Norbulingka

Norbulingka park, known as Jewel Park was the site of the Dalai Lamas' summer palace. It is situated one kilometer west of the Potala Palace and covers a total area of 360000 square meters. In 1752, the 7th Dalai Lama built the first palace in this park, since then, Norbulingka has become the summer palace for successive Dalai lamas to carry out their political and religious activities during the summer season. In 1954, the 14th Dalai Lama, TenzinGyatso, built the last palace in Norbulingka—the "New Palace". Construction of this palace started in 1954 and was completed in 1957. Today Norbulingka has become a public park for picnicking, relaxing and entertainment.