1. What are some must-visit historical landmarks in Lhasa?
1. Potala Palace
2. Jokhang Temple
3. Barkhor Street
4. Sera Monastery
5. Drepung Monastery
6. Norbulingka Palace
7. Ramoche Temple
8. Ganden Monastery
9. Drak Yerpa Monastery
10. Tibet Museum
2. How does the Potala Palace contribute to the rich history of Lhasa?
The Potala Palace is one of the most iconic and historically significant landmarks in Lhasa. It was originally built in the 7th century as a fortress by King Songtsen Gampo, but it later became the main residence of the Dalai Lama.
1. Seat of Political Power:
The Potala Palace served as the seat of political power for Tibetan rulers. It was here that decisions were made, laws were passed, and ceremonies were held. It also housed the central government offices and important administrative departments.
2. Religious Center:
The Potala Palace is considered to be a sacred site in Buddhism, as it houses numerous shrines, chapels, and meditation rooms. The palace has also been a center for spiritual teaching and learning, attracting monks and religious scholars from all over Tibet.
3. Home of the Dalai Lama:
Since the 17th century, the Potala Palace has been the official residence of the Dalai Lama. The palace was not only his home but also where he carried out his political duties and received foreign dignitaries. The Dalai Lama’s presence in the palace gave it even greater significance as a symbol of Tibetan culture and identity.
4. Architectural Wonder:
The Potala Palace is an architectural marvel that showcases Tibetan craftsmanship and engineering skills. It is built on top of Marpo Ri (Red Hill) at an altitude of 3,700 meters with over 1000 rooms spread across 13 stories. Its intricate design and grandeur leave visitors awestruck.
5. Preservation of History:
As one of the oldest surviving structures in Lhasa, the Potala Palace has borne witness to various historical events such as wars, invasions, and cultural changes. It has also played a crucial role in preserving Tibet’s rich history and cultural heritage through its valuable collections of artifacts, religious manuscripts, statues, paintings, and other treasures.
6. Symbol of Unity:
The Potala Palace has been a symbol of national unity and solidarity for the Tibetan people, especially during times of political and cultural upheaval. It continues to hold great significance in the hearts and minds of Tibetans as a unifying force that represents their shared history and identity.
In conclusion, the Potala Palace is not only a magnificent architectural wonder but also a site of great historical, religious, and cultural importance. It remains an integral part of Lhasa’s rich history and continues to play a vital role in shaping the city’s present and future.
3. Can you suggest any lesser-known but equally fascinating sights in Lhasa?
Some lesser-known but equally fascinating sights in Lhasa include:1. The Ganden Monastery: Located about 45 kilometers away from Lhasa, the Ganden Monastery is one of the three great Gelugpa monasteries in Tibet. It is known for its beautiful architecture, ancient scriptures, and peaceful atmosphere.
2. Pabongka Monastery: Situated on a hilltop overlooking the Yarlung Tsangpo River, this monastery is home to a rare statue of Guru Rinpoche or Padmasambhava – the founder of Tibetan Buddhism.
3. Norbulingka Palace: This summer palace was once the residence of the Dalai Lama. The expansive garden complex includes several palaces, pavilions, and gardens that showcase traditional Tibetan architecture and design.
4. Rock painting sites: There are numerous rock painting sites scattered around Lhasa, which offer a glimpse into the ancient culture and history of Tibet. These paintings depict scenes from daily life, religious figures, and animals.
5. Drak Yerpa Hermitage: Tucked away in a scenic valley about 17 kilometers northeast of Lhasa lies this ancient hermitage that has been used as a meditation retreat by many renowned Tibetan masters over the centuries.
6. Chakpori Hill: Located right behind the Potala Palace, this hill offers stunning views of Lhasa city and its surrounding mountains. It is also home to several important temples and hermitages.
7. Barkhor Street: While not exactly “lesser-known,” Barkhor Street is often overlooked by tourists in favor of more popular attractions. However, this bustling market street filled with local vendors selling everything from traditional handicrafts to religious artifacts is truly a window into Tibetan culture.
