UWDAWG Loc: Bellevue, WA

Pictures #1&2 and are of the Potella Palace in Lhasa, Tibet, residence of the Dalai Lama. However, he is in exile and is considered a persona non grata in Tibet by the Chinese government. The balance of the photos involve the Jokhang Monastery and, the most holy of Tibetan Buddhism's holy places.

Many pilgrims walk from their home towns to the Jokhang and some even walk in a special way to show their devotion. They take three steps, say a prayer, lie face down on the ground, then get up and repeat the sequence. Reportedly, the act of a full-body prostration can take the devotee years to reach the Jokhang from their home towns, but many do it as a sign of devotion and a way to enhance their Karma. Over a thousand pilgrims come to the Jokhang each day.

Many pilgrims carry prayer wheels, on the outside of which are etched various prayers. They always spin the wheels in a clockwise direction, while orally reciting prayers as they walk around the area.

Potella Palace from the hotel room


The palace prior hiking to the top


The Jokhang Monastery behind the wall of smoke


View from the top floor of the Monastery


Pilgrim worshipers in front of the monastery


Top floor of the monastery


Another view of the top floor


View of some of the pilgrims from the top floor


Pilgrims


Visiting monk.


Ladies with their prayer wheels


Monks strolling through the incense smoke


A senior pilgrim


Three senior pilgrims taking a break

UWDAWG Loc: Bellevue, WA

Typo on my comments - the Palace is the Potala Palace, not Potela. Oh well, typing has never been one of my talents or editing skills.

UP-2-IT Loc: RED STICK, LA

Great shots, bit tired from all the walking tho, and we at times think our lives are a bit weird.

HEART Loc: God's Country - COLORADO

What an imazing imagery! Very nicely done, as well as the history of the setting. Thanks for posting!

UWDAWG Loc: Bellevue, WA

Thanks for the kind words. It was really a great experience to see such a different culture and people and at 11,450 feet in altitude.

UWDAWG Loc: Bellevue, WA

Glad you enjoyed the photos - it was really great being able to take them and share with others.

angler Loc: StHelens England

Very good set and thanks for the tour.

UWDAWG Loc: Bellevue, WA

Thanks. Glad to share the photos.

canoncan Loc: Fife Scotland

wonderful series of pictures, what a beautiful place to visit, thanks for sharing

UWDAWG Loc: Bellevue, WA

It was an amazing experience - always happy to share photos.