Saga Dawa festival tour Tibet

Welcome to Lhasa, the spiritual heart of Tibet and a modern utopia. Your friendly Tibetan guide and drivers shall eagerly wait to greet you at Lhasa Gonggar Airport. Upon arrival, you'll receive a traditional white Khada and a refreshing drink during a brief welcome ceremony. Relax and let our team handle your luggage as you enjoy the scenic ride to your hotel in Lhasa city. Your guide will assist with check-in and share the next day's travel plans. Enjoy a comfortable stay at one of Lhasa's luxury hotels, preparing for an exciting tour tomorrow.

Today, you'll journey to Tibet's most sacred sanctuary, the Jokhang Temple. It stands at the heart of Lhasa's Saga Dawa Festival, a vibrant celebration buzzing with spiritual energy. At dawn, pilgrims flock from every direction to pay homage to the statue of the 12-year-old Buddha inside. They perform Kora, circling the temple along Barkhor Street, an ancient path teeming with life. Around the temple, beggars and humble pilgrims gather quietly, marking Saga Dawa as "the Poor's Day." During this auspicious time, people believe their acts of kindness are magnified manifold, prompting generous donations.

Founded in the 7th century by Tibet's 33rd Great King, the Jokhang Temple shelters the revered statue of Buddha Sakyamuni as a youth. Outside, devotees prostrate in deep reverence. Nearby, Barkhor Street beckons with its bustling markets and the opportunity to join pilgrims in Kora, a sacred ritual encircling the temple or mountain. This day promises a profound immersion in Tibetan spirituality amidst a tapestry of ancient traditions and vibrant community life.

Begin your day with a visit to Drepung Monastery, the largest Gelugpa monastery, just 8km west of central Lhasa. Enjoy a scenic hike, marvel at the enormous religious painting on the rock, explore the vast monk kitchen, and take in the breathtaking views of the Lhasa valley. Feeling tired? Refresh yourself with a sip from the mountain spring. If you're lucky to visit during the Shoton Festival, you'll witness the awe-inspiring Thangka unveiling ceremony.

After lunch, head to Sera Monastery, the second-largest Gelugpa monastery in Lhasa. Here, you can watch the famous "monk debate" in the lively debate courtyard, where monks energetically slap hands, yell, and jump. You can also admire the intricate sand mandala, visit the Buddhist scripture printing press, and explore the main assembly hall. In the evening, experience the grand Princess Wencheng Real-scene Musical in an open-air theater, showcasing the legendary marriage between Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo and Princess Wencheng from the Tang Dynasty, and immerse yourself in Tibetan culture and traditions.

Begin your adventure by crossing the lofty Gampala pass at 4790 meters. From there, gaze upon the serene Yamdrok Lake at 4400 meters, encircled by majestic snow-capped peaks. Catch a glimpse of the awe-inspiring Holy Mount Nyenchen Khangsar rising to 7191 meters, the tallest peak near Lhasa. Along the lakeshore, savor different vantage points and immerse yourself in local village life, perhaps sharing a meal with a welcoming family.

Continue your journey, encountering the immense Korola Glacier, Tibet’s largest, where the glaciers icy fingers stretch up the mountainside, a testament to nature’s wonder. Heading towards Gyantse, pause at Simila Mountain Pass to hang prayer flags, offering wishes for global harmony and your loved ones' well-being. Arrive in Gyantse to capture timeless snapshots of its ancient charm. En route to Shigatse, pass through verdant Tibetan barley fields, lush in summer and golden in autumn, punctuated by countless farms. Finally, reach Shigatse, Tibet’s second-largest city. Check into your hotel, unwind, and prepare for the upcoming journey to Mount Everest, rejuvenated and ready for the next adventure.

Tomorrow morning, our first stop will be the residence of Panchan Lama - Tashilunpo Monastery. Here, you'll marvel at the world's largest preserved statue of Jampa, known as the Future God. This monastery has been a sacred residence for many Penchen Lamas over the years. Afterward, we'll journey through the breathtaking Yalong Valley on our way back to Lhasa. Your guide will ensure you're safely transferred back to your hotel upon our return.

Make sure to confirm your departure flight or train details with our guide beforehand. Your guide will then accompany you to the airport or train station.