Jokhang

Fast Facts:

Location: Located in the heart of Lhasa, Tibet, China. Constructed: In the 7th century

Constructed: By the 33rd King of Tibet, Songtsen Gampo.

Attraction: The Holy Buddha Statue of Jowo Shakya Muni.

Jokhang Temple, also known as Rasa Trulnang Tsuklakhang in Tibetan, is located in the center of the sacred city of Lhasa, Tibet, China, and ranks among the most treasured Buddhist temples in Tibet. It serves as the spiritual epicenter of Tibetan Buddhism, housing the sole statue of the 12-year-old Jowo Shakya Muni (the current Buddha). The temple was erected in the 7th century during the reign of the 33rd Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo, who unified the entire Tibet and introduced Buddhism to the region. To form alliances with neighboring countries, the king wed the princess of Nepal and the princess of the Tang Dynasty. Both princesses brought sacred Buddha statues as part of their dowries.

Subsequently, the king resolved to construct a temple for each statue. Jokhang Temple was built for the 8-year-old Buddha statue of Jowo Mekyo Dorje, which was brought by the Nepali princess Bhrikuti, and the temple faces west towards Nepal. The king also erected another temple called Ramoche Temple, which houses the 12-year-old Buddha statue brought by the Tang princess, Jowo Shakya Muni. This temple faces east towards mainland China. At present, the main Buddha statue of Jokhang Temple… Significance of Jokhang Temple to Tibetan Buddhist Jokhang Temple holds profound significance for Buddhists. It stands as an essential and unmissable attraction for any journey through Tibet. Beyond its magnificent and awe-inspiring appearance, it represents the core of Buddhism in Tibet. Pilgrims hailing from diverse regions embark on their pilgrimages in various ways, such as through prostration or walking, with the ultimate aspiration of receiving the blessings from Jowo Shakya Muni and fulfilling their lifelong dreams. Consequently, for those seeking a highly spiritual adventure in Tibet, Jokhang Temple is an obligatory destination that enriches one’s spiritual awakening. For detailed information regarding the temple and Tibet tours, you can reach us at [email protected], and our proficient tour consultants will respond promptly.

Lhasa’s Barkhor Street : Barkhor street is the kora route to the Jokhang temple and filled with a strong religious atmosphere and unique Tibetan cultural flavor. In the street, you will find numerous Tibetan traditional designed buildings, countless shops lining in the street, selling a wide variety of authentic Tibetan products such as exquisite thangka paintings, Tibetan silver ornaments, traditional Tibetan incenses, and distinctive Tibetan costumes. This particular street is the main commercial areas for locals. In recent times, the street has transformed into a favored photography destination for tourist. Here, you can snap pictures and stroll alongside the locals,where you will have profound cultural and spiritual experiences. Every day, countless pilgrims walk clockwise along Barkhor Street, holding prayer wheels in their hands and chanting scriptures with pious expression. Tourists also can wonder along the street to experience the lifestyle and religious beliefs of the Tibetan people. To have more authentic cultural experience, it is a great idea to stop at local small restaurants to taste sweet tea, butter tea and other Tibetan cuisines. It is not only a street but also an important window to understand Tibetan culture, religion and folk customs.