Back of the Potala Palace

The back of the Potala Palace is adjacent to Zongjiao Lukang Park, showcasing a tranquil and serene beauty different from the front. In Tibetan, "Zongjiao" means behind the palace fortress, and "Lukang" means the Lu God Hall. Inside the park, there is a body of water called Dragon King Pond, which originally formed during the time of the Fifth Dalai Lama as a result of water accumulation after soil was taken to build the Potala Palace. During the Sixth Dalai Lama's period, a pavilion was built on a small island in the pond following the mandala pattern of Tibetan Buddhist rituals, commonly known as the "Dragon King Pond Temple," connected to the outside by a five-arched stone bridge. Viewing the back of the Potala Palace from within the park is one of Lhasa’s famous sights. The clear water reflects the image of the Potala Palace, especially on sunny days when the blue sky and white clouds complement the palace’s red and white walls, creating a stunning scene. Ancient willows grow twisted and lush trees provide shade, adding a touch of natural color to the back of the Potala Palace. This is also a popular spot for local residents to relax and enjoy themselves, where people spin prayer wheels, take walks, and dance, full of lively atmosphere. Additionally, the park is divided into five areas including a folk activity zone and an ecological waterscape zone, allowing visitors to appreciate the beauty of the back of the Potala Palace from different perspectives. ⏳ Visiting time: Free admission, recommended visit duration 1 to 2 hours.