Jokhang Temple

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Why
Jokhang Temple
is special

The Johkhang Temple is widely considered Tibet's most sacred site. Pilgrims (some on foot) come from all corners of Tibet to worship here. Though many tourists come inside, the temple sustains a deep, timeless religious ambiance.

Jokhang Temple
tips & insights

Jowa Buddha statue

The golden Jowa Buddha statue is the most venerated religious object in the Jokhang Temple. It is a rare statue of Buddha when he was a 12 year old boy. This golden statuary was brought to Tibet by the 7th century Chinese Princess Wencheng as part of her dowry.

Dharma wheel

The second best known object in Jokhang Temple is the eight spoked Dharma wheel that conspicuously sits atop the complex's main entrance. Each spoke represents one of the eight fold paths to enlightenment, a core tenet of Buddhism.

Other must-sees

Entrance area
Just outside this Jokhang Temple's gate are supplicants prostrating themselves as they slowly make their way to the entryway.
Chapels
Jokhang Temple has many chapels, mystically lit with yak-butter lamps, and sometimes graced with mantra chanting lamas.
More
Other exciting facets of the Jokhang Temple include interesting roofs (see photo), courtyards, and ancient wall murals.

Construction history

The Jokhang temple dates back nearly 1300 years, but most of what you see was built four centuries ago by the Fifth Dalai Lama.

Jokhang Temple location

It is in the middle of the old section of Lhasa, the capital of Tibet (Xizang is its Chinese name). 

Barkhor Market

After your visit to the Jokhang Temple, explore the Barkhor Market, which surrounds the temple. The tightly backed stalls evoke the essence of traditional Tibetan city bazaars.

Pronunciation guide

Jokhang:  joe-khah'ng

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