Festivals and Celebrations in Tibet

Tibet is known for its vibrant festivals and celebrations, which offer a unique glimpse into its rich cultural and religious heritage. Here are some of the biggest festivals and events where tourists can be present and enjoy the atmosphere altogether with locals.

If you want to read more about Tibet, go to this Tibet Travel Guide, I have all the information about first time traveler in Tibet.

“Tibetan festivals and celebrations are a vibrant tapestry of color, music, and ancient traditions, offering a window into the heart and soul of Tibetan culture.”

Losar (Tibetan New Year)

Welcome to the magical celebration of Losar, the Tibetan New Year! As an experienced tour guide, I’m excited to share the wonders of this vibrant festival with you. Here’s everything you need to know to make the most of your Losar experience in Tibet.

Losar usually falls in February or March, depending on the Tibetan lunar calendar. Planning your visit around this time is crucial. Make sure to book your accommodations and travel arrangements well in advance, as this is a peak season for both locals and tourists.

In 2025, Losar will be celebrated on February 28th, and the next 2026, will be celebrated on February 18th.

The celebrations start with the preparation week, known as “Gutor.” During this time, you’ll notice homes being thoroughly cleaned to sweep away the old year’s bad luck and make way for the new year’s good fortune.

Rituals and Ceremonies

Day Before Losar (New Year’s Eve): 

On this day, families gather to prepare special dishes like “Guthuk,” a traditional soup with dumplings. Each dumpling contains a hidden item symbolizing a playful fortune for the person who finds it. In the evening, there are rituals to drive away evil spirits, often involving fireworks and the burning of incense.

First Day of Losar: 

This day is reserved for family gatherings. People dress in their finest traditional clothes and perform offerings at home altars and local monasteries. It’s a time for paying respects to ancestors and seeking blessings for the year ahead.

Second and Third Days: 

The celebrations extend to visits with friends and neighbors. You’ll see vibrant processions, traditional music, and dance performances in the streets. In Lhasa, the Jokhang Temple becomes a focal point, with thousands of pilgrims visiting to make offerings and circumambulate the temple.

Major Celebrations in Lhasa

Lhasa, the heart of Tibetan culture, hosts some of the most spectacular Losar celebrations. Key sites include:

• Jokhang Temple: Join the throngs of pilgrims at this sacred temple. The atmosphere is electric with prayers, incense, and the sound of traditional instruments.
• Potala Palace: The palace grounds are beautifully decorated, and you can witness monks performing intricate rituals.
• Norbulingka Palace: This former summer palace of the Dalai Lama hosts cultural performances, including Tibetan opera and folk dances.

Traditional Foods during Losar

Don’t miss out on tasting Losar’s festive foods:

• Guthuk: A soup with dumplings, each containing a symbolic item.
• Khapsé: Fried pastry snacks in various shapes, symbolizing good luck.
• Chang: A traditional Tibetan barley beer, often enjoyed during festive toasts.

Etiquette and Respect

While Losar is a time of joy, it’s important to observe local customs and show respect:

• Dress Modestly: Wear appropriate clothing, especially when visiting religious sites. A long skirt or trousers and a long-sleeved top are ideal.
• Participate Respectfully: Feel free to join in the festivities, but always ask for permission before taking photos, especially during private family ceremonies or in monasteries.
• Gifts: If invited to a local’s home, it’s polite to bring a small gift, such as khapsé or fruits.

Saga Dawa Festival

The second holiest and most important festival in Tibetan Buddhism is Saga Dawa.  As an experienced tour guide, I’m excited to guide you through this spiritual journey, where you’ll witness profound devotion and vibrant cultural practices.

Saga Dawa usually falls in May or June, during the fourth month of the Tibetan lunar calendar. This sacred month commemorates the birth, enlightenment, and parinirvana (death) of Buddha Shakyamuni. It is a time of deep religious observance and heightened spiritual activities.

In 2025, the Saga Dawa Festival will be celebrated on the full moon day of June 11th.

Major Celebrations in Lhasa

Jokhang Temple

Spiritual Heart: Jokhang Temple, the spiritual heart of Lhasa, is a focal point during Saga Dawa. Pilgrims from all over Tibet converge here to perform koras (circumambulations) around the temple.

Offerings and Prayers: The temple is filled with the sound of chanting, the scent of incense, and the sight of butter lamps flickering. Pilgrims make offerings of money, butter, and incense.

Prostrations: Many devotees perform prostrations, lying flat on the ground as a sign of devotion and humility. This act is believed to accumulate merit and purify negative karma.

