Longbolhakang was the first palace built by the first Tibetan King, Nitri Tsampo, on the first Tibetan King, Nitri Tsampo, on the Yarlung Plain. It is also the oldest existing example of Tibetan architecture. In the Tibetan language, "Longbo" means female deer. "Lha" means back leg, while "Kang" means palace. So, the total meaning is "palace on the back leg of a female deer". As the mountain near Longbolhakang resembles a doe lying on its side and the palace was built just where the imaginary hind legs would be, it was given this mane. It is located at the top of the Jormo Zhaxi Ceri Mountain along the east bank of the Yarlung River about 12 kilometers from Zetang Town in Nedong County. First built at the beginning of the 2nd century BC, it was not used as a temple. Later, after Songtsan Gambo, the 32nd Tsampo, set up two-story halls at the both sides of the original palace, the Longbolhakang came to be used as a sutra hall. Expansion was made by every king and gateways were added to the two sides of the hall. At the south side, residences for the monks were built. During the reign of the 5th Dalai Lama, it was expanded and a golden top with sharp eaves was added. Though not on a large scale, Longbolhakang has a time-honored history. Since it is set on a mountain, it has a magnificent and spectacular appearance. Legend has it that the Tang Princess Wencheng liked to stay here during the summer months. All the Tsampos of the Tubo Kingdom also took retreats at the palace. Therefore, the architecture is very famous near and far. In 1962, the people's government of the Tibet Autonomous Region designated the Longbolhakang Palace as a cultural relic under the protection of the autonomous region. The palace is a must on the itinerary of any visitor to Shannan.