龍王潭
1 / 10

Lukhang Temple

4.5
·24 reviews·La Sa Shi, China

A tranquil oasis behind the Potala Palace, offering serene lake views, unique spiritual murals, and a glimpse into local Tibetan life.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Afternoons

Locals gather for relaxation

CrowdMedium
Loading map...
龍王潭

Lukhang Temple

Best Time

Afternoons

Locals gather for relaxation

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A tranquil oasis behind the Potala Palace, offering serene lake views, unique spiritual murals, and a glimpse into local Tibetan life.

4.5
(24 reviews)

"Awesome view of Potala Palace and a lovely place for relaxation."

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 Capture the Views

The Potala Palace views from the park are stunning. Don't forget your camera!

🚶‍♀️ Stroll Through the Park

Enjoy a leisurely walk around the lake and observe local life. It's a great spot for relaxation.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Lukhang Temple Murals

Lukhang Temple Murals

Inside the temple

Intricate murals depicting yogic movements and spiritual teachings, offering a glimpse into Tibetan Buddhist practices.

Potala Palace Views

Potala Palace Views

From the park and lake

Breathtaking, unobstructed views of the majestic Potala Palace across the serene lake.

Local Relaxation Spot

Local Relaxation Spot

The surrounding park

Experience authentic Tibetan life as locals gather for exercise, conversation, and relaxation in this beautiful park.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

A Serene Escape Near the Potala

Discover the Lukhang Temple, a hidden gem offering tranquility and stunning Potala Palace views. It's a peaceful retreat for locals and visitors alike, perfect for a relaxing afternoon away from the crowds.

Respectful Exploration

Remember the Lukhang Temple is a sacred site. Dress modestly and be mindful of local customs. It's a place for quiet contemplation and appreciating Tibetan culture.

Best Times

When
Afternoons
Why
Locals gather for relaxation
Crowd
Medium
When
Early mornings
Why
Peaceful and fewer crowds
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

you look tasty👻#mofavv #linkclick #linkclickedit #donghua #donhuaedit #linkclickdonghua #shiguangdailiren #timeagent #timeagentedit #luguang #luguangedit #chengxiaoshi #chengxiaoshiedit #donghuaedit #shiguang #shiguangdailirenedit #shiguangedit #chinesedrama #chinesebromance #qiaoling #qiaolingedit #агентвремени #时光代理人 #shiguangdailiren #shiguangdailirenedit #shiguangdailiren2 #season3 #vein #vein...
@mofavv
644.4K likes • 3.3M views

📸 Capture the Views

The Potala Palace views from the park are stunning. Don't forget your camera! Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Stroll Through the Park

Enjoy a leisurely walk around the lake and observe local life. It's a great spot for relaxation. Reddit

silliest move from cxs 👍 || #linkclick #linkclickedit #donghua #linkclickdonghua #shiguangdailiren #fyp #timeagent #时光代理人 #chengxiaoshi #shiguangdailirenedit #shiguang #chinesebromance #chinesedrama #viral #chengxiaoshiedit #chengxiaoshilinkclick #luguang #luguangedit #luguanglinkclick #luguangxchengxiaoshi
@bethaepp
273.8K likes • 1.8M views
@tibetinhistory _ 23 breath-linked yogic movements illustrated on the walls of the Lukhang, a private meditation and retreat chamber used by the Dalai Lamas. _ Lukhang (Temple to the Serpent Spirits) is dedicated to the naga (serpent) spirits of the lake and was built on a small island in the lake behind the Potala Palace by the Regent Sangye Gyatso and the Sixth Dalai Lama. _ #dalailama #yoga #yo...
tibetinhistory
1.5K likes • 24.4K views

🧘‍♀️ Appreciate the Art

The temple's interior features unique murals. Take your time to admire the detailed artwork. TikTok

💧 Clean Lake Waters

Notice the surprisingly clean lake water, a rarity in many urban areas. Reddit

The Lukhang Temple of Tibet life size murals are now on display at Quiet Mind Retreat San Diego. These will be on display as there will be raising funds to build a replica of the Dalai Lama’s Secret Temple here in the foothills of San Diego, as a gift to His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, who never was able to visit the temple in this current lifetime due to escaping Tibet during the Chinese occup...
sarahverizzo
114 likes • 4.9K views

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Capture the Views

The Potala Palace views from the park are stunning. Don't forget your camera! Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Stroll Through the Park

Enjoy a leisurely walk around the lake and observe local life. It's a great spot for relaxation. Reddit

🧘‍♀️ Appreciate the Art

The temple's interior features unique murals. Take your time to admire the detailed artwork. TikTok

💧 Clean Lake Waters

Notice the surprisingly clean lake water, a rarity in many urban areas. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(24 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Lukhang Temple for its serene atmosphere, beautiful Potala Palace views, and the authentic local experience it offers. It's a peaceful escape where you can relax, observe daily life, and appreciate unique Tibetan art. Some note that while the park is well-maintained, the temple itself is a more intimate experience.

