Welcome to Jokhang Temple, the spiritual center of Tibet, right in the heart of Lhasa’s Old Town. This UNESCO-listed gem offers a fascinating glimpse into Tibetan culture and daily religious life, making it a must-see on your Tibetan journey.
KEY FACTS ABOUT JOKHANG TEMPLE
School of Tibetan Buddhism: Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism (though venerated by all sects)
Established: 7th century (647 AD) by Tibetan king Songtsen Gampo 647 CE
Main Statue: 2500-year-old Jowo Shakyamuni statue, a life-sized image of 12-year-old Buddha, consecrated by the historical Buddha himself
Location: in the heart of Lhasa, Center of Barkhor Square, Old Town Lhasa
UNESCO Status: World Heritage Site (1994)
Significance: Most sacred Buddhist temple in Tibet; ultimate pilgrimage destination
Temple Structure: Three floors plus roof level with numerous chapels and halls
Tickets reservation
During the tourist season, we must make reservations to visit Jokhang Temple. We will have a specific time for this reservation when we can visit.
You can only visit Jokhang Temple with a local guide and this reservation ticket.
We usually make reservations in the afternoons, as locals and pilgrims typically visit in the morning, and afternoons are less crowded. It also makes it easier to combine visiting 2 main highlights in Lhasa: Potala Palace in the morning and Jokhang Temple in the afternoon.
Why Visit Jokhang Temple?
Jokhang isn’t just another temple; it’s the beating heart of Tibetan Buddhism. Located in the ancient heart of Lhasa’s Old Town, this 1,400-year-old temple is home to Tibet’s most revered treasure – a life-sized statue of the 12-year-old Buddha.
Recognized by UNESCO for its outstanding cultural value, Jokhang Temple beautifully preserves over a thousand years of Tibetan history and tradition. Walk through its ancient corridors and chapels, each echoing with stories from Tibet’s legendary past.
From dawn till dusk, witness pilgrims circling the temple along the lively Barkhor circuit, bringing the deep-rooted traditions of Tibet vividly to life.
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READY TO EXPERIENCE JOKHANG TEMPLE?
Contact our Tibet travel specialists today to plan your journey to this extraordinary spiritual landmark. Our expert guides will ensure you experience the authentic essence of Jokhang Temple and Tibetan culture.
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Practical Jokhang Temple Visitor Information
DID YOU KNOW? The Sacred Practice of Prostrations
Prostration is one of the most devoted forms of Buddhist practice you’ll witness on in front of Jokhang Temple and Barkhor Street. Pilgrims take three steps forward, then kneel down and stretch their entire bodies flat on the ground, arms extended and foreheads touching the earth.
This physically demanding act symbolizes complete submission to the Buddha and purification of body, speech, and mind.
Some dedicated pilgrims travel hundreds of kilometers to Lhasa, performing prostrations the entire way, a journey that can take several months.
VISITOR EXPERIENCE: WHAT TO EXPECT AT JOKHANG TEMPLE
ENTERING THE SACRED COMPLEX
Your journey begins at Barkhor Square, where you’ll witness pilgrims prostrating before the temple entrance.
Notice the large incense burners filling the air with the scent of juniper in the front of Jokhang and the two large poles with prayer flags. As we enter the Temple through the Main Gate, passing by pilgrims prostrating in front of the Temple, observe the four Guardian King statues flanking the entrance, protectors of the four cardinal directions.
Once in the courtyard, take time to appreciate the detailed murals depicting the history of Buddhism in the courtyard area. Depending on the day and time, you can see monks chanting there. You can take photos of an unobstructed view of the Jokhang.
THE MAIN PRAYER HALL and JOWO SHAKYAMUNI statue
Enter the atmospheric main assembly hall illuminated by hundreds of butter lamps. In the center of the main hall, find the impressive statues of Padmasambhava (Guru Rinpoche) and Maitreya (Future Buddha). Follow the clockwise path around the hall to visit smaller chapels on all sides of the temple devoted to various deities. You can visit some of the most important chapels, including the chapels of Tsongkhapa, eight Medicine Buddhas, and Avalokiteshvara.
Experience the heart of the temple at the rear chapel, housing the famous Jowo Shakyamuni statue. The temple’s most precious treasure sits in a special chapel at the rear of the main hall. Unlike most Buddha statues depicting him as a simple monk, after his enlightenment, this life-sized image shows the 12-year-old prince. Adorned with gold and precious stones, the statue draws a continuous stream of devoted worshippers. While the inner chapel is reserved for Tibetan worshippers only, visitors can still view the statue from a respectful distance.
