Top Kora Routes in Lhasa

Before we dive into the best routes, let's clear up what a "kora" is. In Tibetan Buddhism, a kora is a sacred circumambulation, usually done clockwise around a holy site like a temple, mountain, lake, or stupa. It's a way for believers to show devotion, accumulate merit, and connect with their faith. Many people bring prayer wheels and spin them as they walk, while others might chant mantras softly. Even if you're not a Buddhist, doing a kora is a beautiful way to slow down, respect local culture, and feel the spiritual energy of Lhasa. Think of it as a mindful journey, not just exercise!

Lhasa, as Tibet's cultural heart, is packed with kora routes that are easy to walk and rich in history—ideal if you're trying a kora for the first time.

Inside Jokhang Temple: Touch the Core of 1,000-Year-Old Faith

This is the "inner kora," a short path around Jokhang Temple's main hall—only about 300 meters long. You can do it while you're already visiting the temple, so no extra time needed! This route is super sacred. Along the way, you'll see dozens of gem-inlaid shrines and ancient murals that tell stories of Tibetan Buddhism. Spin your prayer wheel slowly, follow the local believers' pace, and listen to the quiet crackle of butter lamps. Many elderly Tibetans walk this loop again and again, murmuring mantras—it's a deeply immersive look at how faith shapes daily life here.

Barkhor Kora: The Most Lively Kora Path

Located in Lhasa's old town, this path circles the outside of Jokhang Temple. It's about 2 kilometers long and takes 30-40 minutes to walk—flat and easy, with lots of shops and food stalls along the way. This is Lhasa's busiest kora route, and that's part of its charm! You'll walk alongside locals spinning prayer wheels, tourists exploring, and vendors selling Tibetan snacks. When you get tired, pop into a tiny tea house for a cup of butter tea—watch the world go by as people chant "Om Mani Padme Hum" (the famous Buddhist mantra). If you want a souvenir, pick up a hand-carved wooden prayer wheel from a local artisan—they're far more special than mass-produced ones.

Potala Palace Kora: Walk with a World Heritage Site

Route Overview: This path goes around the outer walls of the Potala Palace, about 3 kilometers long. It takes 45-60 minutes, with a few gentle hills, but it's still easy for most people. The path is lined with mani stones (rocks carved with mantras) and colorful prayer flags fluttering in the wind. Every so often, there's a row of brass prayer wheels—give them a push as you walk! Look up, and you'll see the Potala's stunning red and white buildings against the sky, sometimes with snow-capped mountains in the distance. You might even see pilgrims doing prostrations (lying flat on the ground) as they make their way around—their devotion is truly moving.

Lingkhor Kora: Lhasa's Past and Present

This is the "outer kora" around Lhasa's old town, about 8 kilometers long. It takes 2–3 hours to walk, passing through residential areas and small parks—quiet and peaceful, away from the crowds. This route is more off-the-beaten-path, so you'll get a real taste of local life.

Drepung Monastery Kora: Overlook the Lhasa Valley

This path circles Drepung Monastery's main buildings, about 3 kilometers long. It takes 1.5–2 hours, with some slopes, but there are small rest areas where you can sit and catch your breath. Drepung Monastery is one of Tibet's most important monasteries, and its kora is beautiful. Along the way, you'll find tiny chapels and meditation caves. Spin your prayer wheel and gaze at the monastery's white buildings, stacked up the hillside. When you reach the top, you'll get a fantastic view of the entire Lhasa Valley—worth the small climb! In the morning, you might hear monks chanting—their voices echo through the hills, making the moment feel magical.

Sera Monastery Kora: Listen to Debates

Sera Monastery's kora has two options: an inner loop (1 kilometer, 30 minutes) and an outer loop (3 kilometers, 1.5 hours). Choose whichever fits your schedule! Sera Monastery is famous for its monk debates—you'll hear them yelling and clapping as they discuss Buddhist teachings (usually 3-5 PM). The inner kora is close to the main hall, so you'll feel the temple's busy energy. The outer kora goes up Sera Monastery's back mountain, past mani stones and trees that turn golden in autumn. Walk slowly, spin your prayer wheel, and let the debate sounds mix with the wind—it's a unique blend of learning and spirituality.

Conclusion

You don't need to be religious to enjoy a kora—you just need an open mind. So grab a prayer wheel, dress modestly, and get ready to make memories that will last long after your trip ends!