Barkhor

| name = Barkhor | image = | location = Lhasa, Tibet Autonomous Region, China | coordinates =

Barkhor is a sacred path and pilgrimage route encircling the Jokhang Temple, a prominent Buddhist temple in Lhasa, Tibet Autonomous Region, China. This revered path is approximately 1,000 meters long and is an integral part of Tibetan Buddhist culture and tradition. The Barkhor path is lined with numerous stupas, shrines, and monasteries, including the Ramoche Temple and the Potala Palace, the former residence of the Dalai Lama. The path is also dotted with shops selling Tibetan art, Buddhist artifacts, and souvenirs.

Etymology

The name "Barkhor" is derived from the Tibetan language, with "bar" meaning "outside" and "khor" meaning "circle" or "ring". The Barkhor path is essentially a circular route that surrounds the Jokhang Temple, which is considered the spiritual heart of Tibet. The path has been an important pilgrimage route for centuries, attracting devotees from all over Tibet, Nepal, India, and other parts of the Himalayas.

Geography and Layout

The Barkhor path is situated in the heart of Lhasa, the capital city of the Tibet Autonomous Region. The path is approximately 1,000 meters long and encircles the Jokhang Temple, which is located at an altitude of 3,490 meters above sea level. The path is relatively flat and is paved with stone, making it accessible to pilgrims and tourists alike. The Barkhor path is surrounded by numerous stupas, shrines, and monasteries, including the Potala Palace, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

History

The Barkhor path has a rich history dating back to the 7th century, when the Jokhang Temple was built during the reign of Songtsen Gampo, the founder of the Tibetan Empire. The path has been an important pilgrimage route for centuries, with many Tibetan Buddhists and Hindu pilgrims visiting the site to pay homage to the Jokhang Temple and other sacred sites along the path. The Barkhor path has also played a significant role in the development of Tibetan art, architecture, and culture.

Cultural Significance

The Barkhor path holds immense cultural significance in Tibetan Buddhism and is considered a sacred site. The path is lined with numerous stupas, shrines, and monasteries, which are believed to possess spiritual energy. The path is also home to numerous Tibetan art and Buddhist artifacts, including thangkas, statues, and murals. The Barkhor path is an important symbol of Tibetan culture and tradition, and its preservation is essential for the promotion of cultural heritage.

Pilgrimage and Tourism

The Barkhor path is an important pilgrimage site for Tibetan Buddhists and Hindu devotees. Many pilgrims visit the site to circumambulate the Jokhang Temple and other sacred sites along the path. The path is also a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over the world. The Chinese government has implemented measures to preserve the path and its surrounding sites, including the restoration of stupas and monasteries and the promotion of sustainable tourism. Visitors to the Barkhor path are required to follow certain rules and regulations, including the removal of shoes and the dressing modestly.