布达拉宫
Potala Palace
Rising above Marpo Ri, the Potala is a vast palace-fortress whose White and Red Palaces preserve layers of Tibetan political, religious and artistic history. Its stairways, chapels, murals, timber structures and ritual objects are part of a fragile heritage system rather than a theatrical set. Visits follow a controlled one-way route with limited time and substantial climbing, so the exterior viewpoints and UNESCO context are as important as rushing through interiors.
Opening hours
Getting there
Use public transport or a licensed taxi to the designated entrance area; parking and security boundaries can change. Allow extra time for identity checks without blocking pavement or pilgrimage movement.
Practical notes
Reserve only through current official channels with the same identity document used on arrival. Climb slowly, do not backtrack, obey photography restrictions, remove hats where directed and never touch murals or ritual objects.