8. Samye Monastery: Although located outside of Lhasa (approximately 150 kilometers), Samye Monastery is worth a visit for its unique architectural style that combines Indian, Chinese, and Tibetan elements. It is also the first monastery built in Tibet.
9. Sera Monastery Debate: A lesser-known but equally exciting activity is witnessing the lively debates between the monks at Sera Monastery. These debates follow a traditional format and are held daily in the courtyard of the monastery.
10. Namtso Lake: Another destination outside of Lhasa (approximately 250 kilometers), Namtso Lake is one of the most sacred lakes in Tibet and offers breathtaking views of mountains and clear blue waters. It can be visited as a day trip from Lhasa or combined with a longer journey to Mount Everest Base Camp.
4. What makes the Jokhang Temple a significant pilgrimage site for Buddhists?
The Jokhang Temple is considered to be a significant pilgrimage site for Buddhists because it houses a life-sized statue of Buddha Shakyamuni, which is believed to be the most sacred and holiest statue in Tibet. It is also believed to have been blessed by Buddha himself, making it even more sacred. Additionally, the temple is located in the heart of Lhasa, the capital city of Tibet, and is surrounded by other important Buddhist sites such as the Potala Palace. It symbolizes the spiritual and cultural center of Tibetan Buddhism and has been an important destination for pilgrims for centuries.
5. How has the Norbulingka Palace evolved over time and what purpose does it serve now?
The Norbulingka Palace, also known as the Summer Palace of Lhasa, has evolved over time to serve multiple purposes. It was originally built by the 7th Dalai Lama in the 1750s as a retreat and summer residence for the Dalai Lamas, away from the hustle and bustle of central Lhasa.
Over the years, it expanded to become a luxurious complex with multiple palaces, pavilions, gardens, and lakes. Each successive Dalai Lama added his own touches to the palace, making it a beautiful fusion of Tibetan and Chinese architectural styles.
Under the rule of the 13th Dalai Lama in the early 20th century, Norbulingka became not just a summer residence but also a center for political affairs and religious ceremonies. It served as an important cultural and religious hub for Tibetans, hosting festivals and celebrations such as the annual Sho Dun Festival.
However, with China’s invasion and occupation of Tibet in 1959, many significant structures at Norbulingka were destroyed or damaged. The palace was converted into a public park by the Chinese government in order to showcase Tibetan culture to tourists.
Today, Norbulingka serves primarily as a tourist attraction and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can take guided tours of its numerous buildings and gardens adorned with intricate murals, sculptures, and artifacts that provide insight into Tibetan culture and history.
In addition to tourism, Norbulingka also serves as an important cultural preservation site. Many traditional Tibetan arts such as Thangka paintings, woodcarving, metalwork, and embroidery are still practiced here by skilled artists who are passing on these ancient techniques to future generations.
Overall, while its role may have shifted over time from a private retreat for spiritual leaders to a public attraction promoting tourism and cultural heritage preservation under Chinese rule, one thing remains constant – Norbulingka continues to hold immense significance in Tibetan culture and remains a symbol of the country’s rich history and traditions.
6. Are there any guided tours available for exploring the ancient Barkhor Street?
Yes, there are guided tours available for exploring the ancient Barkhor Street. Most of these tours are organized by local travel agencies or tour companies in Lhasa. These tours usually include a guide who is knowledgeable about the history and culture of Barkhor Street and its surrounding areas. The guided tours also provide visitors with valuable insights on the significance and meaning of the various temples and shops along the street. Some tours may also offer additional activities such as trying local foods and participating in traditional ceremonies or rituals.
7. What is the role of Lhasa’s Drepung Monastery in Tibetan Buddhism and culture?
Drepung Monastery, located in Lhasa, Tibet, is one of the three major monasteries in the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism. It was founded in 1416 by Jamyang Choge Tashi Pelden and became a center for Buddhist learning and practice.
