Explore
The external spaces around the Potala Palace provide panoramic views and important spiritual walking routes.
While visitors spend exactly one hour inside the palace walls, the exterior grounds offer unlimited time for photography. The surrounding public squares, parks, and walking paths show how the palace sits in the center of modern Lhasa.
20 minsIconic views
This massive public square sits directly south of the palace. It gives you unobstructed views of the entire 1,300-year-old structure perched on Red Hill. Visit the square at night to see the palace walls brightly floodlit.
45 minsWalk clockwise
The Kora is a sacred circumambulation path that surrounds the base of the palace. It features hundreds of traditional prayer wheels lining the route. Always walk clockwise to join local Tibetan pilgrims practicing their spiritual devotion.
30 minsMorning light
This quiet park sits directly behind the palace complex. A large lake in the center of the park reflects the towering walls above. Stop here in the morning for the best light to capture the water reflection.
