Norbulingka Palace Tourism

Norbulingka Palace, known as the 'Jewel Park', is a palace and surrounding park in Lhasa, Tibet Autonomous Region, China, which served as the traditional summer residence of the successive Dalai Lamas from the 1780s until the 14th Dalai Lama's exile in 1959. Situated just west of the Potala Palace, Norbulingka Palace covers an area of around 36 hectares and is considered a masterpiece of Tibetan art. The palace is set in a scenic park with a man-made lake and is a UNESCO World Heritage site, characterized by its beautiful gardens that blend the styles of Tibetan and Western horticulture. Norbulingka is an important cultural and historical site, featuring palaces, chapels, and other buildings. Visitors can explore the various rooms and halls, which house numerous Buddhist statues, murals, and other artifacts. The architecture is a representation of Tibetan and Buddhist influences, with intricate details and vibrant colors. Norbulingka is also a center for the Tibetan festival of Sho Dun, known as the 'Yogurt Festival', a time of celebration with traditional opera performances and festivities.