1. Religious Center: Drepung Monastery served as a major religious center for Tibetan Buddhism, attracting thousands of monks and pilgrims from all over Tibet. It was the site of important religious ceremonies and rituals, including the famous Monlam prayer festival.
2. Education: The monastery was also an important place for education in Tibetan Buddhism. It housed a vast collection of religious texts and hosted many renowned scholars who taught various subjects such as philosophy, logic, medicine, and astrology.
3. Political Influence: Drepung Monastery played a significant role in Tibetan politics, with many high-ranking lamas serving as advisers to the Dalai Lama. It also maintained close ties with the ruling government in Tibet and wielded considerable political influence.
4. Cultural Preservation: The monastery’s extensive collection of art, scriptures, and religious objects has helped preserve Tibetan culture for centuries. Many valuable artifacts from Drepung Monastery are now housed in museums around the world.
5. Pilgrimage Site: Drepung Monastery is considered a sacred pilgrimage site for Buddhists and is visited by thousands of pilgrims each year. Pilgrims come to pay their respects to the historical relics enshrined within its walls and participate in spiritual activities such as prostrating and chanting prayers.
6. Economic Center: The monastery also served as an economic center for Tibet, with its large population supporting local businesses such as crafts workshops and trade fairs.
7. Spiritual Impact: Drepung Monastery has had a profound spiritual impact on Tibetan society and continues to be highly revered by devout followers of Buddhism. Its teachings on compassion, wisdom, and enlightenment have influenced generations of Tibetans and continue to be relevant in modern times.
8. How long does it take to reach the Yamdrok Lake from Lhasa and why is it a must-see natural attraction?
It takes about 3-4 hours to reach Yamdrok Lake from Lhasa, depending on the traffic and road conditions. It is a must-see natural attraction because of its stunning scenery and spiritual significance to Tibetan Buddhism.
The lake is located at an altitude of about 4,400 meters and is surrounded by snow-capped mountains, making it a popular spot for photography and sightseeing. The crystal-clear water of the lake reflects the surrounding mountains and creates a breathtaking panoramic view.
In addition, Yamdrok Lake is considered a sacred site by Tibetans and is believed to be a manifestation of Tara, a female deity in Tibetan Buddhism. It is also one of the four holy lakes of Tibet and pilgrims often make their way here to pray and offer offerings.
The area around the lake is also home to several monasteries and hermitages, adding to its spiritual atmosphere. For these reasons, Yamdrok Lake is not only a stunning natural wonder but also an important cultural and religious site that should not be missed when visiting Lhasa.
9. Is there any particular season better suited for visiting Lhasa’s historical landmarks and sightseeing spots?
The best time to visit Lhasa’s historical landmarks and sightseeing spots is from April to October, during the region’s peak season. During this time, the weather is generally mild and dry, making it easier for travelers to explore the city on foot or by bike. Another advantage of visiting during this time is that many festivals and cultural events take place in Lhasa, offering visitors a chance to experience local traditions and customs.
However, if you prefer fewer crowds and lower prices, you may want to consider visiting during the off-peak season from November to March. The winter months can be cold, but the landscape is stunning with snow-capped mountains and there are still plenty of indoor attractions to explore in Lhasa. Just be aware that some sites may have limited opening hours during the off-season.
Ultimately, the best time to visit Lhasa will depend on your personal preferences and travel style. Do some research on what activities and experiences you’re most interested in and plan your trip accordingly.
10. How have the iconic white stupas at Sera Monastery been preserved through centuries of history?
The iconic white stupas at Sera Monastery have been preserved through centuries of history due to their cultural and religious significance, as well as the efforts of the monks and local community.
1. Restoration and Repair: The stupas have undergone regular restoration and repair works over the years to maintain their structural integrity. The monastery has a team of skilled craftsmen who are trained in traditional building techniques and materials, ensuring that any repairs are done in accordance with historical methods.
