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
Yellow car parked on a Salzburg street

Salzburg Puts Tourist Cars on Pause

Jul 7, 2026 22:42 PM
Olympia London redevelopment with Hyatt Regency hotel

Sleep Next Door to Olympia’s Big Shows

Jul 7, 2026 21:57 PM

Tiny Passport Rip Stops Lanzarote Holiday

Jul 7, 2026 21:44 PM

Vilnius Has a Table in the Sky

Jul 7, 2026 21:31 PM
Stansted Express train at a station platform

Stansted Express Tests Night Trains

Jul 7, 2026 21:29 PM
Coastal village on Terceira Island in the Azores

Porto Gets New Atlantic Reach

Jul 7, 2026 21:16 PM
KLM aircraft departing on a scheduled flight

KLM Expands Capacity on Gdańsk to Amsterdam Flights

Jul 6, 2026 23:43 PM
Air Canada aircraft on the airport tarmac

Berlin Gets a Montréal Shortcut

Jul 5, 2026 20:47 PM
Forest and volcanic landscape in the Canary Islands

Canary Islands Test Tourist Donations

Jul 5, 2026 20:34 PM

easyJet Brings Budapest Back to Belfast

Jul 5, 2026 20:21 PM

Sardinia Blocks Tavolara Luxury Glamping Plan

Jul 5, 2026 20:18 PM
Apple AirTag box held in hand

AirTags Are Helping Lost Bags Come Back

Jul 5, 2026 20:05 PM
Wizz Air aircraft landing

Wrocław Gets Winter Sun and Ski Links

Jul 4, 2026 23:52 PM
Passenger at airport security screening

Vienna Airport Eases Bag Screening Rules

Jul 3, 2026 22:49 PM
Wildfire burning across hills at sunset

France Fires Disrupt Summer Trips

Jul 3, 2026 22:06 PM

Cyprus Hotels Face Licence Warning

Jul 3, 2026 21:53 PM

Cheap July Flights Out of East Midlands

Jul 3, 2026 21:47 PM
Ryanair aircraft on an airport apron

Ryanair Warns Austria After Graz Base Closure

Jul 3, 2026 21:34 PM
Dior spa treatment room at Grand Hotel Timeo

New Luxury Stays Are Coming to Italy

Jul 3, 2026 21:21 PM
Beachfront area with cabanas on Corfu’s northern coast

Meliá Picks Corfu for Its Next Luxury Stay

Jul 1, 2026 21:08 PM
Pool area at Mamula Island by Banyan Tree

Montenegro Turns Fort Mamula into a Hotel

Jul 1, 2026 02:15 AM
ScotRail train at a Glasgow station platform

ScotRail Expands Train Services for Glasgow Summer Sessions Concerts

Jun 30, 2026 22:52 PM

North London Bus Strike Ballot Could Disrupt Summer Travel

Jun 30, 2026 22:29 PM

Car Hire Extras Still Catch Travellers Out

Jun 30, 2026 21:26 PM
Close-up rendering of Sunborn yacht hotel entrance

A New Yacht Hotel Is Coming to London

Jun 30, 2026 21:13 PM
Passenger waiting with luggage in an airport terminal

Low-Cost Gatwick Asia Link Is Delayed

Jun 30, 2026 20:57 PM