A wide view of the grand Potala Palace complex against a blue sky.

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The White Palace (Phodrang Karpo)

The White Palace served as the administrative center of Tibet and the winter residence for the Dalai Lamas.

Photo: tour listing on Viator

Located within the Potala Palace complex, the White Palace focuses on governance and daily life. It contains the personal quarters, reception rooms, and assembly halls used by leaders from 1649 until 1959.

The building's distinct exterior walls are painted using a traditional mixture of white lime, milk, honey, and sugar. Note that visitors are limited to one hour inside the main palace halls.

White stupas and buildings built into a rocky hillside under a partly cloudy sky.

Eastern Courtyard (Deyang Shar)

10 mins

This large, open square was historically used for ceremonies, festivals, and traditional Tibetan opera performances.

The magnificent Potala Palace nestled in the mountains with a blue sky.

Dalai Lamas' Living Quarters

15 mins

These sunlight-filled upper chambers served as the personal residence and reception rooms for the Dalai Lamas. The thick walls and large windows were designed to capture the sun's warmth at this high altitude.

Colorful prayer flags strung across a mountainous landscape with snow-capped peaks.

Main Assembly Hall

10 mins

This is the largest hall in the White Palace. It features the Dalai Lama's throne and intricate murals. Look closely at the walls detailing Tibetan history and religious folklore.