2. Religious Significance: The white stupas hold immense religious significance for the Tibetan Buddhist community. They are believed to contain sacred relics and are considered holy objects. As a result, they are regularly visited by devotees who offer prayers, incense, and other offerings, which helps in maintaining their spiritual sanctity.
3. Cultural Importance: The white stupas at Sera Monastery are not just important religious symbols but also cultural icons. They represent the rich architectural traditions of Tibet and serve as a reminder of its cultural heritage. This importance has led to them being protected by local authorities and communities.
4. Preservation Efforts: In recent years, there has been an increased effort to preserve these iconic stupas from natural wear and tear. Steps have been taken to prevent water damage and erosion by implementing drainage systems around the stupas and planting trees nearby to prevent soil erosion.
5. Community Participation: Local communities living near the monastery have played a crucial role in preserving these historical structures. From providing donations for repairs to actively participating in maintenance works, their efforts have been crucial in preserving the white stupas for future generations.
6. Sustainable Development: With increasing tourism in recent years, there has been a focus on sustainable development around Sera Monastery to minimize its impact on the environment. This has also helped in preserving the surrounding landscape where the white stupas stand.
7. Government Support: The government of Tibet has recognized the importance of preserving historical and cultural sites, including the white stupas at Sera Monastery. They have implemented laws and regulations to protect these structures from any damage or destruction.
8. Documentation: The white stupas have been thoroughly documented and studied by experts to understand their historical significance and construction techniques. This information is crucial in guiding any restoration or repair works and helps in preserving the original design of the stupas.
9. Religious Ceremonies: Regular religious ceremonies are held at the stupas, which help in maintaining their spiritual energy and sanctity. These ceremonies involve prayers, rituals, and offerings, which contribute to their preservation.
10. Public Awareness: The monastery conducts regular tours for visitors where they educate them about the history and importance of the white stupas at Sera Monastery. This creates public awareness about these structures, increasing their value as cultural heritage sites, leading to better preservation efforts.
11. Can tourists climb up to explore the various levels of Ganden Monastery, or is only accessible from below?
Yes, tourists can climb up and explore the various levels of Ganden Monastery. The monastery is accessible through a series of staircases that lead to different levels and buildings within the complex. However, some areas may be restricted to the public due to ongoing religious ceremonies or maintenance work. It is best to check with the monastery’s administration before visiting.
12. When and why was Ramoche Temple built, and what sets it apart from other Buddhist temples in Lhasa?
Ramoche Temple was built in the 7th century, during the reign of Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo. It was meant to serve as a sister temple to Jokhang Temple, which was also built by Songtsen Gampo and is considered one of the most sacred temples in Tibet.
Ramoche Temple is unique among Buddhist temples in Lhasa because it houses a very important statue of Buddha Shakyamuni that is believed to have been brought to Tibet by Princess Wencheng, Songtsen Gampo’s Chinese wife. This statue is considered one of the most sacred objects in Tibet, and it serves as an important focal point for worship at Ramoche Temple.
Additionally, Ramoche Temple has a distinct architectural style compared to other temples in Lhasa. It features a central golden dome with four smaller ones surrounding it, representing the four directional Buddhas. The interior of the temple is richly decorated with intricate carvings and paintings.
Another notable aspect of Ramoche Temple is its close connection to Bon, the indigenous religion of Tibet that predates Buddhism. The temple houses statues and relics related to Bon beliefs and practices, showcasing the blending of Bon and Buddhist traditions in Tibet.
Overall, Ramoche Temple holds great historical and cultural significance for Tibetan Buddhists and continues to be an important religious site in Lhasa.
13. Are there any traditional festivals that take place at Drepung Monastery throughout the year?
Yes, there are several traditional festivals that take place at Drepung Monastery throughout the year. These include:
1. Losar – This is the Tibetan New Year and is celebrated in February or March according to the lunar calendar. It is a time for prayer, feasting, and traditional performances.
