JOKHANG

Jokhang , also known as Qoikang Monastery, is a Buddhist temple on Barkhor Square in Lhasa. Tibetans generally consider this temple to be the most sacred temple in Tibet. The temple is currently run by the Gelug sect, but they accept worshipers from all sects of Buddhism. The temple, considered the "spiritual heart of the city" and the holiest in Tibet, is at the center of Lhasa's network of ancient Buddhist temples. It is the focal point of commercial activity in the city, with a maze of streets radiating from it. Jokhang is located 1,000 meters (3,300 ft) east of the Potala Palace. Barkhor, the market square in the center of Lhasa, has a path for pilgrims to walk around the temple (which takes about 20 minutes). Barkhor Square is marked with four stone sankang (incense burners), two of which are in front of the temple and two at the back. Jokhang was originally built to house a Buddha statue brought to Tibet by the wife of King Songtsen Gampo who was from Nepal. However, another image, Jowa Sakyamuni, was later transferred here by another wife of the king (Princess Wencheng of China), and it is this image that gives Jokhang its name and spiritual potential: Jokhang means 'Jowo chapel'. Tourists can only visit Jokhang Temple in the afternoon; the morning is reserved for the pilgrims. The best way to enjoy the temple is to arrive at 8am to watch the pilgrims perform their worship, then visit the interior in the afternoon. The temple was relatively quiet at that time, except for the presence of a Chinese student tour guide. #themeparks#nationalpark#lakes#beaches#infinitypool