Norbulingka

The Norbulingka or Jewel park is the summer palace for successive Dalai Lamas. It is located 1 kilometre west of the Potala Palace.

In the 18th Century, the 7th Dalai lama Kelsang Gyatso took a treatment bath in spring here and soon, a palace was built for him, which is called Kelsang Podrang. There is also a smaller palace can, Uyap Podrang, and this was used by the Dalai Lamas when they watched Tibetan Opera during Shoton (Yoghurt festival) and other events.

The second major palace is called Chensel Podrang, which was built during the 13th Dalia Lama, Thupten Gyatso.

Takten Minggyure Podrang is the newest palace built in the 1950s. Inside, an impressive wall painting shows a complete history of Tibet, main events, and figures in Tibetan History.

Besides, we can also see many types of trees and plants such as bamboos, pine trees and Juniper.

For the local people, Norbulingka is an important pilgrimage site and a place where they can learn about their culture. At the same time, it is also a great place for picnicking in summer and watch opera dance, especially during the Yogurt Festival.