Barkhor

Barkhor is a Tibetan term referring to a devotional circuit or pilgrimage route, particularly significant in Tibetan Buddhism. The most famous Barkhor is the circumambulation route around the Jokhang Temple in Lhasa, Tibet. This sacred path is trodden by countless pilgrims, both local Tibetans and visitors from other regions, who undertake the journey to accumulate merit and purify negative karma. The Barkhor is more than just a physical path; it is a spiritual journey where devotees chant mantras, spin prayer wheels, and prostrate themselves.

The Barkhor circuit in Lhasa is a bustling area, lined with shops selling religious items, traditional handicrafts, and local snacks. Along the route, pilgrims often stop at various small shrines and prayer flag installations. The atmosphere is often filled with the sound of chanting and the gentle murmur of prayer wheels. The Barkhor is not only a religious site but also a vibrant center of Tibetan culture and daily life. It provides a glimpse into the deep-rooted spiritual traditions and the communal practices of the Tibetan people. The route itself has undergone changes over time, but its spiritual significance remains central to Tibetan Buddhism.