The number of pilgrims to Lhasa hit new high

The number of pilgrims to Lhasa hit new high

    Chinanews,Lhasa, June 14 - With the operation of Qinghai-Tibet Railway, the number of pilgrims from Qinghai or Sichuan provinces to Lhasa hit new high, according to the statistics of Tibet Regional Department of Culture.
    It is the dream of many Tibetans to go on pilgrimage to Drepung, Sera and Ganden monasteries, the 3 great temples in Lahsa, as well as the Jokhang Temple. Obviously, the railway has made it easier for them to fulfill their dream.
    In 2006 alone, the Potala Palace, Norbu Lingka, and Jokhang Temple received 328 thousand pilgrims, some 62,000 more than in 2005. In the previous 7-day May Day holiday, Norbu Lingka alone received 73,000-some visitors, including 40,000-plus pilgrims.
    "In the past, pilgrims from my hometown had to take buses or taxis to Lhasa, and the journey was as tedious as it could be very dangerous. Though travel by the train is no cheaper than other options, it is much more convenient anyway," said a pilgrim.
    The railway benefits not only non-Tibetan travelers from outside Tibet, but also Tibetans themselves, for whom a 7-day holiday will be enough to go on a pilgrim.