Jokhang Temple

The Jokhang Temple, located in the heart of Lhasa's Barkhor Square, is historically and spiritually the most sacred temple in Tibetan Buddhism. Its founding dates back to the 7th century CE, during the reign of the Tibetan Emperor Songtsen Gampo (c. 605–650 CE), who played a pivotal role in introducing Buddhism to Tibet. Tradition credits its establishment to his two foreign wives: Princess Wencheng of the Chinese Tang Dynasty and Princess Bhrikuti of Nepal. Both are said to have brought highly revered statues of the Buddha to Tibet as part of their dowries. The temple was primarily built to house the Jowo Shakyamuni statue brought by Princess Wencheng, an image believed to have been blessed by the Buddha himself and representing him at age 12. Architecturally, Jokhang is a unique synthesis, reflecting the diverse influences on early Tibetan culture. Its basic layout resembles an Indian vihara (monastery), while structural and decorative elements show clear influences from Tang Dynasty China (e.g., roof styles) and the Newar artistic traditions of Nepal (e.g., intricate wood carvings, metalwork), brought by artisans accompanying Princess Bhrikuti. Over the centuries, Jokhang was expanded and embellished by various Tibetan rulers and religious figures, including the Dalai Lamas (especially the Fifth Dalai Lama in the 17th century). It served as the venue for important state ceremonies and the annual Great Prayer Festival (Monlam Chenmo). Despite periods of neglect (like under the anti-Buddhist king Langdarma in the 9th C) and significant damage during the Chinese Cultural Revolution (1960s), the temple has been subsequently restored. It remains the focal point of pilgrimage for Tibetans from all traditions, housing the Jowo Rinpoche, and is recognized as part of the Potala Palace UNESCO World Heritage site, embodying the heart of Tibetan spiritual identity.