Famous Pilgrimage Routes & Religious Sites in Lhasa, China

1. Potala Palace

Iconic 17th-century palace of the Dalai Lama, now a museum. Offers panoramic views of Lhasa and houses thousands of Buddhist scriptures.

Historic Site: One of the most visited historical sites in Tibet
Architectural Marvel: Combines Tibetan, Nepalese and Han Chinese architectural styles
Spiritual Center: Symbolizes the political and religious power of the Dalai Lama

647 AD Buddhist temple considered the spiritual heart of Tibet. Holds the Jowo Rinpung statue of Sakyamuni at its core.

Spiritual Significance: The most sacred and holy temple for all Tibetan Buddhists
Artistic Wonders: Houses countless ancient statues and murals of exquisite beauty
Pilgrimage Route: Part of the Barkhor Street circuit, a mandatory pilgrimage for Tibetan Buddhists

Circuit street surrounding Jokhang Temple. A bustling market filled with traditional Tibetan shops and teahouses.

Lively Marketplace: Shop for traditional Tibetan art, handicrafts, clothing and souvenirs
Spiritual Walkway: Walk the route followed by pilgrims circumambulating Jokhang Temple
Cultural Experience: Experience Tibetan culture, food and traditions in a vibrant setting

15th-century monastery known for its debate sessions. Boasts beautiful Tibetan-style architecture and lush gardens.

Debate Sessions: Witness the unique Buddhist philosophical debates of monks
Architectural Marvel: Aesthetic blend of Tibetan, Chinese and Nepalese architectural styles
Peaceful Retreat: Relax in the tranquil monastery gardens or attend daily prayer ceremonies

One of the largest and most influential monasteries in Tibet. Known for its striking white walls and golden roofs.

Monastic Complex: Visit the massive monastic complex housing thousands of monks
Architectural Grandeur: Admire the intricate murals, statues and thangkas within its halls
Historical Insights: Learn about Tibetan Buddhism and the life of a monk in this monastery

Summer palace of the Dalai Lama with beautiful gardens and traditional Tibetan architecture.

Royal Retreat: Experience the opulence of a royal Tibetan residence
Garden Beauty: Explore lush, colorful gardens filled with exotic flora and fauna
Cultural Showcase: Enjoy traditional Tibetan dances, operas, and other performances

Seat of the Nechung protector deity. Famous for its annual Thangka procession.

Protective Deity: Pray for protection and blessings from the Nechung protector
Thangka Procession: Witness a mesmerizing display of Tibetan art and spirituality
Monastic Life: Glimpse the daily rituals and practices of the resident monks

First Tibetan Buddhist monastery built in the 8th century. Known for its unique nine-storey mandala.

Historical Significance: Experience the rich history and heritage of Tibetan Buddhism
Architectural Marvel: Marvel at the intricate carvings and murals inside its halls
Tibetan Art & Culture: Understand Tibetan art, symbolism and architectural styles

609 AD temple housing a statue of Buddha Sakyamuni. Located at the base of the Potala Palace.

Historical Significance: Witness an important historical religious site in Lhasa
Architectural Interest: Appreciate the harmonious blend of Tibetan, Nepalese and Han Chinese architecture
Religious Significance: Visit a sacred site where religious rituals and ceremonies are performed

1447 AD monastery of the Panchen Lama. Known for its enormous copper-roofed main hall.

Historical Significance: Learn about the life and role of the Panchen Lama in Tibetan Buddhism
Architectural Wonder: Admire the immense main hall, the largest in Tibet
Monastic Life: Observe the daily rituals and practices of the resident monks

Monastery founded in 1405 by the first Trandruk Rinpoche. Known for its beautiful murals and thangkas.

Historical Significance: Explore an important historical religious site in Lhasa
Artistic Wonders: Appreciate the stunning murals and thangkas within its halls
Monastic Life: Glimpse the daily rituals and practices of the resident monks

The former summer palace of the Dalai Lamas. Exhibits Tibetan art, historical relics and thangkas.

Royal Retreat: Experience the opulence of a royal Tibetan residence
Artistic Wonders: Appreciate the stunning thangkas and art collections
Historical Insights: Learn about Tibetan history, culture and the life of a Dalai Lama

Residential college for monks at Sera Monastery. Known for its unique debating practices.

Monastic Life: Glimpse the daily life and activities of Tibetan Buddhist monks
Debate Sessions: Witness the unique debating practices of Tibetan Buddhist monks
Cultural Experience: Experience traditional Tibetan culture in a unique setting

Founded by Tsongkhapa in the 15th century. Known for its beautiful murals and spectacular views.

Historical Significance: Learn about the life and teachings of Tsongkhapa
Artistic Wonders: Appreciate the beautiful murals and stunning views of the surrounding valley
Monastic Life: Glimpse the daily rituals and practices of the resident monks

Group of meditation caves dating back to the 7th century. Offers tranquil and spiritual solace.

Historical Significance: Experience an important historical religious site in Lhasa
Spiritual Retreat: Find tranquility and peace in the peaceful surroundings
Cultural Experience: Connect with your inner self and Tibetan spirituality