Ramoche, sister monastery of Jokhang in Lhasa

July,28 2016 BY Master Catherine Jigme 0 COMMENTS

Situated in the northwest of ancient Lhasa city, Ramoche is regarded as the sister monastery of Jokhang in Lhasa because they were completed about at the same time. The temple is a wonderful example of the combination of Han and Tibetan architectural styles. It should be taken in a Lhasa tour as a must-see site in Lhasa.

Though the Ramoche receives visitors fewer than Jokhang temple which is the holiest temple in Lhasa, it is the most important temple in Lhasa after the Jokhang temple.

The Ramoche was built originally to house the much revered Jowo Rinpoche statue which was brought to Tibet when Princess Wencheng came to Lhasa. Princess Wencheng was famous Tibet King, Songsten Gampo's bride and played an important role in Tibet history.

Covering a total area of 4,000 square meters, the Ramoche Temple is one of the important cultural relic protection sites in Tibet as well as a hot attraction in Lhasa.

As the Ramoche was built in the period when Chinese culture, religion, technology and architecture were greatly brought into Tibet during the Tang Dynasty, the original building complex has a strong Tang architecture influence. It was said that Princess Wencheng from Tang Dynasty took charge of this project and ordered the temple be erected facing east to show her homesickness.

The Ramoche fell into ruins and went through many reconstructions. The present temple is the result of the large restoration of 1986. Only the Buddha palace on the first floor is left in its original state.

The main building of the Ramoche temple has three stories. Upon entering the main building, one can see the ten pillars holding some of the remaining Tibetan relics such as the encased lotus flowers, coiling cloud, jewelry, and particular Tibetan Characters.

The golden peak of the temple with the Han-style upturned eave can be seen from any direction in Lhasa city. It is also within walking distance, so do not miss this attraction in Lhasa when you are travelling in Tibet.

About the Author - Master Catherine Jigme

With exceptional passion and outstanding leadership, Mrs. Catherine has dedicated herself to Tibet inbound tourism and China tour for 15 years. As one of the handful females who see great potential of Chinese inbound tourism, Catherine has made great contribution to promoting Tibet tourism and enhancing the employment of Tibetans and prosperity of local Tibetan community.

Over the years, she travelled overseas with Tibet Tourism Bureau many times to promote Tibet tourism. Currently, Catherine works as the marketing director of Tibet Vista, an opinion leader behind the whole team of Tibet Vista.

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