Introducing Jokhang Temple
The centerpiece of Barkhor Street is the Jokhang Temple, built by Songtsen Gampo to commemorate the arrival of Princess Bhrikuti in Tibet. The temple's original name, "Resa," later became the name of the city, and eventually evolved into today's "Lhasa." Therefore, people often say, "The Jokhang Temple came first, and then Lhasa."
Jokhang Temple, known as the "Eye of Tibet," holds a supreme position in Tibetan religious culture. It has always been the center of major Buddhist ceremonies, attracting a constant stream of pilgrims daily. The temple's most notable attraction is the life-size statue of the twelve-year-old Sakyamuni brought by Princess Wencheng upon her arrival in Tibet. This statue is closely linked to Lhasa's reputation as a "holy land."
To learn about the Jokhang Temple, 7th-century Lhasa, Songtsen Gampo, and Princess Wencheng, you must first see the mural depicting the story of the Jokhang Temple's founding, located to the right of the main hall entrance. Don't forget to ascend to the third-floor platform, which offers a great view of the Potala Palace and Jokhang Square.
Climate and best time to travel
Suitable for all seasons
Recommended number of days and locations for visiting
Recommended visit time: 1-2 hours
Tickets
Peak season (April 21-October 19): 85 yuan/person
Off-season (October 20th - April 20th of the following year): 35 yuan/person
You can enter multiple times after purchasing the ticket
Attraction opening hours
9:00-18:00
Most Popular FAQs for Jokhang Temple
What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?
Jokhang Temple, built in the 7th century, is the spiritual heart of Lhasa and Tibet. It houses the sacred Jowo Shakyamuni statue, making it a major pilgrimage site for Tibetan Buddhists. The temple is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and central to Tibetan religious life.
Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?
- Located in Lhasa city center, near Barkhor Street.
- Accessible by taxi or walking from central Lhasa hotels.
- Public buses stop near Barkhor Street; walking is recommended for full experience of the surrounding area.
What are the opening hours and best times to visit?
- Open daily from 9:00 to 17:00.
- Best visiting times: morning hours to avoid the peak crowds, and May to October for better weather.
What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?
- Entrance fee: approximately 85 CNY for foreigners.
- Tickets can be purchased at the temple ticket office; online booking is available through some travel agencies.
Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?
Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist season. A week in advance is sufficient for most visitors.
How much time is needed to fully explore it?
1–2 hours to explore the temple and its main halls; add extra time if you want to explore Barkhor Street and participate in local rituals.
What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?
- Main Jokhang Temple halls and inner courtyards
- Jowo Rinpoche statue, the most revered object
- Ancient murals, sculptures, and religious artifacts
- Barkhor Street circumambulation path around the temple
Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?
Guided tours are available in English, Chinese, and Tibetan. Audio guides may be offered by some travel agencies in multiple languages.
What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?
- Main temple entrance for architecture photography
- Temple courtyards and prayer halls
- Barkhor Street for capturing local life and cultural rituals
- Nearby rooftops for panoramic views of the temple and city
What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?
- Enter through the main gate, explore the inner halls sequentially.
- Spend time observing rituals around the Jowo Rinpoche statue.
- Walk the circumambulation route along Barkhor Street.
- Visit nearby shops and stalls for souvenirs and local snacks.
Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?
Night visits are generally not allowed inside the temple. Special guided tours may be arranged through travel agencies for cultural insights, but light shows are not part of the experience.
Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?
- Peak crowds occur during Tibetan New Year and mid-summer.
- Least crowded times: early morning on weekdays and May–June or September–October.
What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?
Basic facilities include toilets near the entrance, small snack stalls around Barkhor Street, and souvenir shops. Limited rest areas inside the temple.
Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?
The temple has stairs and narrow corridors; accessibility is limited. Elderly or disabled visitors may need assistance. Children can visit but must be supervised.
Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?
Cash is recommended for small shops and offerings. Major ticket offices and some shops accept mobile payments (WeChat, Alipay).
What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?
- Tibetan restaurants serving momo, thukpa, and traditional butter tea
- Cafes and tea houses along Barkhor Street
- Small street food stalls with snacks and local delicacies
Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?
Vegetarian Tibetan dishes are available; vegan options may be limited. Halal restaurants are scarce but can be found near Lhasa city center.
What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?
- Luxury: St. Regis Lhasa, Tibet Summit Hotel
- Mid-range: Lhasa Hotel, Shambhala Palace Hotel
- Budget: Guesthouses and hostels near Barkhor Street
What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?
- Potala Palace
- Norbulingka Palace
- Sera and Drepung Monasteries
- Barkhor Street and local Tibetan markets
Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?
- Thangka paintings and Tibetan religious items
- Prayer flags and jewelry
- Yak wool products and traditional handicrafts
- Incense and Tibetan teas
What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?
- Walking or taxi to nearby attractions within central Lhasa
- Day trips via private car or tour agencies to surrounding monasteries and lakes
- Train via Qinghai-Tibet Railway or flights from Lhasa Gonggar Airport for longer journeys
