Planning a trip to Lhasa in 2026? If you want to experience the city’s spiritual atmosphere, historic architecture, and vibrant street life all in one place, Barkhor Old Town should be at the top of your list.
Centered around the famous Barkhor Street, this district is widely considered the birthplace of Lhasa. With roots dating back to the 7th century, Barkhor grew organically as pilgrims began walking a circular path around Jokhang Temple. Over centuries, that path evolved into a lively neighborhood blending religion, trade, culture, and everyday life.
Today, Barkhor Old Town remains the cultural and spiritual center of Lhasa — and the perfect place for a slow, immersive city walk.
Classic Barkhor City Walk Route (Self-Guided Loop)
Recommended Route:
Jokhang Temple Square → Tang–Tubo Alliance Monument → Former Qing Amban Office → Bonda Tsang Courtyard → Gendun Choephel Memorial Hall → Shaza Courtyard
This walking route can be completed at a relaxed pace in half a day, with plenty of time for photos, café stops, and cultural exploration.
Jokhang Temple & the Pilgrim Circuit
Begin your walk at Jokhang Temple Square. As you enter Barkhor Street through the security checkpoint, the golden roof of Jokhang Temple immediately captures your attention.
Pilgrims move clockwise along the Barkhor circuit, spinning prayer wheels and chanting softly. Joining the flow offers a powerful glimpse into Tibetan spiritual life.
Just outside the temple stands the Tang–Tubo Alliance Monument, erected in 823 AD. The stone pillar commemorates a historic peace agreement between the Tang Dynasty and the Tubo Kingdom. Its bilingual inscriptions in Tibetan and Chinese symbolize a period of diplomatic unity more than a thousand years ago.
Former Qing Amban Office
A short walk from the pilgrim circuit brings you to the Former Qing Amban Office, established in 1728.
This historic compound once housed imperial commissioners stationed in Tibet. Over nearly two centuries, more than 100 officials worked here. Today, the preserved buildings provide insight into Lhasa’s layered political and administrative history.
The architecture reflects a blend of traditional Tibetan design and Qing-era influences, making it an interesting stop for history enthusiasts.
Bonda Tsang Ancient Courtyard
Exit toward South Barkhor Street and you’ll reach Bonda Tsang Courtyard, one of the best-preserved historic merchant residences in the old town.
Originally home to the wealthy Bonda Tsang trading family during the Tea-Horse Road era, the compound now combines heritage and leisure.
Inside, you’ll find:
- A spacious courtyard with shaded seating
- Boutique hotel rooms
- Small restaurants and cafés
- Tibetan cultural workshops
Visitors can join hands-on experiences such as Tibetan incense making or traditional butter tea preparation. These short classes offer meaningful insight into local daily life.
Gendun Choephel Memorial Hall
Located inside Garu Xiar Courtyard, the memorial hall honors Gendun Choephel, one of the most influential Tibetan intellectuals of the 20th century.
A poet, translator, artist, and reformist thinker, Gendun Choephel played a key role in modern Tibetan cultural development. The museum displays more than 400 personal artifacts, manuscripts, and artworks, offering a deeper understanding of his remarkable life and ideas.
Shatra Courtyard: Aristocratic Elegance
Built in the early 19th century by aristocrat Shatra Dundup dorje, Shatra Courtyard remains one of the most complete traditional noble residences in Lhasa.
The stone-and-wood complex features:
- A three-story main building
- Steep wooden ladders
- Intricate carved window frames
- Traditional Tibetan architectural details
Today, the courtyard hosts Thangka exhibitions, independent coffee shops, and creative cultural boutiques. Sitting in the sunlit courtyard with a cup of coffee creates a unique contrast between centuries-old architecture and modern lifestyle.
Where to Eat in Barkhor Old Town
Exploring Barkhor works up an appetite. Fortunately, the area offers excellent dining options ranging from Himalayan flavors to cozy cafés.
Namaste Restaurant
📍 Yutuo Road, Chengguan District
A favorite among travelers, Namaste Restaurant blends Nepalese, Indian, and Tibetan cuisine.
Must-try dishes include:
- Masala chicken with naan
- Yogurt cake
- Rich Himalayan-style curries
The freshly baked naan paired with flavorful curry is especially popular. The warm ambiance makes it a comfortable place to relax after sightseeing.
Summit Café
📍 Inside Shambhala Hotel Courtyard, Danjielin Road
Located just steps from Jokhang Temple, Summit Café is ideal for a quiet coffee break. The setting is peaceful, yet you’re still within walking distance of the lively Barkhor circuit.
Across the street, you’ll find Guangming Gangqiong Teahouse, one of Lhasa’s most famous local sweet tea houses — a great spot if you want to experience authentic Tibetan tea culture.
Grandpa & Grandma Meat Pie Shop
📍 Danjielin Alley
This small, family-run shop is a true local favorite.
Known for its freshly made Tibetan-style meat pies, the shop:
- Uses simple, fresh ingredients
- Sells around 700 handmade pies daily
- Charges only RMB 5 per pie
- Operates less than six hours per day
They often sell out before noon, so arriving early is essential.
The crispy exterior and juicy filling make it one of the most satisfying street snacks in Barkhor Old Town.
Barkhor Old Town offers more than sightseeing. It’s a place where ancient pilgrimage routes, historic courtyards, local flavors, and modern cafés come together in one unforgettable walking experience.
