Potala Palace

National Geographic picked in 2009

Country : Tibet, China

Currency : Yuan

Big Mac Index : 3.55

Travel Safety : Exercise a high degree of caution

Potala Palace, located in Lhasa, Tibet, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-see destination for any traveler visiting the region. The palace, which was the chief residence of the Dalai Lama until the 14th Dalai Lama fled to India during the 1959 Tibetan uprising, is a stunning example of traditional Tibetan architecture and offers visitors a glimpse into the rich cultural and religious history of Tibet. Getting There: The Potala Palace can be reached by taking a flight to Lhasa Gonggar Airport and then taking a bus or taxi to the palace. It is also possible to take a train to Lhasa and then make the journey to the palace by bus or taxi. Visitors should note that the altitude in Lhasa is over 3,500 meters, so it is important to acclimatize before visiting the palace. Things to See and Do: The Potala Palace is made up of two main sections, the White Palace and the Red Palace. The White Palace was used for administrative purposes and contains numerous chapels and halls. The Red Palace, which was the residence of the Dalai Lama, is the more impressive of the two and contains the main assembly hall, the golden tomb of the 8th Dalai Lama, and many beautiful murals and statues. Getting Around: The palace is quite large, so it is recommended to wear comfortable shoes and take your time exploring. Visitors are not permitted to take photographs inside the palace, but there are plenty of opportunities to take photos of the palace and its surroundings from outside. When to Visit: The best time to visit Potala Palace is from April to October. During the winter months, the palace is often closed due to snow and cold weather. Tips: - Be sure to wear comfortable shoes as the palace is quite large and there is a lot of walking involved. - Be respectful of the palace's religious significance and dress modestly. - The palace is quite high up in altitude, so take time to acclimatize before visiting. - Photography is not allowed inside the palace, so be sure to take your photos from outside. Overall, Potala Palace is an awe-inspiring destination that offers visitors a chance to step back in time and experience the rich culture and history of Tibet. Plan your trip carefully and make the most of your visit to this incredible palace.

Photo - By Carlos Delgado - Wikipedia