Jokhang Temple

Overview

The Jokhang Temple is the spiritual heart of Tibet and the holiest destination for Tibetan Buddhist pilgrims. Founded in 647 CE by King Songtsen Gampo, it houses the Jowo Rinpoche, a life-size statue of Shakyamuni Buddha at age twelve, widely regarded as the most sacred object in Tibetan Buddhism. The temple was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2000 as part of the Potala Palace extension.

Highlights

• Jowo Rinpoche Statue: The gilded bronze statue brought from China by Princess Wencheng in the 7th century — pilgrims prostrate before it after walking thousands of kilometers.
• Rooftop Chapel: The upper floor offers close-up views of the golden dharma wheels and deer statues, with the Potala Palace framed in the background.
• Pilgrims' Processions: The courtyard fills daily with devotees performing full-body prostrations on polished flagstones.

History

Legend holds that King Songtsen Gampo built the temple to house sacred Buddha images brought by his Nepali and Chinese wives. The structure blends Indian vihara, Tibetan, and Nepalese architectural styles and has been rebuilt and expanded many times over 1,400 years.

Visitor Tips

• Tip 1: Visit early morning (before 11:30) when the temple is open to pilgrims; tourists are usually admitted from noon onward.
• Tip 2: Walk clockwise through the temple and around it, following the pilgrimage direction.
• Duration: 1.5–2 hours.