Barkhor Street

Circumambulation: Join the throngs of pilgrims walking clockwise around Barkhor Street, which encircles Jokhang Temple. This ancient ritual is believed to bring spiritual benefits and blessings.

Cultural Immersion: The street is lined with shops selling religious artifacts, prayer beads, and traditional Tibetan cl

Pilgrimage to Mount Kailash

Mount Kailash:

Spiritual Significance: Mount Kailash is considered the center of the universe in Tibetan Buddhism. Pilgrims believe that circumambulating the mountain (a 52-kilometer trek) can wash away the sins of a lifetime.

The Kora: The trek around Mount Kailash, known as the kora, is a profound spiritual journey. It’s a physically demanding trek, but the spiritual rewards are immense. Pilgrims often perform this journey during Saga Dawa to gain the maximum merit.

Ashtapad: The Ashtapad Mountain near Mount Kailash is also a significant pilgrimage site, especially for Jains and Hindus.

Etiquette and Respect

Dress Modestly: Wear conservative clothing that covers your arms and legs. This shows respect for the religious nature of the festival.

Behavior: Always behave respectfully around sacred sites and during rituals. Avoid loud conversations and follow the lead of the local people.

Photography: Ask for permission before taking photos of people, especially during religious activities. Be mindful of signs indicating where photography is prohibited.

Shoton Festival (Yogurt Festival)

Shoton Festival is one of the most colorful and culturally rich festivals in Tibet! And I will tell you everything you need to know about this festival, so when you come to Tibet, be prepared to celebrate as locals. 

Shoton Festival typically falls in August or September, according to the Tibetan lunar calendar. Originally a religious observance for monks who completed their meditation retreats, it has evolved into a grand public celebration combining religious rituals, cultural performances, and social festivities.

Major Celebrations in Lhasa

Drepung Monastery

Thangka Unveiling: The festival kicks off with the dramatic unveiling of a giant thangka painting at Drepung Monastery. This enormous silk embroidery depicts Buddhist deities and is displayed on the hillside early in the morning. The unveiling ceremony attracts thousands of pilgrims and tourists who come to receive blessings and marvel at the intricate artwork.

Religious Significance: The thangka unveiling is a deeply spiritual event, symbolizing the enlightenment of Buddha. It’s a time for prayer, meditation, and making offerings.

Norbulingka Palace

Tibetan Opera: Following the thangka ceremony, the festivities move to Norbulingka Palace, the summer residence of the Dalai Lama. Here, you can enjoy traditional Tibetan opera performances, known as “Lhamo.” These performances tell stories from Tibetan history and mythology, combining drama, music, and dance in a vibrant display of culture.

Yak Races: Another highlight at Norbulingka is the traditional yak races. These thrilling races showcase the agility and strength of yaks, an important animal in Tibetan culture.

Picnics and Celebrations: Families and friends gather in the beautiful gardens of Norbulingka for picnics. It’s a time for socializing, enjoying local delicacies, and, of course, indulging in yogurt.

Be part of the Festival

Engaging with Locals: The Shoton Festival is a fantastic opportunity to interact with Tibetan locals. You’ll find them warm, welcoming, and eager to share their traditions with visitors.

Tibetan Opera: Don’t miss the Tibetan opera performances. The elaborate costumes, expressive masks, and dramatic storytelling offer a unique insight into Tibetan folklore and artistic heritage.

Yak Races: Watching the yak races is both exciting and culturally enriching. It’s a chance to see traditional Tibetan sportsmanship and community spirit in action.

Eating Yogurt: The festival is named after yogurt, so be sure to try some! Tibetan yogurt is thick and tangy, often enjoyed with sugar or tsampa (roasted barley flour).

Ganden Thangka Festival

The Ganden Thangka Festival is a deeply spiritual and visually stunning event in Tibet! As your experienced tour guide, I’m excited to provide you with insights and tips to make the most of your visit to this extraordinary celebration.

The Ganden Thangka Festival typically occurs in July or August, according to the Tibetan lunar calendar. It commemorates the life and teachings of Je Tsongkhapa, the founder of the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism. The festival is a time for devotion, prayer, and celebration, drawing pilgrims from all over Tibet.

Major Celebrations at Ganden Monastery

Thangka Unveiling

Giant Thangka Display: The highlight of the festival is the unveiling of enormous thangka paintings. These sacred artworks, depicting Buddhist deities and scenes from the life of Buddha, are displayed on a hillside near the monastery.

