It served as the regal residence of the Namgyal dynasty until the mid 19th century, after which the royal family permanently shifted to Stok. In present times, the palace is the administrative office of the Archaeological Conservation Organisation that is owned by the Indian Government.This 9-storey royal edifice is almost in ruins now, but is preserved as a part of Ladakh's heritage. An example of medieval Tibetan architecture, it has massive walls and wooden balconies. A victory tower, built in the memory of Ladakhi soldiers, is present towards the top of the palace. Ancient mural paintings adorn the interiors of this palace and speak of its golden bygone era."