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Carving with Tibetan flavorDharma Cave and the Saint's Chapel in the middle of the Red Palace are the only two constructions preserved since the seventh century. Dharma Cave was the place where King Songtsen Gampo studied Buddhism. The statues of King Songtsen Gampo, Princess Wencheng, and Princess Bhrikuti were built in the seventh century. The Saint's Chapel on the third floor worships Chenrezi, the bodhisattva of compassion. The statue of Chenrezi is surrounded by statues of Tsong Khapa, Padmasambhava, the Fifth, Seventh, Eighth and Ninth Dalai Lamas.

The thirteenth Dalai Lama died in 1933, and people believed that he was as great as the Fifth Dalai Lama. So his stupa chapel to the west of the Great West Hall is only 0.86 meters (2.82 ft) lower than the Fifth Dalai Lama's. It was built in 1934, so it's the latest building in Potala Palace. Murals inside also illustrated the life of the Thirteenth Dalai Lama. The precious complete volumes of Kanjur have also been preserved in the chapel.

Complicated constructions of the palacePrayer Wheels

There are also many other constructions in Potala Palace which include: the School of Buddist Logic, the seminary, the printing House, gardens, courtyards and even the jail. For more than 300 years, Potala Palace has treasured many culture relics such as murals, stupas, statues, thangkas, and rare sutras. Potala Palace is indeed a must-see for both visitors and researchers.

Tips:
According to the local custom, you have to tour clockwise around; don't step on the doorsill; don't smoke in the halls; don't take photos without permission!
It is not easy for visitors to climb to the top building because of its height, so you'd better slow down. Because the halls are always chilly; you'd better take a coat while visiting!
Potala Palace is allowed less than 2300 tourists and pilgrims to enter each day. Therefore we suggest you prepare for a successful trip by purchasing tickets beforehand. Please note that when buying your tickets, you have to show your ID card or passport.

Admission Fee: CNY 100 (Nov. 1-Apr. 30)  
CNY 200 (May 1-Oct.31) including the visit of Zhol City (Snow City)
Opening Hours: 09:00 - 19:00
Recommended Time for a Visit: Two and a Half Hours



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Last updated: May 14, 2008