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
Ryanair aircraft on the runway

Ryanair Drops Mandatory Family Seat Fee

Jun 28, 2026 22:43 PM
Scandic Finnsnes hotel rendering beside the waterfront

Senja Trips to Gain a Larger Hotel Base

Jun 28, 2026 22:37 PM

Nuremberg Opens Up for Christmas Trips

Jun 28, 2026 22:24 PM

Berlin Gets a New Beirut Link

Jun 28, 2026 22:11 PM
TUI aircraft taking off from an airport runway

TUI Points to Cheaper Last-Minute Seats

Jun 28, 2026 22:08 PM
Crete coastline with turquoise sea and cliffs

Corendon Adds Promo Code for Selected Crete Flights

Jun 27, 2026 23:15 PM
Qingdao waterfront and pier

Gatwick Adds Qingdao for Summer

Jun 27, 2026 23:02 PM
Passport control sign at a European airport

Rome Airports May Pause EES Checks

Jun 27, 2026 22:59 PM
Outdoor pool at a modern hotel in Milan

Italy Gets Four More IHG Hotels

Jun 27, 2026 22:46 PM

U.S. Bag Rechecks Start to Disappear

Jun 27, 2026 22:33 PM

Spain’s Paid Beach Shower Test Begins

Jun 26, 2026 22:57 PM
Compact Scandic Go room with twin beds in Finland

Scandic Go Arrives in Turku and Oulu

Jun 26, 2026 22:44 PM
Restored Sala delle Quattro Porte inside the Doge’s Palace in Venice

Doge’s Palace Opens a Restored Venice Landmark

Jun 26, 2026 22:31 PM
AmaRudi river cruise ship sailing on a European rive

Europe’s Biggest River Ship Gets a Danube Date

Jun 26, 2026 22:28 PM
Reindeer in snowy Finnish Lapland

easyJet Adds New UK Flights to Kittilä and Rovaniemi

Jun 26, 2026 22:15 PM

Bristol Travellers Get a Budapest Winter Route

Jun 26, 2026 22:02 PM

A New InterContinental Is Coming to the Algarve

Jun 25, 2026 21:49 PM
Eiffel Tower in Paris on a clear summer day

France and UK Heatwave Disrupts Major Tourist Sights

Jun 25, 2026 21:36 PM
Hand holding a British passport against a neutral background

UK Passport Rule Catches Dual Nationals

Jun 25, 2026 21:23 PM
Driver on a summer road trip viewed from inside a car

Hot Cars Could Cost UK Drivers £110

Jun 25, 2026 06:57 AM
Mallorca cove with clear turquoise water and rocky pine-covered cliffs

Bremen Puts 2027 Summer Flights on Sale

Jun 24, 2026 22:44 PM
easyJet aircraft tail at an airport gate

Cagliari Adds Bordeaux and Nice Flights

Jun 24, 2026 22:31 PM

Eurostar Heatwave Cancellations Continue Thursday

Jun 24, 2026 22:28 PM

Ryanair Passengers Miss Athens Flight After Border Delays

Jun 24, 2026 22:15 PM
Lightning strikes during a dark thunderstorm

Bristol Airport Hit by Storm Disruption

Jun 23, 2026 23:42 PM
Train stopped at a railway station

UK Rail Trips Hit by Heat Warning

Jun 23, 2026 23:39 PM