As the First Palace in Tibet, Yumbulagang Palace was built in the 2nd Century BC for the first Tibetan King, Nyatri Tsanpo on the hilltop of Tashi Niri Mountain in Shannan. Its Tibetan name means "Deer Shrine", deriving from the hill's shape resembling a female deer.  

Since then it became the Tibetan Kings' palace and once served as the royal residence of the Yarlung Dynasty. Later, it became the summer retreat for Songtsen Gampo and Princess Wencheng, and was gradually transformed into a Buddhist shrine. 

With a history of over 2,000 years, Yongbulakang Palace is a three-story structure in classic Tibetan fortress style where visitors can overlook the beautiful Yarlung Valley. Inside lie precious Buddha statues and ancient murals recording early Tibetan history. As the cradle of Tibetan civilization, it perfectly carries profound historical heritage and unique plateau architectural charm.