Prior to the first Dalai Lama there were six principal pre-incarnations commonly represented in art. For images of all of the incarnations see the Kadam Legbam.

1. Padmapani Avalokiteshvara
2. Konchog Bang
3. Songtsen Gampo
4. Dromton Gyalwai Jungne (1005-1064)
5. Sachen Kunga Nyingpo (1092-1158)
6. Chogyal Pagpa (1235-1280)
7. 1st Dalai Lama Gendun Druba (1391-1474)
8. 2nd Dalai Lama Gendun Gyatso (1476-1542)
9.3rd Dalai Lama Sonam Gyatso (1543-1588)
10. 4th Dalai Lama Yontan Gyatso (1589-1617)
11.5th Dalai Lama Lobzang Gyatso (1617-1682) & the Potala Palace
12. 6th Dalai Lama Tsangyang Gyatso (1683-1706/46)