Gongjue Linka in Shigatse, Tibet

Gongjue Linka in Shigatse, Tibet
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Chinese Name: 贡觉林卡
English Name: Gongjue Linka in Shigatse, Tibet

Gongjue Linka (贡觉林卡) is located approximately 2 kilometers northeast of Shigatse City (日喀则市), in Tibet. The site lies at the confluence of the Yarlung Tsangpo River (雅鲁藏布江) to the north and the Nianchu River (年楚河) to the east, offering scenic views and a rich historical background. Originally established by the 7th Panchen Lama, Dan Bai Nima (七世班禅丹白尼玛) in 1825 during the Qing Dynasty (清朝), the garden was modeled after the famous Norbulingka (罗布林卡) in Lhasa. The area, initially called Deji Jingtang (德吉经堂), was renamed Gongjue Linka (贡觉林宫) after the Qing Emperor Daoguang (道光帝) granted a gold plaque inscribed with the name in four languages: Tibetan, Chinese, Mongolian, and Manchu.

Historical Background

Foundation and Early Years

Gongjue Linka was constructed by the 7th Panchen Lama, Dan Bai Nima, in the Qing Dynasty in 1825. The palace was designed in a traditional Tibetan style, inspired by Norbulingka, the Dalai Lama’s summer residence in Lhasa. Initially known as Deji Jingtang, the site was later renamed Gongjue Linka after receiving imperial recognition from the Qing Emperor. The Panchen Lamas used this palace as their summer residence, and it became a sacred and cultural center for the region.

Cultural and Religious Significance

Each year, in the 8th month of the Tibetan calendar, the monastery hosts grand Cham dances (跳神), an important religious ritual. The dances began in 1846 under the patronage of 7th Panchen Lama, and the ceremony remains one of the most prominent cultural events in the region.

In 1954, the palace and its sacred halls were severely damaged by floods from the Nianchu River, and the Cham dance ceremony was subsequently moved to Dekingpozhang Palace (德钦颇章宫) in the west of Shigatse. Before the construction of Deking Gesangpozhang Palace (德庆格桑颇章), Gongjue Linka served as the summer palace for the Panchen Lamas from the 7th to the 10th generations, second only to Norbulingka.

Natural Beauty and Features

Flora and Unique Trees

The monastery grounds are home to an array of towering ancient trees, with willows being the most famous. The willows are known for their elegant, dance-like movements as their branches sway in the wind. Some willows twist and spiral in unusual shapes, growing in clockwise spirals, adding to the garden’s enchanting beauty. Among the garden’s trees are over 3,000 trees older than a century, with more than 100 trees over a thousand years old. The dominant tree species include Tibetan poplars, spiral willows, and seabuckthorn, creating a peaceful and meditative atmosphere.

Becoming a Popular Leisure Destination

As Shigatse has developed economically and socially, Gongjue Linka has become a popular summer retreat and a leisure paradise for locals. With the improvement of the area’s infrastructure, the site has now become an integral part of the riverfront tourism zone, alongside other nearby recreational spots like Zexiu Linka, Hui People Linka, and Qinshang Garden. Visitors from both China and abroad are drawn to the peaceful, natural surroundings, offering a perfect blend of nature and culture.

Recent Restoration and Modern Features

Restoration in 2003

Due to its dilapidated condition, Gongjue Linka underwent a major restoration in 2003 as part of the Tibet Assistance Project by Shanghai. The restoration aimed to preserve the original design while modernizing certain areas to make it more accessible to the public. The southern section of the garden, covering 15 hectares, was rehabilitated with several new features:

  • New entrance built to replicate the style of the original southern gate.

  • Construction of a three-story Tibetan-style gate at the southern entrance.

  • Transformation of the original mud brick wall into a steel and iron transparent fence.

  • Renovation of the mud brick stage and creation of new leisure areas.

  • River channel dredging and landscaping along the Lhasa Road.

  • Introduction of recreational areas, including a fitness zone, flower beds, and new garden sculptures.

This extensive renovation project, which cost 8.22 million RMB, also included improved pathways, picnic spots, and green areas for visitors to enjoy. The garden has become a hub for both historical appreciation and modern-day relaxation.

Gongjue Linka Today

Today, Gongjue Linka serves as both a historical landmark and an urban park for the residents of Shigatse. The site is now equipped with pavilions, arches, bridges, and a fitness area, providing a perfect location for locals and tourists to relax and enjoy the surroundings. The area continues to host important cultural and religious festivals, including the Cham dance and the Linka Festival, which takes place every June.

The New Palace: Deking Gesangpozhang

In 1954, after Gongjue Linka was destroyed by floods, the Chinese government allocated 500,000 RMB to build a new palace for the Panchen Lama. This new palace, known as Deking Gesangpozhang Palace (德庆格桑颇章), is located to the southwest of Shigatse and spans an area of 500,000 square meters. The palace integrates traditional Tibetan and modern architectural styles, making it both elegant and grand. Visitors are welcomed by majestic columns at the main entrance, adorned with intricate carvings depicting wild beasts, dragons, flowers, and Buddhist stories.

Inside the palace, visitors can explore the residential quarters of the Panchen Lama, including the prayer halls, Buddha statues, and protective deity temples. Each June, the Linka Festival is held here, where Shigatse citizens come together to celebrate with traditional outdoor activities and rituals.

Conclusion

Gongjue Linka is an extraordinary combination of historical significance, cultural heritage, and natural beauty. With its ancient trees, traditional Tibetan architecture, and rich cultural traditions, it continues to attract visitors and pilgrims from all over Tibet and beyond. The restoration efforts have ensured that this site remains a symbol of Shigatse’s cultural identity and offers a peaceful escape for both locals and tourists.

Visiting Information:

  • Opening Hours: The garden is open to the public year-round.

  • Location: Gongjue Linka, Nianchu River (年楚河), Shigatse, Tibet, China.

  • Admission: Entry is free, but donations for the maintenance of the site are appreciated.