Ganden Ngamchoe: For Whom Will You Light a Prayer Lamp?

On Ganden Ngamchoe, Lhasa transforms into a "sea of lights" ✨—the golden roof of Jokhang Temple shimmers like a galaxy, pilgrims circumambulate Barkhor Street amidst swirling juniper smoke, and lesser-known temples like Ramoche Temple and Zaki Temple exude a serene sanctity. Lhasa's streets are even livelier than during Losar (Tibetan New Year), with flickering candlelight illuminating every corner, from grand avenues to intimate temple courtyards, throughout the night. People chant mantras or offer prayers as they light candles and lamps. I felt a sense of holiness, and my heart found peace. 🙏 The flickering candlelight in the window, radiating warmth and light, marks this special occasion for the Tibetan people, and I was fortunate to be a part of it! If you happen to be in Tibet during this time, don't miss this truly worthwhile experience! 🌟 🔥 Origins This festival commemorates the death of Je Tsongkhapa, the founder of the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism. For over 600 years, devotees have offered butter lamps to express their devotion and seek blessings. Je Tsongkhapa passed away in 1419 at Ganden Monastery. Before his death, he urged his disciples to continue upholding the Dharma. Subsequently, followers adopted the lamp as a symbol of wisdom, dispelling darkness. 📅 Date The 25th day of the 10th month in the Tibetan calendar (corresponding to December 25 in both 2024 and 2025, coinciding with Christmas Day) 📍 Many temples observe Ganden Ngamchoe, including: ✅ Ramoche Temple: Less crowded, with picturesque golden butter lamps against red walls ✅ Zaki Temple: Dedicated to the God of Wealth on Wednesdays, offering blessings for prosperity with the Zambala Trio Set ✅ Sera Monastery: Witness the monks' lamp-lighting ceremony in the Tsokchen Assembly Hall and enjoy a panoramic view of Lhasa's starlit cityscape ✅ Jokhang Temple: Experience the bustling atmosphere of Barkhor Street after its closure, with the golden roof's illumination intertwining with juniper smoke 🗺️ My Itinerary To avoid the crowds, I visited the less-frequented Ramoche Temple and Zaki Temple. As it was a Wednesday, I also paid my respects to the God of Wealth at Zaki Temple (Note: Zaki Temple has different deities for each day of the week; Wednesday is for the God of Wealth) and purchased the Zambala Trio Set. 🛍️ 🔥 Core Customs 1️⃣ Lamp Lighting Ceremony: Temples and windowsills of homes are adorned with an odd number of butter lamps (symbolizing auspiciousness), burning day and night 2️⃣ Juniper Burning Ritual: Juniper branches and butter are burned together, accompanied by the chant "Lha gyalo!" to praise the Dharma 3️⃣ Sharing "Ngatu" Porridge: A vegetarian porridge made from roasted barley flour, commemorating Je Tsongkhapa's last meal 🚗 Tips * Temples remain open late on this day, with extended hours. 🌙 * The ideal time to visit is around 6:00 PM when it gets dark. 🌆 * Barkhor Street closes to vehicles in the afternoon, but pedestrians can still access it. 🚶‍♀️ * Jokhang Temple gets very crowded, so arrive early. 👇 ✨ As countless lights merge into a galaxy, for whom will you light a prayer lamp? Share your answer in the comments, or tell us about a moment of prayer that holds special meaning for you! 💌