EXPLORING THE UPPER FLOORS
Ascend narrow wooden staircases to reach the second floor, with additional chapels and shrines. Dalai Lama’s former quarters, preserved with original furnishings, are located on the second floor. Take time to appreciate the ancient wooden beams and architectural details throughout.
We will also go out on the terrace over the inner courtyard to get a better view of the marvelous architectural details and see the upper floors from up close.
SPECIAL CELEBRATIONS AT JOKHANG TEMPLE
MONLAM CHENMO (GREAT PRAYER FESTIVAL)
Monlam Chenmo, or the Great Prayer Festival, ranks among Tibet’s most significant annual celebrations. This two-week celebration during the first Lunar month (Tibetan New Year) brings together monks from Drepung, Sera, and Ganden monasteries for extensive prayers and rituals. Pilgrims gather to receive blessings, witness ceremonies, and join the grand circumambulation around the temple while making offerings to Buddha.
BUTTER LAMP FESTIVAL (CHUNGA CHOPA)
The Butter Lamp Festival concludes the Monlam Prayer Festival on the fifteenth day of the first Tibetan month, with a similar celebration occurring on the 25th day of the tenth lunar month (Ganden Ngamchoe) to honor Tsongkhapa, founder of the Gelug school. The temple and surrounding area become illuminated by thousands of butter lamps, creating a mesmerizing spectacle symbolizing wisdom dispelling ignorance.
PALDEN LHAMO FESTIVAL
The Palden Lhamo Festival occurs on the 15th day of the 10th lunar month, honoring the goddess of protection for women and children with a ceremonial parade carrying her statue around the temple. Recognized as “Women’s Day” in Tibet, local women dress in their finest clothes to offer prayers for good fortune and protection amidst colorful processions and traditional music.
SAGA DAWA FESTIVAL
Saga Dawa, a month-long festival in the fourth Tibetan month (May-June), commemorates Buddha’s birth, enlightenment, and parinirvana, with its pinnacle on the 15th day featuring a grand prayer ceremony at Jokhang. This auspicious time draws countless pilgrims making offerings and performing prostrations, as Tibetans believe good deeds performed during this period accumulate exceptional spiritual merit.
NEARBY ATTRACTIONS: EXPLORING AROUND JOKHANG TEMPLE
WALK AROUND BARKHOR STREET: The sacred circuit
Walk around the temple, joining numerous pilgrims, monks, and local Tibetans.
Barkhor Street forms an ancient pilgrimage route that encircles Jokhang Temple. What began as a simple path for pilgrims has evolved into the vibrant heart of Lhasa’s old town. Join locals as they circumambulate the temple in a clockwise direction, spinning prayer wheels and murmuring mantras. A complete circuit takes approximately 30 minutes at a leisurely pace, offering an authentic glimpse into Tibetan spiritual life. Early morning or late afternoon provides the most genuine experience when local pilgrims outnumber tourists.
Many houses of noble families were on Barkhor Street. Some buildings that you can see are dating back several centuries. Nowadays, the street is also famous for its shops selling books, paintings, statues, rugs, souvenirs, and much more. There are a few restaurants for those who want to take a break from the busy city center.
VISIT SMALL TEMPLES ON BARKHOR STREET
Visit small monasteries or temples on Bakhor Street.
Several smaller temples and monasteries near Jokhang offer quieter yet equally fascinating spiritual experiences. They are usually less crowded than Jokhang, and many of them are old and interesting.
The Mani Lhakhang (the center building in the first photo) houses a massive prayer wheel that pilgrims set in motion, sending thousands of prayers with each revolution. Adjacent to it stands the yellow-painted Future Buddha Chapel dedicated to Maitreya. There are many statues of protectors. There is also a meditation cave.
If you continue walking down this small street, (going right from Bakhor Street when walking clockwise), you will first see the Gongkar Chode Chapel on the right. It is easy to recognize it by the wall paintings on the black background by its entrance.
At the end of the street, you will find an entrance to the Meru Nyingba Monastery (on the second photo). It was originally built in the 7th century and is very popular among Tibetans.
