Oct 17

Over lunchtime, on Oct.17, our local tour guide in Lhasa got a call from his manager, mentioning not taking groups to Jorkang temple and Barkor streets, which actually were the plan for that afternoon. I had felt lucky that Dreprang Monastery was not on our itinerary when told by another guide that no allowance there to all visitors at all on 17 th. We were at dinner the day before at Lhasa Kitchen.

Why,then?

It was on that day, the current Dalai Lama was awarded by American Congress a gold medal. To avoid any celebration and political embarraseement, at his former site of government offices and more known landmarks of Lhasa, the Jorkang temple and Bankor streets, here came the order.

The guide, me and driver decided still to go, after checking with other groups who did make to the 'sensitive' places. Meanwhile, I was guessing the Potala Palace, the symbol of Lhasa should be more forbidden. But we noticed nothing different from usual the same day in the morning. I didn't know for sure, the fire close to its east section of the palace was related or not to this event.

We reached there, but instead of parking at a regular lot, we were guilded a little far away. We walked extra five minutes only, and we did visit both places and shop around freely individually. When most of us were ready for regroup at 5:15 pm we were asked to leave politely while still waiting for several late returnees. Not only foreigners group, but also Chinese too. They were nervous by any inapproriate protests or actions, I guess?

Jorkang temple, the holiest among the tibetan people, attacts numberless pilgrims who travel hundreds of mile from hometown to worship. Everytime I am so touched and moved by them, their strong faith and nonstop prostrating and kneeling and praying. Hope Buddha bless them!

And among so many interesting attractions in Lhasa, my favourite is Norblingka park, which was the summer palace. Ablaze with so many colors of flowers and trees, while breathing the crsip, peaceful and fresh yak-butter-free air, observing the shadow of tall poplar and cyrpess trees cast on the yellow walls, red gate and purple buildings, I am always lost.