around the World Where Women Still Face Entry Bans

Mar 9, 2026 23:16 PM

Island-Hopping Trips Gain Momentum Across Europe

Mar 9, 2026 23:07 PM
Airbnb listings displayed on a laptop screen during an online accommodation search

AI Travel Scams Are Getting Harder to Spot

Mar 9, 2026 22:52 PM
China Eastern widebody aircraft landing on airport runway

China Eastern Brings Direct Shanghai Flights Back to Stockholm

Mar 9, 2026 22:44 PM
Yellow airport sign showing passport control for EU citizens

EU Border Control Goes Digital With New Entry/Exit System

Mar 8, 2026 15:28 PM
SAS Airbus aircraft approaching runway during landing

SAS Returns to Riga With Daily Copenhagen Flights

Mar 8, 2026 13:01 PM

Brunei–London Flights Go Direct as Dubai Stop Paused

Mar 8, 2026 12:55 PM

airBaltic Schedules Third Dubai Repatriation Flight to Riga

Mar 7, 2026 03:39 AM
LOT Polish Airlines aircraft taking off from runway

LOT Begins Rolling Out Wi-Fi on Dreamliner Fleet

Mar 7, 2026 03:23 AM
Finnair aircraft parked at airport gate

Finnair Plans Special Muscat Flights to Bring Stranded Dubai Passengers Home

Mar 7, 2026 03:06 AM
Wizz Air aircraft parked on airport apron

Wizz Air Cleared for First UK–US World Cup Charter Flights

Mar 7, 2026 02:57 AM
Hotel guest room with sculpted wooden headboard design

New Downtown Hotel Opens Steps From San Antonio’s River Walk

Mar 7, 2026 02:42 AM
British Airways Airbus A380 aircraft in flight

British Airways Expands Business Class on Refitted A380

Mar 7, 2026 02:34 AM

Entire Tube Line Closed This Weekend as Track Works Disrupt London Travel

Mar 7, 2026 02:28 AM

California’s High-Speed Rail Plans Promise Faster LA–San Francisco Travel

Mar 7, 2026 02:11 AM
Dubai skyline with Burj Khalifa and downtown waterfront

Middle East Flights Slowly Return as Airlines Rebuild Schedules

Mar 7, 2026 02:05 AM
Camel riders near the pyramids at sunset

Egypt Holidays Continue Despite Regional Tensions

Mar 6, 2026 21:39 PM