SHOPPING ON BARKHOR STREET
The bustling marketplaces of Barkhor Street offer some of Tibet’s finest traditional crafts and souvenirs. Browse stalls filled with authentic Tibetan handicrafts, including intricately designed prayer wheels, vibrant thangka paintings, and meaningful religious artifacts. You’ll find colorful textiles, including traditional Tibetan aprons and hand-woven carpets, alongside distinctive jewelry featuring turquoise, coral, and silver in traditional designs. Prayer flags, singing bowls, and incense make meaningful mementos of your journey. Remember that friendly negotiation is expected. As a center of attraction for tourists, Barkhor Street shops typically have higher prices than shops in adjacent streets.
LOCAL FOOD & TEA HOUSES
Sampling authentic Tibetan cuisine enhances any visit to the Jokhang area.
Experience genuine Tibetan tea culture alongside locals at a traditional Tea House, where locals gather to socialize and exchange news. You can try sweet milk tea or traditional butter tea, along with local favorites like momos (dumplings) and thukpa (noodle soup).
For a more traditional experience, you can visit one of the many local restaurants offering Tibetan, Indian, Nepalese, and even Western meals.
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HALF-DAY EXPLORATION: JOKHANG TEMPLE AND BARKHOR STREET (4-5 HOURS)
Begin your journey at the sacred Jokhang Temple, allowing approximately two hours to fully appreciate its spiritual atmosphere and architectural details. Next, join pilgrims circumambulating Barkhor Street, taking time to browse the market stalls for authentic souvenirs. Continue to Mani Lhakhang and Meru Nyingba Monastery to experience smaller yet significant temples. Complete your half-day by relaxing at a traditional Tibetan tea house, where you can reflect on your experiences while enjoying butter tea and local snacks alongside Lhasa residents.
FULL-DAY LHASA HIGHLIGHTS (8-9 HOURS)
Maximize your Lhasa experience by starting early at the majestic Potala Palace, allowing 2-3 hours to explore its labyrinthine corridors and sacred chambers. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, sampling authentic Tibetan specialties before proceeding to Jokhang Temple for an immersive afternoon visit. Spend the remainder of the afternoon exploring Barkhor Street and its hidden temples, soaking in the authentic Tibetan atmosphere. Conclude your day with an evening walk towards Potala Palace to witness the golden hour light bathing Potala Palace, a perfect photographic opportunity and a memorable end to your day.
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Contact our travel specialists to customize these itineraries to match your interests and schedule, or join one of our guided group tours for a hassle-free experience of Lhasa’s highlights.
HISTORY OF JOKHANG TEMPLE
THE FOUNDING AND EARLY YEARS
Jokhang was founded around 647 CE during the reign of King Songtsen Gampo, who unified Tibet and established Buddhism as the state religion. To strengthen diplomatic ties with neighboring powers, the king married Chinese princess Wencheng from the Tang Dynasty and Nepalese princess Bhrikuti. Both princesses arrived in Tibet with holy statues and sacred objects. The king initiated the construction of the Jokhang to house a statue of Jowo Mikyo Dorje, a representation of eight-year-old Shakyamuni, brought to Tibet as part of the dowry of his Nepalese wife. Consequently, the temple faces west, toward Nepal.
At the same time, the Ramoche Temple was constructed to house another important Buddha statue, Jowo Sakyamuni, representing Shakyamuni at the age of twelve, brought to Tibet by the king’s Chinese wife. This is why the Ramoche Temple faces east, toward China.
THE SACRED SITE AND CONSTRUCTION
Before construction began, the site of Jokhang Temple was originally the Otang Lake. According to legend, thousands of goats carried soil to fill up the lake, which is why the capital was initially named “Rasa” (meaning “Goats”). Some say you can still hear the sounds of water beneath the temple to this day. The original name of the temple was “Rasa Thrulnag Tsuklakhang,” meaning “House of Mysteries” or “House of Religious Science.” Only later did it become known as “Jokhang,” meaning “House of the Jowo,” referring to its sacred statue.
Skilled Newari artisans came from Nepal to work on the construction, bringing distinctive architectural influences. The king reportedly selected the temple site by tossing his ring (or hat in some versions of the story) ahead of him, promising to build where it landed.
PROTECTING THE SACRED TREASURES
After the death of King Songtsen Gampo, Tibetans moved the Jowo Sakyamuni statue from Ramoche to Jokhang to protect it from the Tang army that intended to take it back to China. The statue remained hidden in one of the halls of the Jokhang until King Tride Tsugtsen’s wife brought it out. This statue eventually became the most revered object in Tibet, drawing pilgrims from across the Himalayan region.
