After finishing breakfast, we headed over to Jokhang temple(大昭寺), probably the second most popular tourist spot after Potala palace. The temple was less than 10 minutes drive from Potala palace and within walking distance of our hotel.
Our guide found that a well-respected Lama was paying a visit in the afternoon, we decided to spend some time shopping in Barkhor street before coming back to the temple to see the Lama.
Barkhor street circles the temple. I am not sure if there is a story behind this, it appeared that most of the pedestrians visiting Barkhor walked clockwise. The street was lined with plenty of shops and stands selling everything from Tibetan flavored decorations, paintings, status, and books.
A stand in Barkhor street
Bargaining was a necessary evil here, especially for us who has tourist written all over our faces - I had a big camera hanging while Levi did not speak much Mandarin other than "duo shao? (how much?)" and "pien yi dien? (cheaper?)"
This lady was holding a Tibetan prayer wheel - turning it clock wise while chanting Buddhism sutra would multiply prayer's effect
A pilgrim on Barkhor street
After satisfying our shopping urge, we headed back to Johkang temple. By now, there were a lot of people at the temple entrance eagerly waiting for Lama's arrival. The securities had to close to door to stop the inflow of people.
We found ourselves a half decent spot by the door. The yellow hat monks lined up in the center waiting to welcome the guest of honor. As I was blocked, these pictures were taken without me looking at the view finder, so I was busy shooting away in hope to get a couple of good ones.
The Lama coming down the stair into the gathering area on the first floor, he was in gold robe with the cone shaped hat
View of Potala palace from Jokhang temple, by now, th sun started to pierce through the cloud
View of the open area in front of Jokhang temple
Wheel of Dharma on the temple roof top
Wheel of Dharma at the front of the temple.
Up close view of the wheel
After awhile, we were looking to leave the temple as we grew tired and had one more stop to go for the day - Norbulingka. For some reason, the doors were all locked. The security of the temple eventually opened a side door for us to get out. That was odd.
Because of the event, we did not get to see much of Jokhang. But we witness a special ceremony, so it's all good.
Because of the event, we did not get to see much of Jokhang. But we witness a special ceremony, so it's all good.
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