"Beautiful park for relaxation beside Potala Palace. Park has wash rooms and restaurants for having lunch and snacks and tea. Tibetan people took physical exercise and passed good times here. Play ground with water tubes for children. Boat ride also available here. Overall, it's good for everyone."

Dr P K Baidya Biplob

"It has an awesome view of Potala Palace. Lukhang Temple itself is also lovely."

Jun Deng

"This park is filled with ordinary Tibetans who use the park to relax and talk together. Here they can usually be allowed to side together without being chased away. There is a super nice view of the palace. The park is definitely worth a visit."

Carl Nielsen

What People Like

Stunning Potala Palace views
Peaceful local atmosphere
Clean lake and park

What People Dislike

Temple interior can be small

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Lukhang Temple is located just behind the Potala Palace. You can easily walk there from the palace grounds. Follow the signs for the park and the temple.

While there might be parking options near the Potala Palace, it's best to explore on foot once you're in the vicinity of Lukhang Temple, as it's a pedestrian-friendly area.

Yes, you can take a taxi to the general area of the Potala Palace, and then it's a short walk to Lukhang Temple. Taxis are readily available in Lhasa.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to the park surrounding Lukhang Temple usually requires a small fee. The temple itself may have separate admission or be included with the park entry. It's advisable to check current pricing upon arrival.

The park and temple generally follow daylight hours. It's best to visit during the day to fully appreciate the surroundings and artwork. Specific hours can vary, so confirm locally.

The park is generally accessible, but the temple interior might involve stairs. Visitors are encouraged to be mindful of the terrain and any physical limitations.

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

The park offers a relaxing environment for strolls, enjoying Potala Palace views, and observing local Tibetan life. You can also find restrooms and snack vendors. Reddit

Yes, the park has restaurants and tea houses where you can enjoy lunch or snacks. It's a pleasant spot to refuel during your visit. Reddit

Absolutely! The iconic views of the Potala Palace from the park are a photographer's dream. The temple's architecture and the surrounding nature also offer great photo opportunities. Reddit

The Lukhang, meaning 'Temple to the Serpent Spirits,' is dedicated to the naga spirits of the lake. It was historically a private meditation and retreat chamber for the Dalai Lamas. TikTok

Boat rides on the lake are often available, offering a different perspective of the Potala Palace and the surrounding scenery. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Lukhang Temple park offers a pleasant outing for families. Children can enjoy the open spaces for running around, and the playground with water tubes provides entertainment. Reddit The boat rides on the lake can also be a fun activity for younger visitors. While the temple's murals are more for adult appreciation, the overall relaxed atmosphere of the park makes it a good spot for a family picnic or a leisurely stroll. Remember to bring snacks and drinks, though some vendors are available. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, Lukhang Temple is a dream location. The primary draw is the iconic Potala Palace view across the lake, offering a clear, unobstructed panorama that's perfect for capturing stunning shots, especially during golden hour. Reddit Beyond the palace, the temple's unique architecture and the surrounding natural beauty provide ample opportunities for creative compositions. The intricate details of the interior murals also present a fascinating subject for close-up photography, offering a glimpse into Tibetan spiritual art. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Sacred Art of the Lukhang Murals

The interior walls of the Lukhang Temple are adorned with remarkable murals that are a significant draw for visitors interested in Tibetan Buddhism and art. These detailed illustrations are not merely decorative; they depict the 23 breath-linked yogic movements central to certain Tibetan spiritual practices. These murals offer a rare visual guide to esoteric teachings, providing insights into the meditative and physical disciplines cultivated by practitioners. The artistry itself is intricate, showcasing vibrant colors and precise linework that have endured over time. TikTok

These sacred artworks are a testament to the temple's historical role as a private retreat for the Dalai Lamas. The visual narrative within the temple walls serves as a profound educational tool, illustrating complex philosophical concepts and practices in an accessible format. For those seeking a deeper understanding of Tibetan spirituality beyond the grand architecture of the Potala, the Lukhang murals offer an intimate and powerful experience. The preservation and study of these murals are crucial for understanding the continuity of Tibetan Buddhist traditions. TikTok

A Local's Sanctuary: The Lukhang Park Experience

Beyond the temple itself, the surrounding park is a vibrant hub of local life and a cherished spot for relaxation. Unlike more tourist-centric attractions, Lukhang Park is where ordinary Tibetans come to unwind, socialize, and engage in light physical activities. You'll often see people practicing tai chi, chatting with friends, or simply enjoying the serene atmosphere. This provides a unique opportunity for visitors to observe and appreciate the daily rhythms of Lhasa's residents. Reddit

The park's appeal is amplified by its stunning, unobstructed views of the Potala Palace. This vantage point offers a different perspective than the one from the palace itself, allowing for postcard-perfect shots of the iconic landmark reflected in the clean waters of the lake. The presence of amenities like washrooms and snack vendors further enhances the visitor experience, making it a comfortable place to spend an afternoon. The tranquility of the lake and the lively yet peaceful atmosphere of the park create a harmonious blend of natural beauty and cultural immersion. Reddit

You may also like

1 of 2