CENTURIES OF CHANGE AND MODERN PRESERVATION
Today, we can see the original building with many elements that date back to the 7th century. However, numerous additions have been made to the complex over the centuries. The courtyard appeared during Tsongkhapa’s time in the 14th century. Later, in the 17th century, the Fifth Dalai Lama significantly enlarged it and reconstructed some elements of the temple.
A few interior carved pillars and entrance arches remain original from the 7th century, showcasing the craftmanship of Newari artisans from the Kathmandu Valley in Nepal.
During the Cultural Revolution (1966-1976), the interior of the Jokhang was severely damaged, many artifacts were stolen, and some historic Tibetan scriptures were burned. For a time, portions of the temple reportedly housed pigs, a slaughterhouse, and Chinese army barracks.
Fortunately, the temple was later restored, and in 1994, it was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site alongside the Potala Palace, ensuring its protection for future generations.
Today, Jokhang Temple continues its role as the spiritual heart of Tibet, maintaining ancient traditions while adapting to the modern world. Its history reflects the resilience of Tibetan culture and the enduring power of faith through centuries of political and social changes.
JOWO SHAKYAMUNI STATUE IN JOKHANG
Jowo means supremacy. Tsongkhapa, who lived in the 14th century and was the founder of the Gelug sect of Tibetan Buddhism, offered to the statue the golden crown with symbols of five Dhyani Buddhas.
Visvakarman erected the statues of eight and twelve-year-old Shakyamuni, and later, Shakyamuni consecrated them. The Jowo Shakyamuni statue had been in Bodhi Gaya in India before the Indian king sent it to the Chinese king as a gift. Later, Princess Wencheng brought the statue to Tibet.
TEMPLE DESIGN & FEATURES: ARCHITECTURE OF JOKHANG
ARCHITECTURAL FUSION
Jokhang Temple represents a remarkable fusion of architectural styles, incorporating elements from Tibet, Nepal, China, and India. The original 7th-century structure was designed by Nepalese artisans with input from Chinese and Indian craftsmen, creating a unique blend that became the template for Tibetan sacred architecture. This cultural convergence is visible in the temple’s three-tiered golden roof, sloped walls, and distinctive entryways that reflect both Central Asian and Himalayan design traditions.
TEMPLE LAYOUT
The temple complex spans approximately 25,000 square meters, with the main building standing four stories tall. The ground floor houses the most sacred chapels and the renowned Jowo Shakyamuni statue, while the upper floors contain additional shrines and living quarters. The structure follows a mandala-like design, with the main shrine at the center and secondary chapels radiating outward in a symbolic representation of Buddhist cosmology. Multiple courtyards divide the space, allowing monks and pilgrims to gather for ceremonies and rituals.
GOLDEN ROOFTOPS & EXTERIOR ELEMENTS
The temple’s most striking feature is its golden roof, which is adorned with intricate decorative elements, including dharma wheels, deer sculptures, and ornate gilded finials that glitter in the intense Tibetan sunlight. Two bronze deer flank a dharma wheel crowns the entrance, symbolizing Buddha’s first sermon at Deer Park. The rooftop terrace offers spectacular panoramic views of Lhasa, the Potala Palace, and the surrounding mountains, making it a favorite vantage point for photographers and visitors.
INTERIOR ARTIFACTS
Within the dimly lit interior, thousands of butter lamps create a magical ambiance around statues of various Buddhist deities. The temple houses numerous treasures, including ancient pillar carvings, ceremonial objects, and exquisitely detailed thangka paintings. Original wooden pillars and door frames from the 7th century display remarkable Newari craftsmanship, while later additions showcase the evolution of Tibetan religious art. The central hall’s high ceiling is supported by carved columns, with every surface adorned with colorful murals depicting Buddhist teachings and historical events.
MURALS & ARTISTIC HERITAGE
Jokhang’s walls feature vibrant murals stretching nearly one kilometer in length, depicting scenes from Buddha’s life, Tibetan history, and the story of Princess Wencheng bringing Buddhism to Tibet. The temple’s artistic treasures include Tang-dynasty bronze sculptures, finely crafted Ming-era figures, and an unparalleled collection of religious artifacts spanning 1,400 years. These artworks not only serve religious purposes but also document the historical and cultural evolution of Tibet through the centuries.
VISITOR RESOURCES
Frequently Asked Questions
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ALTITUDE ADAPTATION TIPS
Lhasa sits at 3,656 meters (12,000 feet) above sea level, and altitude sickness is a real concern for many visitors. Consider these precautions:
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