Lhasa Great Mosque

Welcome to the heart of Lhasa's Muslim Quarter, where we find the Lhasa Qing Zhen Da Si, or the Great Mosque of Lhasa. Situated just a short walk east of the famous Barkhor Street, this site serves as a profound reminder that…

One of the most remarkable features of the Lhasa Great Mosque is its architectural pedigree, which draws heavily from the Jiangnan region of East China. As you look at the sweeping eaves and the traditional gate, you are seeing a…

The area surrounding the mosque is known as the Muslim Quarter, a distinctive neighborhood where you will see many pedestrians wearing traditional white caps. This is one of the few places in Lhasa where you can find a high…

Friday is the most important day at the Great Mosque, as it is when the Islamic Duma, or congregational prayers, are held. During this time, Muslim men from all over Lhasa and the surrounding regions gather here to perform their…

Just outside the mosque's gates, you will find some of the most interesting and rare street food in Lhasa. One of the most famous snacks here is 'Shatze,' a type of crispy, fried dough that is particularly popular in Northwest…

Directly adjacent to the Muslim Quarter is one of Lhasa's busiest local markets, specializing in fresh produce and household goods. In a city like Lhasa, where the environment is harsh and the altitude is high, getting fresh…

As you walk away from the mosque toward the Potala Palace, you will witness the rapid modernization of Lhasa. Just five minutes from the traditional meat stalls, you will encounter large shopping malls and multi-story brick…

Our visit to the Lhasa Great Mosque and its surrounding quarter offers a rare look at the 'diverse tapestry' of Tibet. We have seen how a 300-year-old tradition of Tibetan Islam has flourished in the shadow of the Himalayas,…