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Our "port of entry", Lhasa is a stunning place.

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The Dalai Lama's historic place of residence, Potala Palace, is at the centre and is certainly a very impressive building.

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It is encased by the numerous mountain ranges, which provide a beautiful backdrop.

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Whilst much has changed over the years, the palace and mountains provide some form of permanence in what has been a city of change in the 20th and 21st centuries.

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The 5th Dalai Lama started its construction in 1645 after one of his spiritual advisers, Konchog Chophel (died 1646), pointed out that the site was ideal as a seat of government, situated as it is between Drepung and Sera monasteries and the old city of Lhasa. (Wikipedia)

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The concept, which originated and became popular in Chinese Buddhism, features a pair of highly stylized lions - often one male with a ball and one female with a cub - which were thought to protect the building from harmful spiritual influences and harmful people that might be a threat. (Wikipedia)

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Chinese Buddhist artists adopted the dragon as a symbol of enlightenment. Today dragons decorate roofs and gates of temples, both as guardians and to symbolize the dragon's power of clarity. Buddhist dragons often are depicted, as here, holding a mani jewel, which represents the Buddha's teaching. (www.learningreligions.com)

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Traditionally, a mantra is written in Tibetan language, on the outside of the wheel. The mantra, Om mani padme hum, is most commonly used, but other mantras may be used as well. According to the Tibetan Buddhist tradition based on the lineage texts regarding prayer wheels, spinning such a wheel will have much the same meritorious effect as orally reciting the prayers.

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Tibetans mingle in the old town markets, spread through networks of small streets, adding great colour, noise and spice to the city.

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Watch out for the yak meat butchers

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