Jokhang
Xizang Zizhiqu
Jokhang Temple, located in the heart of Lhasa's old town, is the most revered religious site in Tibetan Buddhism. Founded in the 7th century during the Tibetan Empire under King Songtsen Gampo, it was built to house a sacred statue of the young Shakyamuni Buddha brought by a Nepalese princess. The temple's architecture uniquely combines Tibetan, Tang Chinese, Nepalese, and Indian influences, representing a seminal example of Tibetan religious architecture. Over centuries, Jokhang has been the spiritual center for all Tibetan Buddhist sects and the political-religious hub of Tibet, hosting important ceremonies such as the Golden Urn selection of reincarnate lamas. It occupies a prominent place in Tibetan culture and social life, with the surrounding Barkhor Street forming a pilgrimage circuit. Despite suffering damage during the Cultural Revolution, the temple was restored in the late 20th century and remains active today, preserving invaluable artifacts and artworks. Jokhang's layout, with its mandala-inspired design and multiple halls dedicated to significant figures, embodies Tibetan cosmology and religious tradition. Its status as a UNESCO World Heritage site as part of the Potala Palace complex underscores its global cultural significance.
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Tip: The best time to visit Jokhang is during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and experience the serene atmosphere. Visitors should consider purchasing tickets in advance, especially during peak pilgrimage seasons. Modest attire respecting local customs is recommended. Photographs inside the temple are generally restricted. The temple offers discounted entry for seniors and students. Be prepared for security checks and possible queueing during festivals. The surrounding Barkhor Street offers shops and local culture, ideal for exploring after the temple visit.
Interesting facts
- •Jokhang Temple houses a statue of the Shakyamuni Buddha in his 12-year-old form, brought by Princess Wencheng from the Tang dynasty.
- •The temple's layout mirrors the Buddhist mandala representing the universe, with a main hall facing east and multiple subsidiary chapels.
- •During the Cultural Revolution, the temple was severely damaged and converted into a pigsty, with monks barred from worship.
- •The Barkhor Street surrounding Jokhang forms a traditional pilgrimage circuit for Tibetan Buddhists.
- •The Golden Urn lottery ceremony for selecting high lamas historically took place at Jokhang.
- •Jokhang is the oldest and most important temple in Tibet and is considered the spiritual heart of Lhasa.
History
Jokhang Temple was established in the 7th century by King Songtsen Gampo as part of Tibet's early Buddhist foundation.
It was originally constructed to enshrine a statue of the young Shakyamuni Buddha brought by a Nepalese princess, symbolizing the introduction of Buddhism to Tibet.
The temple underwent expansions and renovations over successive dynasties, becoming the spiritual and political center of Tibetan Buddhism.
During the Cultural Revolution in the 1960s, Jokhang suffered severe damage and was repurposed as a pigsty, but restoration efforts began in the 1970s, culminating in the temple's reopening and reinstatement of religious activities by 1980.
In 2000, Jokhang was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site as part of the Potala Palace complex.
A fire in 2018 caused damage to parts of the temple, but no artifacts or lives were lost, and it quickly reopened to the public.
Place Guide
Main Hall (Shakyamuni Buddha Hall)7th century
The principal sanctuary houses the revered statue of the 12-year-old Shakyamuni Buddha, the temple's spiritual centerpiece. The hall features intricate wood carvings and murals reflecting Tibetan and Tang artistic styles.
Tsongkhapa Hall1409
Dedicated to Tsongkhapa, founder of the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism, this hall contains statues and relics honoring his legacy.
Barkhor Pilgrimage Circuit
The circular street surrounding Jokhang, where pilgrims perform kora (ritual circumambulation), visiting small shrines and prayer wheels along the way.
Contact
Phone: 0891 633 6858