Jokhang Temple Travel Guide
Life-size Statue of Shakyamuni at Age Twelve · Barkhor Street · Golden Roof
Jokhang Temple is the most important temple in the hearts of Tibetan Buddhist believers, enshrining a twelve-year-old life-size statue of Shakyamuni. The Barkhor Street in front of the temple is the core circumambulation path of Lhasa, and the stream of people circumambulating in the early morning is the most moving scene of this city.
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Destination Details
Jokhang Temple was built in the 7th century during the Tibetan Empire by Songtsen Gampo for Princess Wencheng. It was later expanded multiple times. Its status in Tibetan Buddhism is extremely high: the life-size statue of the twelve-year-old Shakyamuni enshrined in the temple is regarded as the most blessed Buddha statue.
Key Highlights
Life-Size Statue of Twelve-Year-Old Shakyamuni
Enshrined in the main hall, Juekang, it is said to have been brought into Tibet by Princess Wencheng. Devotees form continuous queues from morning to evening to pay their respects. When visiting, one should move clockwise and stay quiet.
Golden Roof and Platform
The two-level platform and golden roof offer the best view for taking photos overlooking Barkhor Street and the direction of the Potala Palace, with the afternoon light being optimal. The gilded decorations and dharma wheel on the golden roof are extremely striking under the high-altitude blue sky.
Kora Circuit
Barkhor Street, which surrounds the temple, is the kora route. In the early morning, devotees walk clockwise around it, spinning prayer wheels and performing prostrations. Walking a full circle along it is the most direct way to understand this city.
Suggested Duration
- 1.5 hours: Main hall and platform.
- Half a day: Add Barkhor Street and surrounding old courtyards.
Local Reminders
- Photos are strictly prohibited inside the hall; hats must be removed and voices kept low.
- All visits must follow a clockwise direction.
- Avoid excessive walking before acclimating to the high-altitude conditions.