2. Saga Dawa – This festival celebrates the birth, enlightenment, and death of Buddha and falls in May or June according to the lunar calendar. It is a month-long celebration that involves ritual activities and cultural events.
3. Choekhor Duechen – This festival commemorates the first teaching of Buddha and takes place in July or August according to the lunar calendar. Pilgrims gather at Drepung Monastery to attend religious ceremonies and ceremonies.
4. Ganden Ngamchoe – This festival celebrates Tsongkhapa’s passing into nirvana (enlightenment) and takes place in December according to the Tibetan calendar. Monks participate in rituals, debates, and traditional performances.
5. Nyungne – This is a popular fast held in honor of Chenrezig (Avalokiteshvara), the Bodhisattva of compassion, during which monks go on retreats for purification and spiritual nourishment.
6. Losar Drupchod – In this ritual event held in conjunction with Losar celebrations, monks recite prayers for world peace, prosperity, health, success, happiness etc.
7. Drubka Tsechu – This celebration commemorates Guru Rinpoche’s first turning of wheel of dharma at Sarnath in India after attaining enlightenment under Bodhi tree at Bodhgaya on Saga duuchen day with display of large thangka paintings rolled out for worshiping thousands gather chanting prayers by fire light during evening hours under moon light at center stage airlifted by specially designed crane supported by strong iron frame structure assisted by monks using bamboo sticks to control the billowing cloth.
These are just some of the major festivals celebrated at Drepung Monastery throughout the year. There are also smaller ceremonies and events that take place regularly, such as daily prayer sessions and monthly full moon rituals.
14. Can you recommend any day trips from Lhasa for history enthusiasts looking to explore beyond the city limits?
There are a few options for history enthusiasts looking to explore beyond Lhasa:
1. Gyantse: This small town is about 260km southwest of Lhasa and is home to the iconic Pelkor Chode Monastery, which features exquisite murals and statues dating back to the 15th century. Gyantse is also known for its traditional Tibetan architecture and old fortresses.
2. Shigatse: Located around 275km west of Lhasa, Shigatse is the second-largest city in Tibet and the traditional seat of the Panchen Lama. The highlight of this city is the Tashilhunpo Monastery, which was founded in 1447 and houses a stunning giant statue of Maitreya Buddha.
3. Samye Monastery: This ancient monastery, located on the banks on Brahmaputra River around 150km southeast of Lhasa, was founded in the 8th century and is considered one of Tibet’s most sacred religious sites. It features a unique blend of Tibetan, Chinese, and Indian architecture styles.
4. Namtso Lake: Situated about 250km northwest of Lhasa, Namtso Lake is one of Tibet’s three holy lakes and is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty. The lake also has historical significance as it was believed to be the birthplace of a Tibetan deity.
5. Yamdrok Lake: Located around 100km southwest of Lhasa, this stunning turquoise lake is another important pilgrimage site for Tibetans as it’s believed to be the resting place of a fearsome Goddess. The lake also offers breathtaking views of Mount Nojin Kangsang.
6. Ganden Monastery: This monastery was founded in the early 15th century and is located around an hour’s drive from Lhasa. It serves as an excellent day trip destination for those interested in Tibetan Buddhist history and architecture.
7. Drak Yerpa: This ancient cave complex, known for its connection to Guru Rinpoche, is located around 16km northeast of Lhasa. It’s a popular pilgrimage site and offers stunning views of the surrounding valleys and mountains.
15. What cultural influences can be seen at sites like Tashilhunpo Monastery or Samye Monastery, which are located outside of Lhasa proper?
Some cultural influences that can be seen at sites like Tashilhunpo Monastery or Samye Monastery include:
1. Tibetan Buddhism: Both Tashilhunpo and Samye Monastery are important centers of Tibetan Buddhism and contain numerous religious artifacts, statues, and teachings related to this faith.
