Potala Palace

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Spot Introduction

The Potala Palace, originally built during the Tubo Dynasty in the 7th century by Songtsen Gampo to welcome Princess Wencheng, stands as the world’s highest and largest palace-style complex. It embodies the unity of politics and religion in Tibet, witnessing over 1300 years of historical transformations. In 1994, the Potala Palace was inscribed on the World Cultural Heritage List.

Nestled into the mountainside, the entire complex rises to a height of 117 meters and stretches 360 meters from east to west. It consists of the White Palace, the Red Palace, and auxiliary buildings. The White Palace serves as the winter palace for the Dalai Lama and the venue for administrative tasks, while the Red Palace is the religious hub, housing the stupas of past Dalai Lamas. With 13 stories, over 1000 rooms, and a total area of 130,000 square meters, it represents the pinnacle of Tibetan architectural art.

Beyond its architectural wonders, the Potala Palace is a treasure trove of Tibetan culture. It holds numerous invaluable artifacts, including Buddhist statues, Thangka paintings, scriptures, ritual implements, and gold and silver vessels. The mural paintings, covering a total area of 2500 square meters, vividly depict Tibetan history, religion, and culture.

As a sacred site of Tibetan Buddhism, the Potala Palace attracts millions of pilgrims and tourists annually. Early mornings witness devotees circling the palace walls with prayer wheels and chanting sutras, creating a unique religious spectacle. During the Tibetan New Year, the palace hosts grand religious ceremonies, showcasing the distinctive charm of Tibetan Buddhism.

The architectural design of the Potala Palace reflects the ingenuity of the Tibetan people. Its unique earth-wood-stone structure exhibits excellent earthquake resistance, allowing it to stand tall through the ages.

Spot Introduction

The ingenious design of the ventilation, lighting, and drainage systems within the palace takes full account of the climatic characteristics of the plateau, showcasing the exceptional talents of ancient Tibetan architects.

Must-Visit Attractions

  1. White Palace

    • Winter Palace of the Dalai Lama
    • Reception Hall
    • Suggested visiting time: 60 minutes

  2. Red Palace

    • Stupas of various Dalai Lamas
    • Buddhist Prayer Hall
    • Suggested visiting time: 90 minutes

  3. Eastern Palace Garden

    • Viewing Platform
    • Historical Sites
    • Suggested visiting time: 30 minutes

  4. Potala Palace Square

    • Best spot for viewing
    • Cultural Activities
    • Suggested visiting time: 30 minutes

Visiting Suggestions

  1. Optimal Touring Route

    • Square → White Palace
    • Red Palace → Eastern Garden
    • Sequential visiting is recommended

  2. Visiting Schedule

    • Morning reservations
    • Limited-time visits
    • Avoid peak hours

  3. Practical Tips

    • Make reservations ahead of time
    • Bring ID
    • Acclimate to the high altitude

Transportation Guide

  • Airplane: Lhasa Gonggar Airport
  • Train: Lhasa Station
  • Bus: Routes 1, 2, 3
  • Walking: Accessible from the city center
  1. Sweet Tea House
  2. Tibetan Noodles
  3. Buttered Tea
  4. Highland Barley Tsampa

Special Reminders

  1. Acclimate to the high altitude
  2. Make reservations ahead of time
  3. No photography allowed
  4. Dress appropriately
  5. Bring an oxygen tank
  6. Sunscreen is essential
  7. Respect beliefs
  8. Adhere to time limits.