Our first full day in Lhasa and it is beautiful.
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| Potala Palace |
The
Potala Palace, the highest ancient palace in the world was the winter palace of the
Dalai Lama. More about the14th Dalai Lama who left in 1959 disguised as a soldier, to escape from the Chinese occupation can be read
here. The palace sits at 12,300 feet above sea level at it's highest point. Our trip included a visit but today, the members of the group that were going trekking, needed to get supplies and pack.
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| hotel lobby ceiling |
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| venturing through the alleys |
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| my first yak burger |
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| a mosque in the distance in the Muslim section of Lhasa |
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| mosque |
The highlight was the walk around Jokhang Temple where pilgrims circumambulated on the path. A few pilgrims were postrating themselves along the whole path. Jokhang Temple is considered to be the holiest shrine in Tibet.
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| the ever present burning of incense, typically outside the temples |
Entry into Barkhor Square located in the front of Jokhang Temple required going through a police barricade with TSA like screening for bags. Barkhor Square was where
two young monks in 2012 set themselves on fire to protest against Chinese rule. I must say, it is unpleasant and weird to have this police presence in such a peaceful place.
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| entry into Barkhor Square |
On a happier note, these 2 pilgrims were celebrating (perhaps completing prostrations) in front of Jokhang Temple.
And then, there were dogs, many of them, strolling or sleeping, minding their own business. And strangely, no dog poo in sight. None of them begged or required any attention. In fact, they were masterful at crossing these incredibly busy streets.
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| this one reminded me of my own dog, Daisy |
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