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
Scandinavian Airlines aircraft parked at gate during turnaround

Fuel Shock Forces SAS to Cut April Flights

Mar 19, 2026 11:19 AM
Modern hotel bedroom with balcony and warm lighting

Grand Hyatt Opens in Izmir After Major Redesign

Mar 19, 2026 11:03 AM

Cutty Sark Station Reopens Early After Major Upgrade

Mar 18, 2026 19:26 PM

Ritz-Carlton Yachts Plan New Routes for Winter 2027–2028

Mar 18, 2026 19:17 PM
Passenger walking through airport corridor with rolling suitcase

Belgrade Airport Adds Self Check-In and Bag Drop

Mar 18, 2026 19:02 PM
Man checking travel details on smartphone near window

EU Tests Pre-Travel App to Ease Border Queues

Mar 18, 2026 18:54 PM
Busy airport terminal with travellers walking through departure hall

Paderborn Airport to Host Travel Fair in April

Mar 18, 2026 16:58 PM
Eurowings aircraft in flight against clear sky

Eurowings Adds Greek Island Connections via Aegean Partnership

Mar 18, 2026 16:41 PM
British Airways aircraft taxiing on runway during daytime operations

British Airways Pauses Dubai Flights Until June Amid Ongoing Disruption

Mar 18, 2026 16:35 PM

Heathrow Adds New Routes Across Europe, US and Asia for Summer 2026

Mar 18, 2026 16:29 PM

Airlines Reroute Long-Haul Travel Away from Middle East Hubs

Mar 18, 2026 16:13 PM
Milan Cathedral Duomo exterior in evening light

Wizz Air Adds Aircraft and Routes in Milan Expansion

Mar 18, 2026 16:06 PM
Landscape view of Brač island coastline in Croatia

Air Serbia Adds Summer Flights to Brač

Mar 17, 2026 05:07 AM
airBaltic aircraft wing with airline logo during flight

airBaltic Pauses Dubai Flights Until October 2026

Mar 17, 2026 04:52 AM
Protester speaking through megaphone during strike

Berlin Airport Flights Halted by Strike on 18 March

Mar 17, 2026 04:44 AM

Wizz Air Adds Bratislava Flights from Berlin

Mar 17, 2026 04:28 AM

Disneyland Paris Opens Early Access to Frozen Land

Mar 16, 2026 23:51 PM
25 de Abril Bridge in Lisbon over the Tagus River

GOL Plans First Direct Europe Flights

Mar 16, 2026 23:45 PM
Condor Boeing 767 aircraft landing on runway

Condor Launches €70 Anniversary Fare Sale

Mar 16, 2026 23:39 PM
Modern hotel bedroom with large bed and warm lighting

Hyatt Brings Andaz Brand to Lisbon

Mar 16, 2026 23:23 PM
Lumo high-speed train travelling on UK railway tracks

Budget Lumo Trains Enter West Coast Main Line

Mar 14, 2026 04:06 AM
Airplane landing over city skyline at sunset

Will Rising Oil Prices Push Airfares Higher?

Mar 14, 2026 03:57 AM

Android Now Helps Airlines Track Lost Bags

Mar 14, 2026 03:42 AM

Crete Flights Multiply at Bremen Airport

Mar 14, 2026 03:34 AM
Barcelona coastline and W Hotel along the Mediterranean waterfront

Varna Adds Five Wizz Air Routes for Summer 2026

Mar 14, 2026 03:28 AM
Alicante skyline with Santa Bárbara Castle above the city at sunset

Linz Airport Sets Out Summer 2026 Routes

Mar 14, 2026 03:11 AM