YUMBULAKHANG
12 km south of Tsetang, in the Yarlung valley, this small castle draws her majesty from his position on the top of a hill. You can reach it on foot through an easy and progressive path in about minutes. Yumbulakhang belongs to legend because it would be the first palace of the Tibetan kings, but the current construction dates back to 1982. The palace turned into a gelugpa temple guarded by five old monks. His sanctuary is dedicated to the Buddha Jowo Norbu Sampel (the lord of the jewel). The naive frescoes retrace the legend of King Nyatri Tsenpo, descended from the sky, and King Latotori of the th century, who receives from heaven the treasure, Buddhist text written in Sanskrit. On the wall opposite, we recognize the 21 aspects of Tara and the 16 Arhats in their caves.
On both sides of the door are Palden Lhamo and Yarlha Shampo, the two protectors of Yarlung. Behind the palace, a shallow path climbs to a little sanctuary dedicated to the gods of the mountain and reported by banners. From here you will have the best view of the castle.
It is accessed by a marked path, relatively easy despite the slope. It is also possible to go on the back of horse, for a 50aine of yuans. The visit also need to up and down a few levels, it is better to have a minimum of physical condition to venture there.
Prolong the visit of the palace by the tower of kora (along the prayer wheels), allowing you to enjoy the view of the valley. Behind the palace, a early path leads to a top slightly higher of the hill, with many of prayer flags. The ascent (or rather descent) is not always easy, but is really worth. The view of the fortress is incredible there