Religious Significance: The unveiling ceremony is a powerful religious event, symbolizing the revelation of divine wisdom and blessings. Pilgrims and visitors gather to pray, make offerings, and receive blessings.

Monastic Rituals

Chanting and Prayers: Monks perform elaborate chanting and prayer ceremonies throughout the festival. These rituals are meant to purify negative karma and accumulate merit.

Butter Lamp Offerings: Butter lamps are lit in large numbers, symbolizing the dispelling of darkness and ignorance.

Pilgrimage and Kora

Circumambulation: Pilgrims perform koras (circumambulations) around the monastery and the thangka paintings. This act of devotion is believed to bring spiritual merit and blessings.

Prayer Flags: Pilgrims often tie prayer flags around the monastery and nearby hills, adding to the colorful and festive atmosphere.

Participating in the Festival

Engaging with Pilgrims: The festival is a great opportunity to interact with Tibetan pilgrims. Their devotion and spiritual fervor are inspiring, and many are happy to share their stories and beliefs with respectful visitors.

Joining Rituals: Tourists are welcome to join in the koras and observe the rituals. Walking around the monastery and the thangka displays with the pilgrims can be a deeply moving experience.

Making Offerings: Participating in the act of making offerings at the monastery is a meaningful way to engage with the local culture. Common offerings include butter lamps, incense, and small donations.

Bathing Festival (Gamariji)

Bathing Festival, or Gamariji is a fascinating and refreshing celebration that showcases Tibetan spirituality and community spirit. 

The Bathing Festival is celebrated in the seventh month of the Tibetan lunar calendar, usually falling between late August and early September. This period coincides with the appearance of the star Venus, which Tibetans believe blesses the water with purification powers.

Major Celebrations Throughout Tibet

Spiritual and Health Beliefs

Blessed Waters: Tibetans believe that during this week, all natural water sources are imbued with special powers. Bathing in these waters can wash away sins, cure diseases, and bring good fortune.

Cleansing Rituals: The festival is rooted in ancient beliefs that combine Buddhist teachings with local traditions. It’s a time for physical and spiritual cleansing.

Community Activities

Bathing Together: Families and communities gather at rivers, lakes, and hot springs to bathe together. This communal activity strengthens social bonds and provides an opportunity for people to reconnect with nature.

Festive Atmosphere: The atmosphere is joyful and lively, with people enjoying picnics, singing, and dancing by the water. It’s a time for relaxation and celebration.

Traditional Practices

Special Foods: During the festival, families prepare and share special foods. You might find local delicacies like tsampa (roasted barley flour) and butter tea being enjoyed by the water.

Prayer and Offerings: Many participants perform prayers and make offerings to the deities, seeking blessings for health and prosperity. Small altars with incense and butter lamps are set up near bathing sites.

If you are in Tibet during this period of celebration the Bathing Festival, Gamariji, I assure you that you will have a lot of joy and deep spiritual experiences. 

Tashilhunpo Thangka Festival

Tashilhunpo Thangka Festival is a deeply spiritual and visually stunning celebration! 

The Tashilhunpo Thangka Festival typically takes place in July, according to the Tibetan lunar calendar. This festival honors the teachings and spiritual legacy of the Panchen Lama, the second-highest-ranking lama in Tibetan Buddhism. It’s a time for devotees to accumulate merit, seek blessings, and engage in deep spiritual reflection.

Celebrations at Tashilhunpo Monastery

Thangka Unveiling

Giant Thangka Display: The festival’s highlight is the unveiling of enormous thangka paintings. These sacred artworks, depicting various Buddhas and Buddhist deities, are displayed on a massive wall within the monastery grounds.

Religious Significance: The thangka paintings are unveiled to invoke blessings and protection for the region and its people. Pilgrims come to pay their respects, offer prayers, and receive blessings from the sacred images.

Religious Ceremonies

Chanting and Prayers: Monks at Tashilhunpo Monastery perform elaborate chanting and prayer ceremonies. These rituals are meant to purify negative karma and bring peace and prosperity.

Butter Lamp Offerings: Devotees light hundreds of butter lamps as offerings, symbolizing the dispelling of darkness and ignorance. The sight of these lamps flickering in unison is both beautiful and spiritually uplifting.

Pilgrimage and Kora

Circumambulation: Pilgrims perform koras (circumambulations) around the monastery and the thangka displays. This act of devotion is believed to accumulate merit and cleanse the soul.

