Why the Potala Palace is special
The Potala Palace in Tibet, China was built in 1645 as the spiritual and political seat of Tibet and the residence of the Dalai Lama. This massive structure physically dominates the Lhasa skyline.
The view from the Potala Palace's roof and balconies is spectacular. Below lies Lhasa and, beyond, the countryside and mountains.

Two palaces in one
The 1000-room Potala Palace is really two palaces: A white one below and a red one above (see photo). The first is used mainly for administrative purposes while the second serves a religious function.

Inside the palace
The Potala Palace still contains many Tibetan Buddhist relics, shrines, statues, Dalai Lama tombs - and, as in times past, live bureaucrats.
The building’s air is filled with the same sounds (chanting) and scents (yak-butter burning lamps) that visitors encountered centuries ago.
Going from the bottom to the top floor of the Potala Palace is a breathtaking experience – there are no elevators. You climb 13 floors at the rarified altitude of 3,600 meters (12,000 feet).

What leading travel books say about the Potala Palace
The Potala Palace is dazzling both inside and out.
China
Rough Guides

The Potala Palace was the world's tallest building before the advent of skyscrapers.
China
Fodor's