Potala Palace, Buddhist palace in Lhasa District, China.
Description
Potala Palace is a Buddhist palace in Lhasa District, China, with red and white painted sections stretching 400 meters (1312 feet) in length. The complex rises through multiple terraces and features thick stone walls, over 1,000 rooms, and gilded roofs that shine in the sunlight.
History
Construction began in 637 under King Songtsen Gampo, but most of the current structure was built in the 17th century under the Fifth Dalai Lama. The building served as both winter residence and political center until 1959.
Culture
The name derives from Mount Potalaka, the home of the deity Avalokiteshvara, and the building embodies this spiritual connection through its position high above the city. Pilgrims walk clockwise around the base, spinning the red prayer wheels while chanting mantras.
Practical
Access involves steep stairs and narrow passages, so good footwear is necessary and visitors should prepare for the thin mountain air. Guided tours are mandatory and visits typically last about one hour with limited daily entry.
Did you know?
The structure contains eight decorated tombs of former Dalai Lamas, the most notable being 14 meters (46 feet) high and covered with 3,700 kilograms (8,150 pounds) of gold. These burial sites are located in the red section and can be viewed during guided tours.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (Lhasa District).
Castles and palaces from different periods and regions reveal how architecture adapted to military needs, royal ambitions, or religious purposes. Some were built as fortresses, others served as residences or symbols of power. Construction styles range from medieval defenses to grand estates of later...
Ancient temples around the world reveal the building skill and cultural values of past civilizations. From Cambodia to Mexico, these structures show us how ancient peoples practiced religion, built with available materials, and organized their societies. Sites across Asia, Europe and America display...
Jokhang
1.5 km
Ramoche Temple
1.4 km
Monument to the Peaceful Liberation of Tibet
526 m
Chokpori
888 m
Kundeling Monastery
1 km
Mentsikhang
1.1 km
Trode Khangsar
1.5 kmTengyeling
1.1 km
Tsomon Ling
1.3 km
Shide Dratsang
1.1 km
Samdrup Podrang
1.6 kmJebumgang Lhakhang
1.4 kmSouth-western rigs gsum lha khang
1.3 kmLhasa Tsuglagkhang
1.5 km
Marpo Ri
44 m高原之宝
755 m西藏自治区群众艺术馆
1.3 kmDropenling
1.3 kmStatue, Work of art
1.4 kmPotala Palace Viewpoint
467 mJokhang Monastery
1.5 km西藏和平解放纪念碑
534 m唐蕃会盟碑
1.5 km劝人恤出痘碑
1.5 km无字碑
1.5 km御制平定西藏碑
279 m御制十全记碑
269 mDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes