Historic Ensemble of the Potala Palace, Lhasa

Overview

The Potala Palace, located in Lhasa, Tibet Autonomous Region, China, is one of the most significant historical buildings in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It serves as the winter residence of the Dalai Lama since the 7th Dalai Lama moved there in the 17th century.

History

The Potala Palace was initially built in the 7th century by King Songtsen Gampo and later expanded by his wife, Wencheng Princess of China. However, it was largely rebuilt in the mid-17th century by the 5th Dalai Lama and his regent, Sönam Chödrag.

Architecture

The Potala Palace is a 13-story palace with over a thousand rooms covering an area of approximately 130,000 square meters. The White Palace on the front hill is where the Dalai Lamas lived and worked, while the Red Palace on the back hill houses various chapels and tombs of past Dalai Lamas.

Main Attractions

Golden Urn Chapel

Located in the heart of the Potala Palace, this chapel is the most sacred place for Tibetan Buddhism. The Golden Urn, made of gold and silver, is believed to contain the remains of the 5th to the 13th Dalai Lamas.

Tomb of the Fifth Dalai Lama

The tomb of the Fifth Dalai Lama is another significant attraction in the Potala Palace. It is decorated with beautiful murals and statues, depicting scenes from his life.

Chakpori Stupa

Located near the Potala Palace, this stupa houses the remains of the 10th Dalai Lama, who died in 1815. The stupa is a peaceful place to visit and offers stunning views of the city.

Visitor Information

Opening Hours

The Potala Palace is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM (last entry at 3:00 PM). It is closed on Mondays and during the Shoton Festival.

Admission Fee

The admission fee for foreign visitors is 300 Chinese Yuan (as of 2021).

Dress Code

Visitors are required to dress modestly, with no exposed shoulders or knees. You may be asked to wear a scarf or robe over your clothing before entering the palace.

Photography Rules

Photography is generally allowed inside the Potala Palace, but tripods and selfie sticks are not permitted. Some areas, such as the tombs of the Dalai Lamas, have strict no-photography rules.

Tips for Visitors

• Wear comfortable shoes as there are many stairs to climb within the palace.
• Bring water and snacks, as there are limited food options nearby.
• Respect local customs and traditions, especially when entering religious sites.
• Hire a guide to learn more about the history and significance of the Potala Palace.

How to Reach

The Potala Palace is located in Lhasa’s old city, near Barkhor Street. It can be reached by taxi or public bus from Lhasa Gonggar Airport or Lhasa Railway Station.