Potala Palace

1. Introduction to the scenic spot

The Potala Palace, located on the Lhasa Maburi Mountain in Xizang, is the highest ancient palace group in the world and the holy land of Tibetan Buddhism. Founded in the 7th century AD, after more than 1300 years of wind and rain, it was built by Songtsen Gampo to marry Princess Wencheng. The palace is built against the mountains, with overlapping buildings and a majestic atmosphere. It is the culmination of Tibetan style ancient architectural art and is known as the "pearl on the roof of the world". It was listed as a world cultural heritage in 1994 and is a must visit place to learn about Xizang's history, culture and religion.

2. Introduction to scenic spots within the scenic area

White House: The main building of the Potala Palace, which has served as the residence and administrative center for the successive Dalai Lamas, is divided into the East and West Sun Halls.

Red Palace: Located above the White House, it is the core area of religious activities and houses the stupas of the Dalai Lamas and a large number of precious cultural relics.

Golden roof: The gilded decoration on the top of the palace, shining brightly in the sunlight, is the iconic landscape of the Potala Palace.

Deyang Building: East Courtyard, equipped with the beds of successive Dalai Lamas and gifts exchanged between successive Dalai Lamas and Qing emperors.

3. Scenic spot tour route

Recommended route: Enter from the main entrance (south entrance) and visit the East and West Sun Halls of the White House in sequence. Pass through the Tancheng Hall to the Red Palace, visit the Lingta Hall and Buddhist Hall of the Dalai Lama throughout history, and finally come to Jinding to overlook the panoramic view of Lhasa. The whole process takes about 2-3 hours. It is recommended to book a tour guide or rent a voice guide in advance.

4. Best viewing season/not recommended travel season

Best season: May to October, with mild climate and relatively high oxygen content, suitable for tourism. September and October are autumn, with blue skies and charming scenery.

Not recommended season: November to April of the following year, with low temperatures and thin oxygen, some attractions may be closed due to snow and road closures.

5. Scenic Area Transportation

Public transportation: In Lhasa, you can take bus routes 1, 12, 17, etc. to "Labai Station" or "Yaowangshan Farmers' Market Station", which is within walking distance. The cost is about 1-2 yuan.

Private car: Navigate to "Potala Palace Square", there is a parking lot nearby, and the parking fee is about 10-20 yuan/hour.

Distance:

Lhasa Railway Station (high-speed rail): about 6 kilometers, taking a taxi for about 20 minutes, and the cost is about 20 yuan.

Lhasa Gongga Airport: About 60 kilometers. After the airport bus arrives in Lhasa city, transfer to a bus or taxi. The whole journey takes about 1.5 hours and costs about 50 yuan (bus)+taxi fare.

6. Scenic spot tickets and other fees

Admission: 200 yuan/person during peak season (May 1st to October 31st), 100 yuan/person during off-season (November 1st to April 30th of the following year). You need to make an appointment on the official website or official WeChat official account in advance.

Other paid items:

Tour guide explanation: Depending on the number of people and the duration of the explanation, the fee is approximately 100-300 yuan per group.

Voice guide: Rent is approximately 30 yuan per unit.

7. Special precautions for scenic spots

Opening hours: 9:00-16:00 (latest admission 15:00), please pay attention to the official announcement for adjustments.

Dress code: Shorts, short skirts, and slippers are prohibited from entering.

Prohibited items: lighters, flammable and explosive materials, etc.

Luggage storage: There is a storage service point near the entrance of the scenic area, and the cost is about 10-20 yuan/piece.

Respect customs: Please take off your hat when entering the hall, do not touch cultural relics, and follow the etiquette of Buddhist places.