Jokhang Temple: Tibet’s holiest shrine since 652 CE
The Jokhang Temple on Barkhor Square in Lhasa was founded in 652 CE by King Songtsen Gampo and holds the Jowo Shakyamuni — a gilt statue regarded as Tibet’s most sacred image. The temple anchors the Barkhor pilgrimage circuit and forms part of the UNESCO World Heritage ensemble (site 707) with the P