Jokhang Temple
Tibetan Buddhism's most sacred temple, and the reason pilgrims travel to Lhasa at all.
Founded in the 7th century, the Jokhang Temple is considered the most sacred temple in Tibetan Buddhism, the spiritual centre pilgrims from across the plateau travel to reach, often prostrating themselves the final stretch of the journey outside its doors. It houses the Jowo Shakyamuni, a statue of the Buddha at age 12 said to have been brought to Tibet by a Chinese princess in the 7th century, and considered by many Tibetan Buddhists to be the most venerated object in Tibet.
The temple's golden roof and dim, butter-lamp-lit interior contrast sharply with the Potala's grandeur, this is a working place of devotion rather than a museum, and it shows in the constant flow of pilgrims circling its halls. Photography inside requires a separate permit.
Highlights
The Jowo Shakyamuni statue, Tibetan Buddhism's most venerated image
Constant pilgrim activity, a living temple, not a museum piece
The starting and ending point of the Barkhor kora just outside
A same-day advance booking is required, made through an official reservation system
Trips that visit Jokhang Temple
Practical Info
Address
Barkhor Square, central Lhasa, Tibet Autonomous Region
Opening Hours
9:00am to 6:00pm daily (last entry 4:30pm); book one day ahead
Price
budget
Approx. CNY 85 entry, plus a separate photography permit if you plan to take photos inside
In This Destination
Lhasa
Tibet's spiritual and political capital, home to the Potala Palace
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