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
Pokémon-themed airport atrium with Pikachu on a plane

Japan’s Pokémon Airport Gets Ready for Take-Off

May 18, 2026 23:03 PM
Baggage claim carousel with suitcases at an airport

Why Airport Luggage Wrapping Still Has Fans

May 17, 2026 20:57 PM

WestJet Brings Toronto Back to Glasgow

May 17, 2026 20:44 PM

Gatwick Gets Its First Ottawa Flights

May 17, 2026 20:31 PM
Aerial view of Tel Aviv and Jaffa coastline

Bratislava Gets a Direct Tel Aviv Link

May 17, 2026 20:28 PM
Alpine hotel surrounded by snowy Courchevel slopes

Courchevel Lines Up Two New Alpine Hotels

May 16, 2026 13:15 PM
airBaltic aircraft taking off against a blue sky

airBaltic Adds More Alpine Winter Flights

May 16, 2026 13:02 PM
TAP Air Portugal aircraft on an airport runway

TAP Air Gives Travellers Free Date Changes

May 16, 2026 12:59 PM
Seattle waterfront skyline with the Great Wheel

Seattle Plans a Floating World Cup Party

May 15, 2026 18:36 PM

Dubai Opens a New Route to Libya

May 15, 2026 18:23 PM

Vienna Gets a Direct Cluj Link

May 15, 2026 18:17 PM
easyJet aircraft landing near a city skyline

easyJet Opens Spring 2027 Flights Early

May 15, 2026 18:04 PM
British passport held in a person’s hand

Passport Rules Could Catch Out Summer Travellers

May 15, 2026 17:51 PM
Mountain lake in Banff National Park

Canada Makes National Parks Free This Summer

May 15, 2026 17:38 PM
Passengers seated inside an aircraft cabin

Summer Airfares Send Mixed Signals

May 14, 2026 22:45 PM

Ryanair Pulls Its Thessaloniki Winter Base

May 14, 2026 22:32 PM

Qatar Airways Restores Abu Dhabi Flights

May 14, 2026 22:29 PM
Slovak Lines bus outside Bratislava Airport

Vienna Gets a Direct Bratislava Airport Bus

May 14, 2026 22:16 PM
Passengers boarding a Ryanair aircraft

Ryanair Tightens Its Bag Checks Again

May 14, 2026 22:03 PM
Finnair aircraft on an airport runway

Finnair Adds More Summer Routes From Helsinki

May 14, 2026 21:57 PM
Qatar Airways aircraft preparing to land

Qatar Airways Restores Helsinki and Haneda Flights

May 14, 2026 21:44 PM
Red train travelling through Alpine mountains

EU Plans One-Ticket Rail Trips

May 14, 2026 21:31 PM

Birmingham Airport Gets More Lounge Choice

May 13, 2026 12:18 PM

Nantes Adds Brussels and Essaouira Flights

May 13, 2026 12:05 PM
Milan Cathedral at sunset

JetBlue Lands Its First Italy Route

May 13, 2026 11:52 AM
Lumo train travelling on railway tracks

Cheap Lumo Trains Head for Stirling

May 13, 2026 11:49 AM