The summer palace

The Summer Palace was started by the 7th Dalai Lama who was a major mover and shaker back in the day. Apparently he was under the weather at one point and consulted an oracle who told him to look for a spring on the outside of town and bathe in it to cure his illness. He followed the instructions and was subsequently cured. The spot was developed into a retreat and later became the official summer residence of the government. It is a huge place surrounded by lovely gardens. As with everything we have seen in Tibet, it is in wonderful condition.

All of the heads of state have added to the complex, including the current Lama. When he left Tibet in 1954 he left from the Summer Palace.
The torch of the Olympic games also was conducted through Lhasa beginning on this road in front of the Palace.
Below you see the Dalai Lamas personal quarters with the a balcony for viewing performances. Nema told me that there used to be a large spring celebration here with all of the nomads from around the area and of course Lhasans camping in the gardens around the SP. Sounds like fun!