I originally thought my agency booked us onto the one located at Bakhor Street (that one is located at a fantastic location, though it does look rather dated though!). But ours is along a main street, about 10 min, walk to Bakhor Street.

The hotel is rather run down, very basic and dusty. Breakfast was so-so, and overall, it was a very mediocre hotel. I was rather disappointed as we had earlier stayed at the Yabshi Phunkhang and THAT was a fantastic hotel. This was a "major downgrade" and I as surprised that the agency recommended that this is "almost as good". I am SURE there must be better ones around Lhasa, and felt cheated. We upgraded to The Four Points after just 1 night here.

I would recommend that you do your own research and not trust the agencies so much.

If you expect just a basic hotel with decent amenities, this hotel might be OK. But we had slightly higher expectation, and that is why I am only giving it a 2 star rating.

We went to this hotel as part of a tour option. Although the place is a little run down, it is a welcome haven from the cold. Heaters are great!

The breakfast is basic but lovingly made! Its a very quirky place that lent itself to the feel of the trip!

Himalayan leaders booked this hotel... On arrival we had to ask to clean the carpet again and again... Very dusty rooms, old furniture, nice bathroom. Breakfast is awfull - you can't eat eggs and toast all mornings... After 2 nights we changed hotel. For the prices shown in the lobby you can book in october a 4* instead. Or look for a nice boutique hotel. Don't trust your agency too much in hotel choice...

Hotel Mandala was our accomodation as part of our tour through Tibet. The hotel was in a great spot to see the many palaces, temples, and monestaries in Lhasa. Some were a short walking distance away, while others were a short taxi ride.

Positives:
+ Clean, comfortable rooms and was a pleasant room with views of the mountains and the streets of Lhasa.
+ Staff were helpful, and it was great to see them warm-up every morning with a short 15 minute exercise program in the hotel parking area.
+ Kettle, cups, and tea.
+ Breakfast included.
+ Internet facilities downstairs in the lobby.
+ Small groccery shops, restaurants and Jokhang Temple close-by.

Negatives:
- Our room over-looked a main street, so it was very noisy and car-horns all night.
- Our room shower leaked all over the bathroom floor.
- Blowdryer in our room did not work.
- There was no air conditioner or heater, which would have been nice during the colder mornings.