Gandan Kora Tour: A Spiritual Walk Tibet Golden Route With Train From Xining: Exploring The Qinghai-tibet Plateau
Executive Summary
The Gandan Kora Tour is a pilgrimage circuit around the Gandan Monastery in Lhasa, Tibet. It is a sacred walk that is believed to bring good luck and fortune. The tour typically takes three days and two nights, and includes visits to the monastery, the Jokhang Temple, and other sacred sites.
Introduction
The Gandan Kora Tour is a popular pilgrimage for Tibetan Buddhists. It is also a great way to experience the Tibetan culture and see some of the most beautiful scenery in the world. Typically, the tour starts from Xining, the capital of Qinghai Province, and takes the train to Lhasa, the capital of Tibet. The journey itself is an adventure, as the train winds its way through the Tibetan Plateau, offering stunning views of the mountains, lakes, and grasslands.
The Five Subtopics
1. Gandan Monastery
Gandan Monastery is the largest and most important monastery in Tibet. It was founded in 1409 by Tsongkhapa, the founder of the Gelugpa sect of Tibetan Buddhism. The monastery is home to over 2,000 monks and is considered to be one of the most important religious centers in the world.
- Highlights: The Jokhang Temple, the main temple of the monastery, is said to be the holiest temple in Tibet.
- Other attractions: The monastery also has a number of other temples, stupas, and shrines.
- Tips: Visitors should dress respectfully and be mindful of the religious significance of the site.
- History: The monastery was founded in 1409 by Tsongkhapa, the founder of the Gelugpa sect of Tibetan Buddhism.
2. Jokhang Temple
The Jokhang Temple is the most sacred temple in Tibet. It was built in the 7th century and is said to house the Jowo Shakyamuni, the most revered statue of Buddha in Tibet. The temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is a popular pilgrimage destination for Tibetan Buddhists.
- Highlights: The Jowo Shakyamuni statue is the main attraction of the temple.
- Other attractions: The temple also has a number of other statues, paintings, and artifacts.
- Tips: Visitors should dress respectfully and be mindful of the religious significance of the site.
- History: It was built in the 7th century and is said to house the Jowo Shakyamuni, the most revered statue of Buddha in Tibet.
3. Barkhor Street
Barkhor Street is a circular street that surrounds the Jokhang Temple. It is a popular place for pilgrims to circumambulate the temple and to buy souvenirs. The street is lined with shops, restaurants, and guesthouses.
- Highlights: The circumambulation of the Jokhang Temple is the main attraction of the street.
- Other attractions: The street is also home to a number of other temples, monasteries, and shrines.
- Tips: Visitors should be aware of the pickpockets that frequent the street.
- History: It dates back to the 7th century and has been a center of trade and pilgrimage for centuries.
4. Potala Palace
The Potala Palace is the former winter palace of the Dalai Lama. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the most iconic landmarks in Tibet. The palace is a massive structure that is perched on a hill overlooking Lhasa.
- Highlights: The Potala Palace is a must-see for any visitor to Tibet.
- Other attractions: The palace is home to a number of temples, chapels, and other buildings.
- Tips: Visitors should be prepared for a long walk up to the palace.
- History: Built in the 17th century, it housed the Dalai Lamas until their exile to India in 1959.
5. Sera Monastery
Sera Monastery is one of the three great monasteries of Lhasa. It was founded in 1419 and is home to over 1,000 monks. The monastery is known for its debates, which are a popular tourist attraction.
- Highlights: The debates are the main attraction of the monastery.
- Other attractions: The monastery also has a number of temples, stupas, and shrines.
- Tips: Visitors should be respectful of the monks and their religious practices.
- History: Sera Monastery dates back nearly 600 years. It was founded in 1419 by Jamchen Choje Tashi Palden, a close disciple of Je Tsongkhapa.
Conclusion
The Gandan Kora Tour is a life-changing experience that will provide visitors with a deep insight into Tibetan culture and religion. The tour is also a great way to see some of the most beautiful scenery in the world.
Keyword Phrase Tags
- Gandan Kora Tour
- Tibet Golden Route
- Qinghai-Tibet Plateau
- Jokhang Temple
- Potala Palace