Lhasa

The Potala Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site perched atop Marpo Ri Hill in Lhasa, Tibet, is an architectural marvel and a spiritual heart of Tibetan Buddhism. Built in the 7th century and expanded in the 17th century, the palace spans 130,000 square meters and rises 117 meters above the valley, housing over 1,000 rooms, chapels, and treasures. With its iconic red and white walls, the Potala Palace blends religious significance, political history, and artistic grandeur, offering visitors a glimpse into Tibet’s rich cultural legacy.

The Jokhang Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the spiritual core of Tibetan Buddhism, stands as a testament to centuries of devotion, art, and cultural heritage. Built in the 7th century under the sponsorship of Queen Wenzcheng, this iconic temple attracts pilgrims and tourists alike with its gilded statues, intricate murals, and vibrant prayer ceremonies. Below is a detailed guide to exploring this sacred site.

Norbulingka, the "Treasure Garden" of Tibet, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and former summer palace of the Dalai Lamas, blending religious significance with natural beauty. Established in the 18th century and expanded over centuries, this 36-hectare estate near Lhasa serves as a cultural and architectural marvel, reflecting Tibet’s spiritual and artistic legacy. With its lush gardens, historic pavilions, and sacred temples, Norbulingka offers a glimpse into Tibet’s royal and religious traditions.

Barkhor Street, a sacred pilgrimage circuit and bustling marketplace in Lhasa, Tibet, stands as a vibrant testament to the region’s spiritual heritage and cultural diversity. Encircling the iconic Jokhang Temple, the 1-kilometer-long street has served as a focal point for Tibetan Buddhism and trade for over 1,300 years. With its cobblestone paths, prayer wheels, and aromatic stalls, Barkhor Street offers a sensory journey through Tibet’s past and present.

Sera Monastery, a spiritual and architectural gem in the northern suburbs of Lhasa, Tibet, stands as one of the most revered Gelugpa Buddhist monasteries, renowned for its vibrant traditions and historical significance. Founded in 1419 by Jamchen Chojey Sakya Yeshe, a disciple of Tsongkhapa, the monastery covers 114,964 square meters and once housed over 5,000 monks. Today, it remains a thriving center for Buddhist learning, debate, and meditation, attracting pilgrims and tourists alike with its intricate murals, golden statues, and lively debating courtyards.