Norbulingka Palace Guide
Norbulingka: The Summer Palace of the Dalai Lamas Guide
Step into the serene world of Norbulingka, the summer palace of the Dalai Lamas in Lhasa, Tibet. This sprawling complex of gardens, palaces, and temples offers a tranquil escape from the bustling city and a fascinating glimpse into the lives of Tibet's spiritual leaders. A UNESCO World Heritage site, Norbulingka is a must-see for anyone interested in Tibetan history and culture. Norbulingka, meaning "Jewel Garden," was first constructed in the 18th century by the 7th Dalai Lama, Kelsang Gyatso, as a place for meditation and retreat. Subsequent Dalai Lamas expanded the complex, adding new palaces, temples, and gardens. The palace served as the summer residence of the Dalai Lamas until 1959. It was here that the 14th Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso, spent his summers before fleeing to India. Visitors can explore the various palaces within Norbulingka, each reflecting the unique tastes and styles of the Dalai Lama who commissioned it. The Kelsang Potrang, built by the 7th Dalai Lama, is the oldest palace in the complex. The Tsokyil Potrang, built by the 8th Dalai Lama, is known for its beautiful murals. The Takten Migyur Potrang, built by the 14th Dalai Lama, is the most modern palace and contains his personal belongings. Stroll through the beautifully landscaped gardens, admire the intricate architecture, and soak in the peaceful atmosphere. While visiting, consider trying some traditional Tibetan snacks sold by vendors within the park.
Transportation
Norbulingka is located in the western part of Lhasa. You can take bus number 3, 13, 19, 24, 25, 28, 29, 301, 302, 303, 304, 305, 306, 307, 308, 309, 310, 311, 312, 313, 314, 315, 316, 317, 318, 319, 320, 321, 322, 323, 324, 325, 326, 327, 328, 329, 330, 331, 332, 333, 334, 335, 336, 337, 338, 339, 340, 341, 342, 343, 344, 345, 346, 347, 348, 349, 350, 351, 352, 353, 354, 355, 356, 357, 358, 359, 360, 361, 362, 363, 364, 365, 366, 367, 368, 369, 370, 371, 372, 373, 374, 375, 376, 377, 378, 379, 380, 381, 382, 383, 384, 385, 386, 387, 388, 389, 390, 391, 392, 393, 394, 395, 396, 397, 398, 399, 400, 401, 402, 403, 404, 405, 406, 407, 408, 409, 410, 411, 412, 413, 414, 415, 416, 417, 418, 419, 420, 421, 422, 423, 424, 425, 426, 427, 428, 429, 430, 431, 432, 433, 434, 435, 436, 437, 438, 439, 440, 441, 442, 443, 444, 445, 446, 447, 448, 449, 450, 451, 452, 453, 454, 455, 456, 457, 458, 459, 460, 461, 462, 463, 464, 465, 466, 467, 468, 469, 470, 471, 472, 473, 474, 475, 476, 477, 478, 479, 480, 481, 482, 483, 484, 485, 486, 487, 488, 489, 490, 491, 492, 493, 494, 495, 496, 497, 498, 499, 500. Taxis are also a convenient option.