Potala Palace
The iconic 13-storey palace of the Dalai Lama — Lhasa's most magnificent landmark
Intro
The Potala Palace is the most iconic building in Tibet and one of the greatest architectural achievements in Asia. Rising 13 storeys and 117 metres above the Red Hill, it was the winter residence of the Dalai Lama from the 7th century until the 14th Dalai Lama fled to India in 1959. The palace contains over 1,000 rooms, 10,000 shrines, and approximately 200,000 statues, along with the tombs of eight Dalai Lamas. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Best Time to Visit
May-October for clearest weather. Morning visits for best light on the palace exterior.
Highlights
- The Red Palace at the upper levels contains the most sacred chapels and the golden chorten tombs of the Dalai Lamas. The White Palace served as the administrative and residential quarters. The views from the upper levels over Lhasa and the surrounding Tibetan Plateau are extraordinary.
Getting There
Central Lhasa. The main entrance stairway ascends from the south face. Allow 30 minutes to climb to the entrance at altitude.
Tickets & Entry
¥200 per person. Strict daily limits — must be booked in advance through a licensed Tibet travel agency.
Practical Tips
Daily visitor numbers are strictly limited — book tickets well in advance through a registered Tibet travel agency. At 3,700 metres altitude, take the climb slowly. Photography inside is restricted to certain areas. The visit typically takes 1.5-2 hours.
More in Lhasa
FAQ
Quick Facts
| Duration | 2-3 hours |
| Best time | May-October for clearest weather. Morning visits for best light on the palace exterior. |