2. Chinese influence: These monasteries were built during the Yuan dynasty by Mongol rulers who were influenced by Chinese culture, leading to the incorporation of elements of Han Chinese architecture in the design of these monasteries.
3. Indian influence: The first monastery to be founded in Tibet, Samye Monastery was built with the help of Indian Buddhist masters and reflects their architectural styles and religious practices.
4. Bon tradition: The Tashilhunpo Monastery is closely associated with the Bon tradition, a pre-Buddhist indigenous religion of Tibet, so some influences from this tradition can also be seen at the site.
5. Artistic influences: These monasteries are important centers for traditional Tibetan arts such as thangka paintings, sculptures, and mandalas which are integral parts of Tibetan Buddhism.
6. Cultural exchange: As centers for spiritual learning and pilgrimage, these monasteries have been visited by people from different regions of Tibet and other countries along ancient trade routes leading to cultural exchange between different cultures.
7. Political significance: Both Tashilhunpo and Samye Monastery have played important roles in Tibetan political history as places where political leaders were ordained and some significant political events took place. This has led to influences from politics on the culture at these sites.
16. Is there a vibrant market or bazaar near these historical landmarks where visitors can buy locally-made souvenirs or trinkets?
Yes, there are several vibrant markets and bazaars near these historical landmarks in Pakistan where visitors can buy locally-made souvenirs or trinkets. Some notable options include:
1. Anarkali Bazaar in Lahore: This is one of the oldest markets in Lahore and is situated near Badshahi Mosque, Lahore Fort, and Minar-e-Pakistan. Here, visitors can find a wide range of traditional handicrafts, such as pottery, pottery work, jewelry, textiles, and more.
2. Bohra Bazaar in Multan: This market is located near the iconic Qila Kohna Qasim Bagh Fort in Multan. It is known for its beautiful handmade clay pots and other ceramic products.
3. Shandur Bazaar in Chitral: This bazaar opens up during the famous Shandur Polo Festival which takes place near Shandoor Top. Visitors can find unique traditional items like woollen shawls, caps, handmade carpets and rugs here.
4. Shahi Bazaar in Peshawar: Located close to the historic Qissa Khwani Bazaar and Peshawar Museum, this market offers a variety of local handicrafts including embroidered garments, brassware goods, and tribal jewellery.
5. Rang Mahal Bazaar in Rawalpindi: Situated near Rawalpindi’s famous Raja Bazaar and Gordon College (PGC), Rang Mahal bazar has an impressive collection of colourful embroidered dresses made from local fabric like ‘Khaddar’, ‘Julha’ etc.
It is always recommended to bargain when shopping at these markets to get the best price for your purchase.
17. Are there any historically significant tombs or burial sites located within close proximity of Lhasa?
Yes, there are several historically significant tombs and burial sites located within close proximity of Lhasa. These include:
1) The Potala Palace – the traditional residence of the Dalai Lama and the final resting place of many previous Dalai Lamas.
2) The Jokhang Temple – one of the oldest and most sacred temples in Tibet, it contains tombs of important religious leaders such as Songtsen Gampo.
3) The Ramoche Temple – home to the remains of King Trisong Detsen, who commissioned the building of many Buddhist monuments in Tibet.
4) Chupzang Nunnery – houses the tomb of Princess Wencheng, wife of Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo.
5) Sera Monastery – contains several tombs and burial caves, including that of Tsongkhapa, founder of the Gelugpa school of Tibetan Buddhism.
6) Gyama Valley – considered a sacred site by Tibetans, it contains numerous ancient tombs and burial mounds dating back to 7th century CE.
These are just some examples; there are likely many other tombs and burial sites scattered throughout the area that hold historical significance to Tibetans.
18.Set against picturesque mountainous backdrops, can you suggest any scenic spots for photography near Lhasa’s landmarks?
1. Potala Palace – The beautiful red and white palace against the backdrop of the mountains is an iconic spot for photography.2. Jokhang Temple – The traditional Tibetan architecture of the temple combined with its location near Barkhor Square make it a great spot for photos.
