The Norbu Linka Palace

The Norbu Linka Palace is situated m the western suburb of Lhasa. The Seventh Dalai Lama built it as his Summer Palace in the 1740s. Since then the Dalai Lamas had made it a point to move to live in the Norbu Linka during the fourth to ninth month according to the Tibetan calendar, where they handled political and religious affairs.

"Norbu" means treasures, while "Linka" means a place of scenic beauty. The palace occupies 36 hectares of land and consists of 300 or so buildings that belong to three groups. Each group consists of a pals proper, a front court, and a tree grove. the Norbu Linka is entirely tucked away in the midst of lush trees and blooming flowers.

The palaces look solemn and original, and the pavilions, terraces, and pools are laid out to contribute to the tranquility of the place. Deer, leopards and other precious animals are raised behind the palace walls. Today, Norbu Lmka has become a public park, and duly protected as a key cultural heritage.