Barkhor Street

Address Encircling the Jokhang Temple, Chengguan District, Lhasa, Tibet

Hours Open 24 hours, but shops typically operate from 09:00 to 21:00

Phone +86 891 6323635

Announcement: Cultural & Commercial Hub

Entrance ¥0

Hours Open 24 hours, but...

Best Season Early morning to join the local pilgrims, or late evening when the street is beautifully illuminated and less crowded.

Time needed 2-3 hours

Last visit: Jun 15, 2026

Author: —

Reviewer: —

Barkhor Street Overview

A vibrant, ancient circular street that serves as the main pilgrimage route (kora) around the Jokhang Temple, as well as Lhasa's busiest traditional market. It offers an incredible sensory experience of Tibetan culture, commerce, and devotion.

Barkhor Street Opening Hours & Tickets

Open 24 hours, but shops typically operate from 09:00 to 21:00
Best season: Early morning to join the local pilgrims, or late evening when the street is beautifully illuminated and less crowded.
Ticket note: Free public area. Passports and Tibet Travel Permits are checked at security sca...

Essential Barkhor Street Visitor Information

Enquiries: +86 891 6323635
Hundreds of shops and stalls
Teahouses and restaurants
Police and security checkpoints
Public seating areas

How to Get to Barkhor Street

Pedestrian only. Taxis and tour buses drop passengers off at the major intersections bordering the old town.

Barkhor Street Travel Safety & Advice

Dial 120. The area is heavily patrolled and incredibly safe for foreign tourists at all hours.

Practical Info

Encircling the Jokhang Temple, Chengguan District, Lhasa, Tibet
Open 24 hours, but shops typically operate from 09:00 to 21:00
+86 891 6323635

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Updated regularly

We keep this guide current.

Ratings

☆☆☆☆☆ — (0 reviews)

On-site notes & editorial review

Tickets

Free public area. Passports and Tibet Travel Permits are checked at security sca...

Online booking may be required

Tips

Always walk clockwise alongside the pilgrims. This is the best place in Tibet for street photography, but always ask permission before photo...

Reality Check

Highly commercialized with many shops selling mass-produced souvenirs mixed in with authentic goods. Haggling is mandatory if you wish to buy. The circuit is strictly one-way (clockwise).