Jokhang Temple

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Spot Introduction

Jokhang Temple, originally built during the 7th century Tubo Dynasty under the auspices of Songtsen Gampo, stands as the most sacred temple in Tibetan Buddhism and the oldest civil architecture in Lhasa. Within its precincts, it houses a life-size statue of the 12-year-old Shakyamuni Buddha brought from Chang’an by Princess Wencheng. This statue, one of the most precious Buddhist images in Tibet, is revered as the true likeness of the Buddha and a pilgrimage site for countless devotees.

The Jokhang Temple is a harmonious fusion of Tibetan, Tang, Nepalese, and Indian architectural styles, featuring a dazzling golden roof and fluttering prayer flags. Its main structure, a four-story building, adopts the “mandala” layout, symbolizing the Buddhist cosmology. The exquisite wall paintings inside the temple chronicle the history, religion, and culture of Tibet, earning it the moniker “the encyclopedia of Tibetan history.”

As the spiritual center of Tibetan Buddhism, Jokhang Temple holds a supreme position in the hearts of Tibetan people. Every morning, devotees from various parts converge on Barkhor Street to pray and circumambulate the temple. The bluestone pavement before the temple bears the imprints of countless pilgrims prostrating themselves in devotion, testifying to the piety of believers over the centuries.

Jokhang Temple is not only a religious sanctuary but also a symbol of Tibetan culture. It has witnessed the cultural exchange between Tibet and the Central Plains, with significant historical events like the arrival of Princess Wencheng and Princess Jincheng being closely linked to the temple. The temple treasures a vast collection of cultural relics, including Buddhist statues, Thangkas, and scriptures, all possessing exceptional historical and artistic value.

During the Butter Lamp Festival on the fifteenth day of the first lunar month every Tibetan year, Jokhang Temple hosts a grand religious ceremony that attracts tens of thousands of devotees. The temple is illuminated by ever-burning butter lamps, and the sounds of scriptures and Buddhist chants fill the air, showcasing the unique religious atmosphere and cultural charm of Tibetan Buddhism.

Must-visit Attractions

  1. Main Hall of the Jokhang Temple

    • Statue of Shakyamuni Buddha
    • Wall painting art
    • Suggested visiting time: 60 minutes

  2. Roof of the Jokhang Temple

    • Viewing platform
    • Golden roof architecture
    • Suggested visiting time: 30 minutes

  3. Barkhor Street

    • Prayer wheel path
    • Commercial district
    • Suggested visiting time: 90 minutes

  4. Prayer Plaza

    • Morning and evening chanting
    • Believer activities
    • Suggested visiting time: 30 minutes

Visiting Suggestions

  1. Best touring route

    • Plaza → Main Hall
    • Roof → Barkhor Street
    • Prayer wheel in a clockwise direction

  2. Visiting schedule arrangement

    • Early morning is the best time
    • Avoid noon
    • Pay attention to festivals

  3. Practical tips

    • Dress appropriately
    • No photography
    • Respect beliefs

Transportation Guide

  • Airplane: Lhasa Gonggar Airport
  • Train: Lhasa Station
  • Bus: Routes 8, 17, 24
  • Walking: Walkable from the city center
  1. Tibetan sweet tea
  2. Buttered tea
  3. Tibetan noodles
  4. Tsampa (roasted highland barley flour)

Special Reminders

  1. Turn the prayer wheel clockwise
  2. No photography
  3. Dress neatly
  4. Respect beliefs
  5. Adapt to the plateau climate
  6. Avoid noon
  7. Carry an oxygen tank
  8. Stay safe.