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Explore the tranquil environment of Zongjiao Lukang Park, enjoy the beautiful Tibetan architecture, visit the historical temples, and relax by the pond. It's a perfect spot for a peaceful walk and appreciating nature and culture.
Located behind the Potala Palace, Zongjiao Lukang Park, also known as "Dragon King Pond Park," is located behind the Potala Palace. In Tibetan, "Zongjiao" means "behind the palace" (the palace refers to the Potala Palace), and "Lukang" means "Lu Temple." Lu is a general term in Tibetan Buddhism and Bon religion for subterranean and underwater deities.
During the 17th century, during the expansion of the Potala Palace, a large amount of earth was taken from behind the mountain. Groundwater subsequently seeped out, forming a pond, which became what is now known as Longwangtan (Lake Dragon King), also known as Tsogiji Lake in Tibetan. On a small island in the pond, a pavilion was constructed based on the mandala structure found in Tibetan Buddhist rituals. A five-arch stone bridge, over 3 meters wide and 20 meters long, connects the island to the outside world. This is a place for Lhasa residents to practice morning exercises and relax, and it is also the closest pilgrimage site to the Potala Palace.
Plateau mountain climate;
Best time to visit in spring and autumn
It is recommended to play for 1 hour
free
All day
Zongjiao Lukang Park is a historical park in Lhasa, Tibet, originally a royal garden in the 18th century. It holds cultural and spiritual significance, being home to several important Tibetan Buddhist temples and offering a glimpse into the local lifestyle and traditions.
Zongjiao Lukang Park is located in the heart of Lhasa. You can reach it by taxi or by walking from nearby attractions in Lhasa, such as the Jokhang Temple, which is about a 20-minute walk away.
The park is open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the peaceful ambiance.
The entrance fee is around 30 CNY for adults. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance of the park, and there are no online booking options available.
Advance booking is not necessary. You can purchase tickets on the spot at the park entrance.
A visit to Zongjiao Lukang Park typically takes 1 to 2 hours, depending on how much time you spend in the temples and walking around the park.
The must-see highlights include the Tibetan Buddhist temples, the tranquil pond, the beautiful pavilions, and the lush greenery. The park's architecture and the surrounding natural beauty make it a peaceful retreat.
Guided tours are available, but they are generally in Chinese. Audio guides are not typically available, so it may be helpful to join a tour if you want more information about the park's history and significance.
The best photography spots include the scenic views around the pond, the traditional Tibetan architecture, and the peaceful garden pathways. The temples also provide excellent backdrops for photos.
Start by entering through the main gate and take a leisurely walk around the park. Visit the main temple first, then explore the surrounding gardens and pavilions. Finish by relaxing by the pond before exiting.
The park is not typically open for night visits, and there are no light shows. However, the park is beautifully tranquil in the evening if you happen to be nearby.
The park can get busy during the day, especially on weekends and holidays. The least crowded times are early morning or late afternoon, particularly on weekdays.
The park has public restrooms and a few benches for resting. There are no large shops or food outlets inside the park, but there are several cafes and restaurants nearby in Lhasa.
The park is mostly accessible for elderly and children, though the terrain can be uneven in some areas. It's recommended to check with the staff about wheelchair accessibility before visiting.
Cash is accepted, but mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are also commonly used in the area. It’s a good idea to carry both cash and a mobile payment option.
Nearby cafes and restaurants include Snowland Restaurant (serving Tibetan cuisine) and Tashi Restaurant, both offering a range of local dishes and Tibetan food.
Yes, vegetarian and vegan options are available at various restaurants around the park. Halal food can also be found in specific Tibetan restaurants.
Some nearby hotels include the Shangri-La Hotel Lhasa and the Lhasa Hotel, both offering comfortable accommodations with easy access to the park.
Nearby attractions include Jokhang Temple, Potala Palace, and the Barkhor Street. These are all must-see landmarks in Lhasa and can easily be combined in a day trip.
There are souvenir shops near the park selling traditional Tibetan crafts, including thangkas (Tibetan Buddhist paintings), prayer beads, Tibetan carpets, and local jewelry.
The best way to continue your trip is by taxi, which is readily available in Lhasa. Alternatively, you can take public buses to other nearby attractions.
