Jokhang Temple – The Spiritual Heart of Tibetan Buddhism

Introduction to Jokhang Temple

Jokhang Temple, known in Tibetan as “Jokhang” or “Tsuklakang,” is regarded as the ultimate destination for Tibetan Buddhist pilgrims. In the hearts of the faithful, the sanctity of Jokhang Temple rivals even that of the Potala Palace. Both geographically and spiritually, Jokhang Temple holds a central place in Tibetan Buddhism and is considered one of its most sacred sites.

The temple was built in the mid-7th century AD by Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo to house a life-sized statue of the 8-year-old Shakyamuni Buddha, brought from Kathmandu by his Nepalese queen, Princess Bhrikuti. In 1409, Tsongkhapa—the founder of the Gelug school—preached the Dharma at Jokhang Temple and established the Great Prayer Festival (Monlam Chenmo), solidifying the temple’s status as a vital center of Tibetan Buddhism.

In the 8th century, another significant relic—a life-sized statue of the 12-year-old Shakyamuni Buddha—was brought by Chinese Princess Wencheng from Chang’an (present-day Xi’an) and enshrined in the temple. Today, this statue is one of the temple’s most revered treasures and a must-see for both pilgrims and visitors.

Art and Architecture

The temple is home to several valuable works of art, including nearly a kilometer of Tibetan-style murals such as Princess Wencheng’s Journey to Tibet and The Construction of Jokhang Temple. There are also two exquisite Ming Dynasty embroidered thangkas depicting wrathful deities—true masterpieces of Tibetan religious art.

Kora Routes (Pilgrimage Paths)

Lhasa has three concentric pilgrimage circuits, all centered on Jokhang Temple:

• Inner Kora (Nangkor): A clockwise path inside the temple encircling the Thousand Buddha Hall and the Jokhang main hall.
• Middle Kora (Barkhor): A circular path around the outer perimeter of Jokhang Temple.
• Outer Kora (Lingkhor): A much longer route encircling Potala Palace, Medicine King Mountain, Ramoche Temple, and Jokhang Temple.

Tour Highlights

Entering through the temple’s main gate, you arrive in a courtyard. On the east side, rows of butter lamps burn continuously, maintained daily by devoted worshippers. Beyond the butter lamps lies the main entrance to Jokhang Temple. To the left of the door stands a statue of Padmasambhava, founder of the Nyingma school, while on the right is Jampa (Maitreya), the Future Buddha.

On the wall to the right, you’ll find a mural illustrating the story of Jokhang’s construction—including a depiction of the Potala Palace in the 7th century and scenes of the lake being filled to build the temple.

Continuing clockwise, you’ll enter a shrine dedicated to Tsongkhapa and his eight principal disciples. As you move onward, you’ll pass the Yaksha Hall and Dragon King Hall. Beyond hundreds of butter lamps lies the famed Jokhang Main Hall, or “Jokhang” proper—both the heart and soul of the temple.

At the center of this hall is the Main Assembly Hall, where monks chant and practice daily. Surrounding it are smaller chapels, but the centerpiece is the Shakyamuni Buddha Hall, which houses the golden life-sized statue of the 12-year-old Buddha brought by Princess Wencheng. This statue is the spiritual core of Jokhang and the most sacred destination for pilgrims.

A staircase near the courtyard leads to the second and third floors.

• On the second floor, you’ll find the Royal Shrine dedicated to King Songtsen Gampo, Princess Wencheng, and Princess Bhrikuti, as well as a chapel honoring the protector deity Palden Lhamo. The spacious terrace here offers a breathtaking view of the Potala Palace, making it a perfect photo spot.
• The third floor houses Jokhang Temple’s Golden Roofs, another major attraction. Though usually closed to the public, those lucky enough to access it are rewarded with the sight of four golden, intricately designed rooftops gleaming in the sunlight—truly awe-inspiring.

Opening Hours

Open year-round: 08:30–18:30

Preferential Policy

• Children: Free admission for children aged 10 and under (inclusive)