Barkhor Street
Barkhor Street, a sacred pilgrimage circuit and bustling marketplace in Lhasa, Tibet, stands as a vibrant testament to the region’s spiritual heritage and cultural diversity. Encircling the iconic Jokhang Temple, the 1-kilometer-long street has served as a focal point for Tibetan Buddhism and trade for over 1,300 years. With its cobblestone paths, prayer wheels, and aromatic stalls, Barkhor Street offers a sensory journey through Tibet’s past and present.
Historical Significance
Origins: Established in the 7th century during the reign of King Songtsen Gampo, Barkhor Street emerged alongside the construction of the Jokhang Temple, becoming a pilgrimage route for devotees.
Evolution: Over centuries, it transformed from a religious path into a thriving bazaar, blending spirituality with commerce.
Modern Role: Today, it remains a pilgrimage site and a UNESCO-recognized cultural landscape, preserving Tibetan traditions amid urbanization.
Architectural Features
Jokhang Temple Surroundings: The street’s layout mirrors the temple’s sacred geometry, with whitewashed buildings adorned with prayer flags and intricate woodcarvings.
Pilgrim Pathways: Devotees circumambulate the temple clockwise, spinning prayer wheels and prostrating along the route.
Traditional Houses: Many shops and residences retain Tibetan architectural elements, such as sloping roofs and sun-dried mud bricks.
Cultural and Religious Practices
Pilgrimage Rituals: Visitors witness pilgrims performing kora (circumambulation), carrying mani stones, and offering butter lamps.
Monastic Influence: Monks from nearby monasteries often chant sutras or sell religious artifacts, adding to the spiritual ambiance.
Festivals: During events like Saga Dawa and Losar (Tibetan New Year), the street becomes a hub for masked dances, processions, and offerings.
Shopping and Handicrafts
Thangka Paintings: Elaborate Buddhist scrolls, crafted by skilled artists, depict deities and mandalas.
Tibetan Jewelry: Intricate silver and turquoise necklaces, bracelets, and amulets reflect nomadic and Buddhist motifs.
Textiles: Traditional chubas (robes), pashmina shawls, and namdas (felt rugs) showcase local weaving techniques.
Religious Items: Prayer beads, mani stones, and miniature stupas are popular among tourists and pilgrims alike.
Local Cuisine and Refreshments
Tibetan Tea Houses: Sample butter tea (po cha) and tsampa (roasted barley flour) while soaking in street views.
Street Snacks: Try momos (steamed dumplings), thukpa (noodle soup), and roasted barley cakes.
Sweet Treats: Dried yak cheese and Tibetan honey are sold in charming wooden stalls.
Festivals and Events
Saga Dawa Festival: Celebrates the birth, enlightenment, and death of Buddha, with thousands of pilgrims lighting butter lamps and spinning prayer wheels.
Shoton Festival: Known for its giant thangka unveilings at Drepung Monastery and yak races near Barkhor Street.
New Year Celebrations: Losar markets burst with colorful decorations, traditional music, and family feasts.
Visitor Experiences
Join the Kora: Walk the pilgrimage route with locals, spinning prayer wheels and soaking in the spiritual energy.
Bargain at the Bazaar: Hone haggling skills while browsing handicrafts, but respect cultural norms by avoiding overly aggressive tactics.
Photography Tips: Capture candid moments of pilgrims and artisans, but ask permission for portraits. Early mornings offer soft light and fewer crowds.
Practical Information
Opening Hours: The street is accessible 24/7, but shops typically operate from 9 AM to 8 PM.
Entrance Fees: Free to explore; Jokhang Temple entry requires a ticket (¥85).
Etiquette: Dress modestly, remove hats inside temples, and walk clockwise during kora.
Safety: Stay hydrated at high altitudes, carry sunscreen, and secure belongings in crowded areas.
More popular itineraries
FAQ
What other historical sites are there on Barkhor Street besides Jokhang Temple?
There are many historical sites, such as the former site of the Qing Government in Tibet Grand Minister Administrative City, Gendun Choephel Memorial Hall, and the Tang - Fan Alliance Stele.
Can we tour Barkhor Street at night?
Yes, you can. Barkhor Street at night is very charming. The street lights are on, and you can still see pilgrims circumambulating, with a unique serene and mysterious atmosphere.
What are the traditional festival activities on Barkhor Street?
During festivals such as Tibetan New Year and Shoton Festival, there will be various religious ceremonies and folk activities on Barkhor Street. Pilgrims will gather here to pray, and there are also many traditional cultural performances and food stalls.
Are there any direct buses to Barkhor Street?
Yes, there are. You can take bus No.6, 9, 18, 24, etc., and get off at Health Care Center Station, Lugu Station or Cemelin Station, and then walk to Barkhor Street.
What is the altitude of Barkhor Street?
The altitude of Barkhor Street is about 3,650 meters (11,975 ft), so please pay attention to preventing altitude sickness.
