A view of the Potala Palace in Lhasa, southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region. (Photo: CFP)

Iconic tourist destinations in southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region, including the Potala Palace, are currently open to the public free of charge until March 15, 2026. The four-month long initiative is part of the region's winter tourism promotion, during which all A-level scenic spots in Xizang (excluding temples) are now free to the public. Travel agencies, tourist transport companies, and other related businesses will be eligible for preferential policies, consistent with the arrangements of previous years.