1. Historical Significance
Built in 641 CE by King Songtsen Gampo for Princess Wencheng, the palace was later expanded by the 5th Dalai Lama (1645–1694) as Tibet’s political-religious hub. It served as the winter residence of Dalai Lamas until the 14th Dalai Lama’s exile (1959).
2. Architectural Marvel
- Structure:
- 13-story complex (117m tall, 360m wide) with 1,000+ rooms, divided into:
- White Palace (Potrang Karpo): Administrative quarters and Dalai Lama’s living space.
- Red Palace (Potrang Marpo): Religious halls, 8 golden stupas (including the 5th Dalai Lama’s 14.8m-tall gold stupa), and 10,000+ Buddhist statues.
- Materials: Stone walls (3m thick), wood beams, and gold-gilded roofs for insulation and grandeur.
- 13-story complex (117m tall, 360m wide) with 1,000+ rooms, divided into:
3. Cultural & Religious Treasures
- Sacred Artifacts:
- Arya Lokeshvara statue (7th century) in Phakpa Lhakhang Chapel.
- 200,000+ statues, thangka paintings, and Buddhist scriptures.
- UNESCO Recognition (1994): Praised for its fusion of Tibetan-Han art and historical integrity.
4. Visitor Experience
- Best Time: May–October (mild weather; winter access may be restricted).
- Tickets: ¥200 (peak season), ¥100 (off-season); online booking required.
- Highlights:
- Great West Hall: Murals depicting Tibetan history.
- Dharma Cave: Oldest section with 7th-century relics.
- Golden Roofs: Panoramic views of Lhasa.
5. Preservation & Modern Role
- Restoration: China’s 2,000-million-dollar renovation (2000s) to protect murals and structures.
- Symbolism: A testament to Tibetan-Chinese unity and Buddhist pilgrimage site.
6. Travel Tips
- Altitude Sickness: Acclimatize in Lhasa (3,650m) first.
- Dress Code: Cover shoulders/knees; no photos in shrines.
- Nearby Sites: Jokhang Temple (UNESCO) and Norbulingka (summer palace).
