Practical travel information on Money and costs in Lhasa

Money & costs

Money

Bank of China branch (Zhongguo Yinhang; Beijing Donglu; 9am-5pm Mon-Fri, 10.30am-3.30pm Sat & Sun) The most conveniently located bank changes cash and travellers cheques without fuss. It can’t give a cash advance on a credit card but the ATMs normally work. It’s between the Banak Shol and Kirey hotels.

Bank of China branch (Zhongguo Yinhang; Beijing Xilu; 9am-5pm Mon-Fri, 10.30am-3.30pm Sat & Sun) Opposite the Lhasa Hotel.

Bank of China main office (Zhongguo Yinhang; Linkuo Xilu; 9am-6.30pm Mon-Fri, 10am-4pm Sat & Sun) West of the Potala. This is the place for credit-card advances; there’s a 3% commission and the maximum withdrawal is Y2000 per transaction. This is also the place to arrange a bank transfer. There are ATMs inside and outside the building (the latter open 24 hours). Take a number as you walk in the door and expect to wait for ages.