Introducing Barkhor Street
Barkhor Street, also known as Eight-Cornered Street, is located in Lhasa's Old City. Built around the Jokhang Temple, it is Lhasa's bustling commercial street. It embodies Lhasa's religion, economy, culture, ethnic handicrafts, and even Tibetan customs and practices, making it a must-see for travelers to Lhasa. Barkhor Street is circular, resembling a giant clock, with the magnificent Jokhang Temple serving as the clock's axis.
Climate and best time to travel
Suitable for all seasons
Recommended number of days and locations for visiting
The houses along Barkhor Street are basically Tibetan-style shops selling various Tibetan clothing, handicrafts, etc., as well as some small commodities from India and Nepal.
Recommended playing time: about 1-2 hours
Tickets
free
Attraction opening hours
All day
Most Popular FAQs for Barkhor Street
What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?
Barkhor Street encircles the Jokhang Temple and has been a center of religious and commercial life in Lhasa for centuries. It is an important pilgrimage path and market, representing Tibetan cultural heritage and traditional crafts.
Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?
Located in central Lhasa, surrounding Jokhang Temple. Best accessed by walking from nearby hotels, or by taxi from other parts of the city. Public buses stop nearby, but walking is recommended to experience the full street.
What are the opening hours and best times to visit?
- The street is open 24 hours, though shops usually operate from 8:00 to 20:00.
- Best times to visit are mornings or weekdays to avoid peak crowds, and May–October for better weather.
What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?
No entrance fee is required to walk along Barkhor Street. Certain shops or nearby attractions may charge fees separately.
Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?
Not required for Barkhor Street itself.
How much time is needed to fully explore it?
1–2 hours to walk the full circumambulation and explore shops; longer if you plan to shop or photograph extensively.
What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?
- Jokhang Temple view points from the street
- Prayer wheels and shrines along the path
- Local markets and handicraft stalls
- Traditional Tibetan houses and street architecture
Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?
Guided walking tours are available in English, Chinese, and Tibetan, usually organized through travel agencies. Audio guides are uncommon.
What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?
- Corner views encircling Jokhang Temple
- Shopfronts and street markets with prayer flags
- Close-up of pilgrims performing kora and spinning prayer wheels
- Evening street scenes with lights and local activity
What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?
- Start at the northern entrance near Jokhang Temple, follow the circumambulation clockwise.
- Pause at prayer wheels and shrines along the way.
- Explore side alleys and market stalls for handicrafts and food.
- End back near Jokhang Temple, optionally entering the temple complex.
Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?
Night visits are allowed for strolling the street, but shops may be closed. No official light shows, though the street is often lit up at night.
Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?
- Peak crowd: Tibetan New Year, summer holidays, and weekends.
- Least crowded: Early mornings on weekdays, May–June or September–October.
What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?
Several public toilets, street food stalls, small cafes, souvenir shops, and benches in certain areas. Water and refreshments are available from shops.
Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?
Mostly flat and walkable for elderly and children. Some crowded areas may be challenging for wheelchair users; assistance is recommended.
Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?
Cash is preferred for small stalls; some larger shops accept mobile payments (WeChat, Alipay).
What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?
- Tibetan restaurants serving momo, thukpa, and butter tea
- Cafes and tea houses along Barkhor Street and side alleys
- Street vendors offering snacks and local specialties
Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?
Vegetarian options available; vegan choices limited. Halal options are scarce but present in central Lhasa.
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 Jokhang Temple
What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?
- Jokhang Temple
- Potala Palace
- Sera Monastery
- Local Tibetan markets and shops along the streets
Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?
- Thangka paintings
- Prayer flags and wheels
- Yak wool products and jewelry
- Traditional Tibetan crafts and incense
What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?
- Walking or taxi to nearby Lhasa attractions
- Private car or tour agencies for day trips outside the city
- Train or flight connections from Lhasa for longer journeys
