The Potala’s Backyard Garden: Reflections of History and Life at Zongjiao Lukang Park

The Secret Garden Behind the Palace

1.In the heart of: Lhasa, amidst the bustle of the "City of Sunlight," lies a serene oasis known as Zongjiao Lukang Park (also known as the Dragon King Pool or Longwangtan). Situated immediately to the north, directly behind the majestic Potala Palace, this park offers a unique perspective on the city's most iconic landmark. Unlike the imposing grandeur of the palace's front facade, the park provides a softer, more intimate view, where the reflection of the Red and White Palaces dances upon the tranquil waters of a large artificial lake,. For travelers, it is not just a scenic spot but a window into the authentic daily life of Lhasa's residents, a place where the sacred and the secular blend harmoniously under the shade of ancient willows.

A History Born from Construction

2.The origins of Zongjiao: Lukang are deeply intertwined with the construction of the Potala Palace itself. "Zongjiao" in Tibetan means "behind the castle" or "behind the palace," while "Lukang" translates to "Temple of the Dragon King",. The park's central feature, the lake, was originally a pit formed in the 17th century when a vast amount of earth was excavated to build the Potala Palace during its expansion by the 5th Dalai Lama,. Over time, this pit filled with underground water, transforming into a lake. Later, the 6th Dalai Lama, Tsangyang Gyatso, built a pavilion on the lake's central island to worship the Dragon King (Lu), inviting the deity from Maizhokunggar to protect the waters, thus giving the park its name,.

The Dragon King's Island

3.At the heart of the park lies the: Lukang (Dragon King Temple), a stunning three-story pavilion perched on an island in the middle of the lake. Accessible by a stone bridge, this structure is a masterpiece of architectural fusion, blending Tibetan and Han Chinese styles with a glittering golden roof that shines under the plateau sun,. The temple enshrines the image of the Dragon King and serves as the religious center of the park. Surrounded by water and framed by ancient willows—some of which are legendary trees said to have been planted by Princess Wencheng during the Tang Dynasty—the island creates a picturesque scene that feels like a classic garden from the Jiangnan region, yet set against the backdrop of the high Himalayas,.

A Stage for Local Life

Zongjiao Lukang is more than a historical site; it is the living room of Lhasa. It is a popular spot for "Lingka" (picnicking and leisure) among locals. Every day, the park buzzes with energy as Tibetans gather to perform the Guozhuang dance, a traditional circle dance, to the rhythm of lively music,. Visitors can see elderly residents spinning prayer wheels while circumambulating the park, parents walking with their children, and youths chatting on benches. The atmosphere is vibrant and relaxed, offering a stark contrast to the solemnity of the monasteries. It is one of the best places to observe the genuine lifestyle of the Lhasa people and feel the pulse of the city,.

A Photographer's Paradise

For photographers, Zongjiao Lukang offers one of the most classic and coveted shots in Tibet: the reflection of the Potala Palace. The calm surface of the lake acts as a perfect mirror, capturing the inverted image of the palace against the blue sky and white clouds,. The view is particularly stunning in the early morning or late afternoon when the light is soft, or during autumn when the willow leaves turn golden, adding a splash of color to the frame. In winter and spring, the park also becomes a haven for migratory birds, including black-headed gulls and bar-headed geese, adding a dynamic natural element to the serene landscape.