Prayer Flags: Pilgrims often tie colorful prayer flags around the monastery and nearby hills, adding to the festive and spiritual atmosphere.

The Tashilhunpo Thangka Festival offers a unique opportunity to witness Tibetan religious devotion and cultural richness. 

Ongkor Festival (Bumper Harvest Festival)

The Ongkor Festival offers a unique opportunity to experience the agricultural traditions and community spirit of Tibet.

The Ongkor Festival is celebrated in August or September, aligning with the Tibetan lunar calendar. It celebrates the completion of the harvest and expresses gratitude for the bountiful crops. “Ongkor” means “circling the fields,” reflecting the tradition of farmers walking around their fields to pray for a good harvest.

Celebrations in Agricultural Regions

Shigatse

Community Gatherings: In the Shigatse region, communities come together to celebrate Ongkor with various activities. The festivities often take place in the fields and village centers, creating a lively and communal atmosphere.

Traditional Songs and Dances: Local people perform traditional Tibetan songs and dances, expressing joy and gratitude. The vibrant costumes and rhythmic movements provide a captivating cultural experience for visitors.

Lhasa Suburbs

Festive Processions: In the outskirts of Lhasa, farmers organize processions where they carry harvest offerings and sacred objects. These processions are often accompanied by music, chanting, and dancing.

Agricultural Rituals: Rituals are performed to bless the fields and ensure future prosperity. Offerings of barley, wheat, and other crops are made to local deities and spirits.

Key Activities and Events

Horse Racing

Exciting Races: Horse racing is a highlight of the Ongkor Festival. Riders showcase their skills and the speed of their horses in thrilling races that draw large crowds. This traditional sport is deeply rooted in Tibetan culture and adds excitement to the festivities.

Archery Contests

Skillful Competitions: Archery contests are another popular event during Ongkor. Participants demonstrate their precision and skill with bows and arrows, competing for honor and prizes. These contests are a nod to ancient Tibetan warrior traditions.

Traditional Entertainment

Songs and Dances: Throughout the festival, you’ll enjoy performances of traditional songs and dances. These cultural displays reflect the local heritage and provide a joyful and engaging atmosphere.

Cultural Displays: Local artisans and craftsmen often display their work, offering a glimpse into Tibetan art and handicrafts. This is a great opportunity to purchase unique souvenirs and support local artisans.

As your guide, I’m here to help you navigate this joyous celebration, ensuring you leave with cherished memories and a deeper appreciation of Tibetan culture. 

Horse Racing Festival

The Horse Racing Festival is a dynamic and culturally rich event that highlights the nomadic heritage of Tibet! This  Festival typically takes place in the summer, from June to August, although specific dates vary by region. This festival is a major event in nomadic areas, celebrating the importance of horses in Tibetan life and showcasing the skills of Tibetan horsemen.

Celebrations in Key Regions

Gyantse

Gyantse Damar Festival: Held in July, this festival features horse races, archery contests, and traditional Tibetan music and dance performances. It is one of the oldest and most famous horse racing festivals in Tibet.

Nagqu

Nagqu Horse Racing Festival: Typically held in August, this is the largest horse racing festival in Tibet. Thousands of nomads from all over the plateau gather in Nagqu for several days of races, games, and festivities.

Litang

Litang Horse Festival: Held in August in the Litang region of Sichuan Province, this festival is a major event for the Kham Tibetans. It features thrilling horse races, as well as performances of traditional Khampa music and dance.

Key Activities and Events

Horse Races

Speed Races: Riders compete in fast-paced races, showcasing the speed and endurance of their horses. These races are highly competitive and a major highlight of the festival.

Obstacle Races: Some festivals feature obstacle courses where riders must navigate their horses through various challenges, demonstrating their agility and skill.

Yak Races

Exciting Competitions: In addition to horse races, yak races are also a popular event. These races are a thrilling spectacle, highlighting the strength and agility of yaks, which are essential to the nomadic way of life.

Archery Contests:

Skillful Archery: Archery is a traditional Tibetan sport, and contests are held during the festival. Participants demonstrate their precision and accuracy, competing for honor and prizes.

Traditional Performances:

Music and Dance: The festival features vibrant performances of traditional Tibetan music and dance. Performers wear colorful costumes and play traditional instruments, creating a festive and joyous atmosphere.

Cultural Displays: Local artisans often showcase their crafts, including weaving, painting, and jewelry making. This is a great opportunity to purchase unique souvenirs and support local craftsmanship.