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A city of southwest
China, the capital of Xizang (Tibet). Because of its remoteness and exclusivity as the
center of Tibetan Buddhism, Lhasa was long closed to foreign visitors and known as
"the Forbidden City." Population, 105,897. Lake Yamdrok (jade)
The beautiful Lake Yamdrok (jade) is located at the south of Lhasa. It has an area of 800
square km with a height of 4,400 meter above the sea level. According to folklore, it is
the mirage of a heavenly girl. The only female tulku/incarnate lama/Living Buddha of
Tibet is the Abbot of the Sam-ding Temple (White Hat) nearby.
Potala Palace
Built in the 7th century, the Potala palace is a renowned complex of Chinese Palatial
architecture and a crystallization of classical Tibetan architecture, and it deserves its
Position as part and parcel of the world's cultural heritage. Potala Palace was built by
King Srong-tsan-gam-po and Princess Wen-Cheng in the Seventh Century.
It spreads across an area of 410,000 square meters. Beginning from the fifth Dalai
Lama, the Potala has been a venue for major religious and political ceremonies. It is the
winter palace of the Dalai Lamas. The original palace was largely destroyed in the
medieval era. This fabulous palace consisted of two parts: the White Palace and the Red
Palace. It is like the `Mona Lisa' who always looks toward you at all angles.
Jokhang Monastery
The Jokhang Monastery, built in the year 647, is the earliest wood-and-masonry structure
still existing in Tibet. It is said that the plans of the monastery were drawn by Princess
Wencheng of the Tang Dynasty. The inscribed tablets as well as the willow trees planted by
Princess Wencheng in the year 823 in front of the monastery are historical evidence of the
union of the Han and Tibetan peoples over the centuries.
Norpulingkha
The Norpulingkha ("garden of treasures") is situated in the western suburbs of
Lhasa. It has served as the summer palace for Dalai Lamas.
Barkhor Street
The traditional lifestyle and appearance of Lhasa's Old City district are well preserved
in Barkhor Street. Pilgrims turn their prayer-wheels on the street, and visitors can get
everything Tibetan they could hope for.
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