Renovation of the golden roof of the Potala Palace is nearly complete and is awaiting inspection by the National Cultural Heritage Administration, said the Potala Palace Management Office in the Tibet autonomous region on Wednesday.

The government has been making a significant effort to preserve Tibet's cultural relics over the past few decades, including the palace, one of three UNESCO World Heritage sites in the region.

With a history of more than 1,300 years, the Potala Palace is an invaluable asset that enriches Tibet's history, culture, art and religion.

The historical palace underwent two major renovations by the central government from 1989 to 2009 during which more than 200 million yuan ($29 million) was invested.

Not only does the site receive support for renovation from the central government, but it also continues to receive renovation and preservation assistance from the regional government and the palace's management office, said Jordan, deputy head of the office.

The latest renovation of the roof was launched in April.

"More than 31 million yuan was spent during the recent renovation," said Jordan.

The renovated roof consists of reliquary stupas of the successive Dalai Lamas, including the fifth Dalai Lama Ngakwang Losang Gyatso, the seventh Dalai Lama Kalsang Gyatso, the eighth Dalai Lama Jampal Gyatso, the ninth Dalai Lama Lungthok Gyatso, and the roof of the Avalokitesvara Temple.

The renovated roof also has seven victory banners and four roof ornaments along its edge.

"The surface of the reliquary stupas was eroded by rainwater, and the color of the gold plating has faded over time," said Tashi Phuntsok, head of the office's renovation department.