Larang Nyingba, Lhasa
Chinese Name：拉让宁巴
English Name：Larang Nyingba
Location: Located in Lhasa Prefecture, Tibet Autonomous Region, China
Admission fee: Free
Opening hours: All day
About Larang Nyingba
“Larang” means the palace of Living Buddha, while “Nyingba” means ancient or old in Tibetan language. Thus, Larang Nyingpa means the ancient palace of Living Buddha. The most attractive place in Lhasa should the ancient Barkhor Street (八廓街) sitting in the heart of the traditional district of Lhasa. It is more interesting to go to explore traditional buildings hiding inside of the Barkhor, for example Larang Nyingba, an ancient courtyard at Barkhor Street.
History and Development of Larang Nyingba
The Labrang Nyingba was the palace of the fifth Dalai Lama, Lobsang Gyatso in the 17th century before his palace at the top of Jokhang Templewas built. Before 17th century, it worked as the mansion of Tunmye Sangbutsa, the most important minister of Tubo Kingdom in Songtsan Gampo’s reign. Then, it became the living place of Tsongkhapa, a well-known Tibetan religious philosopher.
Main Attractions- Larang Nyingba
When you make a Lhasa tour, you can drop a visit to this courtyard to explore Tibetan people’s daily life and traditional buildings of Tibet. This ancient courtyard with unique architecture and bright colors is isolated with the busy Barkhor Street by a wall. Walking into the tranquil courtyard from the noisy Barkhor, you will get an illusion of through the ancient-modern and space-time transformation. It is strange and interesting.
Attraction Transportation
Lhasa shares convenient transportation, so you can fly to Lhasa Kongga International Airport （拉萨贡嘎国际机场）and then take the airport bus or drive by yourself to Lhasa, the whole journey is about 60km. As one of the most ancient buildings in Lhasa, Larang Nyingba is very famous in Lhasa. But it is not easy to find this place for it hides in the shops at south Barkhor Street. You should walk along the Barkhor Street clockwise to the famous restaurant Makye Ame, then go west for 50m and you will find a huge willow with a history over one thousand years. The Larang Nyingba is just located at west of this ancient tree.
Attraction Travel Tips
1. Traveling Hours: 1~2 hours
2. Traveling Seasons: All year
3. High Altitude Sickness Avoiding: Bring enough water and some thick clothes, eating more fruits and vegetables rich in vitamins and so on.
4.Pay attention to respect the local customers.
