Lhasa means “Land of the Gods”. This is the capital city of Tibet and is established on the northern inclines of the Himalaya Mountains, it is the genuine heart of Tibet. It is a phenomenal city which is found on the travel goals of all travelers here. Over 1,300 years of age, Lhasa is situated alongside the stream with a similar name, bearing it staggering perspectives. Going to this city is more spiritual experience, not as a result of the picturesque attraction of this mountainous region, but as a result of the Tibetan impact.
To feelthe Tibet, reach out to the Jokhang
For a more conventional Tibetan feel, the eastern end of Lhasa is perfect. Visit the Jokhang and the Barkhor to see conventional dress, local people spinning prayer wheels. The western end of the city has the more Chinese impact. The assorted variety between the eastern and western segments of the city can be astonishing to outside guests. The Jokhang Temple is an absolute traveler goal of Lhasa. This temple was built in the seventh century AD; it was developed to house statues of Buddha. Throughout the hundreds of years, the sanctuary has been amplified and houses numerous chronicled statues of past rulers and their ladies.
The Jokhang paved the way of Buddhism in Tibet –
The Jokhang Temple, which is a standout amongst the most blessed and hallowed spots of worship by the Tibetans. It covers a zone of 6 acres and is known for the well known statue of Buddha that it houses. It additionally denotes the advent of Buddhism in to Tibet. It was simply after this temple was built that Buddhism developed to its present position in Tibet.
The Jokhang Temple was built by the first King of Tibet Songtsem Gampo as premises for the Buddha statues that were purchased by his Nepalese and Tang spouses. The temple has been revamped numerous times under the Yuan, the Ming and the Qing dynasties. The UNESCO has declared this temple as the world heritage site.
This temple make of timber was destroyed by the many invaders and rebuilt many times –
The temple is mostly Timber and is divided into four stories. The tops of the domes are golden while the entire temple is open air. The central square is for the complete view of the whole temple. The architecture of the temple is Tang as well as Nepalese.
It is also believed that the original temple was built seeking inspiration from the Indian Vihara design. There are two golden deer guarding the wheel of Dharma that stand atop the main hall. This temple was looted several times by the Mongols; however this hall survived all the annihilation. The hall has many pillars that are adorned with various religious items. The famous Sakyamuni statue sits here. The statue depicts the great Buddha at the age of twelve. There were only three statues of Buddha that he allowed to be made during his lifetime.