3. Sera Monastery – This peaceful monastery offers stunning views of surrounding mountains and is a popular spot for capturing monastic life.
4. Drepung Monastery – Located on a hilltop, this monastery offers panoramic views of the Lhasa Valley.
5. Norbulingka Palace – Known as the “Summer Palace” of the Dalai Lama, this sprawling complex has beautifully landscaped gardens and offers scenic views of Lhasa’s outskirts.
6. Namtso Lake – Located about 4 hours from Lhasa, this pristine lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains is a popular spot for landscape photography.
7. Tashilhunpo Monastery – Located in Shigatse, this monastery offers stunning views of Mt. Everest on clear days.
8. Ganden Monastery – This mountain-top monastery offers stunning panoramic views of the Kyi Chu Valley and is a popular trekking spot for photographers.
9. Drak Yerpa – A sacred site located about an hour from Lhasa, this cave complex offers both cultural and natural beauty perfect for photography.
10. Ganden Sumtseling Monastery (Songzanlin) – Located in Yunnan Province, this replica of Potala Palace with its grand architecture and mountain backdrop makes for memorable photos.
19. How many of Lhasa’s historical landmarks are UNESCO World Heritage Sites and what is their significance?
The three historical landmarks in Lhasa that are UNESCO World Heritage Sites are:
1. Potala Palace: This is the most famous landmark in Lhasa and it was the main residence of the Dalai Lama until 1959. It was also the administrative center of the Tibetan government. The palace is a symbol of Tibetan Buddhism and its unique architecture reflects a blend of traditional Tibetan, Han Chinese, and Indian influences.
2. Jokhang Temple: Built in the 7th century, this temple is considered to be the most sacred Buddhist site in Tibet. It houses many precious cultural relics, including statues and thangkas (Tibetan Buddhist paintings). The temple is an important pilgrimage site for Tibetans and Buddhists from all over the world.
3. Norbulingka Palace: This palace was the summer residence of the Dalai Lama from the 18th century until 1959. It served as a place for relaxation, meditation, and government administration. Its unique architecture combines traditional Tibetan and Chinese styles.
All three sites are significant not only for their religious and cultural importance but also for their architectural value, as they represent a fusion of different cultural traditions. These landmarks also bear witness to the distinctive political and spiritual role played by Tibet within Asia for centuries.
20. Lastly, what local legends or stories have been passed down through generations about these iconic landmarks in Lhasa?
There are several local legends and stories that have been passed down through generations about the iconic landmarks in Lhasa. Some of the most well-known ones are:
– Potala Palace: According to legend, Potala Palace was built on the orders of a celestial being called Chenresig, who wanted to honor the 33rd Tibetan king, Songtsen Gampo. It is said that the palace was built on top of a sacred mountain where a goddess resided, who agreed to move her abode to make way for the palace.
– Jokhang Temple: The legend has it that Jokhang Temple was built after Queen Bhrikuti, one of Songtsen Gampo’s wives brought a statue of Buddha given to her by her father from Nepal. The statue was believed to be alive and its tears were considered to have curative powers, leading to the establishment of this temple.
– Barkhor Street: There is a popular story about the origins of Barkhor Street. It is said that many years ago, Kasyapa — one of Buddha’s disciples appeared in front of Tibetans while they were worshipping at Jokhang Temple. He asked them why they didn’t pray while walking around Jokhang Temple instead of standing still, and thus Barkhor street came into existence as a pilgrim circuit.
– Norbulingka Palace: The name Norbulingka means “Jewel Park” in Tibetan and there is an interesting story behind this. According to legend, when Tsongkhapa (the founder of Gelug sect) arrived in Lhasa and saw the barren land where Norbulingka now stands, he planted some soil from Bodh Gaya (where Buddha attained enlightenment) and prayed for it to become fertile. Miraculously, green grass grew overnight and this led to it being named “Jewel Park”.