Barkhor Street

Located in the old city of Lhasa, Barkhor Street is famous for its pilgrim circuit and lively market. With a history of more than 1,300 years, it is now one of the most popular areas for shopping and sightseeing around the Jokhang Temple. The pilgrim circuit is approximately 1,000 meters long. What began as a path for pilgrims has developed over the centuries into a historic neighborhood of traditional buildings, shops, and streets surrounding the Jokhang Temple. 

Watch the video below to experience the atmosphere of Barkhor Street and see its traditional streets, shops, and religious activities.

History and Development of Barkhor Street

In the 7th century, Songtsen Gampo, the powerful king of ancient Tibet, ordered the construction of the Jokhang Temple. At the same time, four palaces were built around the temple for Songtsen Gampo and his consorts. These were among the earliest buildings in the area now known as Barkhor Street.

After the Jokhang Temple was completed, increasing numbers of pilgrims came to worship and gradually formed a path around the temple. This marked the early development of Barkhor Street. Later, approximately 18 family-owned buildings were established around the Jokhang Temple to provide accommodation and meals for pilgrims and traders. The area gradually developed from a pilgrim circuit into a bustling historic neighborhood.

The Jokhang Temple became the center of Buddhism in Lhasa by the 15th century. Many Buddhists moved there because of their religious beliefs. As a result, numerous Buddhist buildings, including monks' dormitories, religious schools, and small temples, were established around the Jokhang Temple. Many folk houses, shops, hotels, and handicraft workshops also opened to serve visitors.

The Jokhang Temple became increasingly important to Buddhists, many of whom believed that pilgrims should walk clockwise around the sacred temple to pay respects to the golden statue of Sakyamuni inside. In the following centuries, traders and pilgrims from Mongolia, mainland China, Kashmir, Nepal, Bhutan, and India came to Lhasa and settled in the area.

Today, Barkhor Street combines religious significance with sightseeing, culture, commerce, and shopping.

Exploring Barkhor Street

Barkhor Street preserves the traditional character of Lhasa's old city. The streets are paved with hand-polished stones, and the traditional buildings on both sides are well maintained. A large incense burner stands in the center of the street, with incense burning day and night.

The street is home to more than 120 handicraft shops and 200 stalls selling over 8,000 types of local specialties. Visitors can find some of Tibet's most representative products, including Buddha statues, prayer wheels, Tibetan knives, highland barley wine, and thangka paintings. Goods from India, Nepal, Myanmar, and Kashmir are also available.

A popular attraction on Barkhor Street is Makye Ame, a two-story building associated with the Sixth Dalai Lama. According to legend, the talented and romantic poet traveled across Tibet in search of the Supreme Tara. One day, while sitting in a tavern, he saw a beautiful woman open the curtain and look inside. This encounter is said to have marked the beginning of a moving love story.

Barkhor Street remains an important place to experience Lhasa's religious traditions, local culture, and historic streets. Its combination of pilgrimage, traditional architecture, and local commerce makes it a notable stop for travelers exploring Lhasa.