9 Days Tibetan Shoton Festival 2026: Yogurt Festival, Tibetan Opera & EBC

Tashi Delek! Welcome to Lhasa, the capital of the Tibet Autonomous Region! Upon arrival at Lhasa Gonggar International Airport or Lhasa Railway Station, our friendly Tibetan guide will greet you with a Hada (a traditional white silk scarf) and warm blessings. (Tip: Please let us know your mode of transportation and arrival time in advance.)

After that, our guide and driver will escort you to your hotel in downtown Lhasa. (Tip: The airport is located about 60 km southeast of the city, 1-1.5 hours’ drive.)

After check-in, take the rest of the day to relax and acclimatize to Lhasa’s high altitude (3,650 m). It’s important to allow your body to adjust before beginning your exciting journey through Tibet.

Flight Booking Suggestion for Day 1:

Since you will need to wake up very early the next morning to attend the Drepung Monastery Thangka-Unveiling Ceremony, we highly recommend booking a flight that arrives in Lhasa in the morning on Day 1. This will allow you to rest well and save your energy for the next day’s activities.

Helpful Reminders for Your First Day in Lhasa

• Take a good rest and stay calm.This is the best way to prevent altitude sickness.
• Avoid strenuous activity and you’d betternot take a shower on the first night to prevent catching a cold.
• Do not drink alcohol. Instead, drink plenty of water, eat fruits, and avoid heavy meals.
• If you wish, you can prepare herbal or oxygen supplements such as Rhodiola, American ginseng lozenges, or Gaoyuan’anto help with adaptation.
• Always follow the advice of your local guide. If you feel unwell, inform your guide and seek medical attention promptly.

Lhasa Gonggar International Airport

Welcome Our Dear Guests at Lhasa Airport

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Lhasa

After breakfast, your group will visit Jokhang Temple, the spiritual heart of Lhasa with a history of more than 1,300 years. From afar, you’ll see countless devoted pilgrims prostrating in front of the temple. Stop for a while to witness this moving sight and the unwavering faith of Tibetan Buddhists. This will be a moment to touch your soul.

According to legend, Jokhang Temple was built by King Songtsen Gampo for his two brides - Princess Wencheng of China and Princess Bhrikuti of Nepal. The name Jokhang means “House of the Buddha,” and the temple enshrines a life-sized statue of the 12-year-old Sakyamuni, one of the most sacred treasures in the Buddhist world. This makes Jokhang Temple the holiest pilgrimage site in Tibet.

Take time to explore the temple’s intricate architecture - admire the colorful murals, ornate decorations, and fine carvings that showcase the essence of Tibetan craftsmanship. From the second floor, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the bustling Barkhor Street below.

Visiting Tips for Jokhang Temple:

• Visiting time: about 1 hour.
• Admission requires real-name reservation through the “Jokhang Temple Reservation” WeChat between 7:00-23:59 for the next day. Reservations are limited, so please book in advance with your guide’s assistance.
• Jokhang Temple is an active religious site. During important religious ceremonies or special events, access may be restricted -your understanding is appreciated.

After the visit, step outside to Barkhor Street, once the traditional kora (pilgrimage circuit) around the temple. Today, it’s a lively place filled with the scent of incense and the sounds of chanting pilgrims. You can sip yak butter tea at a teahouse, dress in Tibetan attire for photos, or shop for unique handicrafts and souvenirs from Tibet, Nepal, and India.

This afternoon, immerse yourself in traditional Tibetan arts at the Lhasa Traditional Handicraft Art Center. Take part in making Tibetan incense, practicing Tibetan calligraphy, and learning the secrets of traditional woodblock printing.

Tibetan incense is commonly burned as an offering during Buddhist ceremonies and rituals. Its ingredients often include juniper, sandalwood, cedarwood, cinnamon, cloves, and a variety of medicinal herbs.

In addition to crafting incense, you can observe the full process demonstrated by the local artisan, who will teach you Tibetan calligraphy and help you write your own name or blessing in the Tibetan script. This makes for a meaningful keepsake to bring home as a memory.

After the tour, be escorted back to your hotel in Lhasa.

Jokhang Temple with Gilted Roof

A Large Group of Our Guests Visited Jokhang Temple

Make Tibetan Incense

Tibetan Calligraphy & Block Printing, Lhasa

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Today is the most important day of the Shoton Festival. You will need to rise very early to join the crowd heading up the mountain path behind Drepung Monastery to the Thangka Unveiling Platform. Experience the powerful atmosphere of pilgrimage as thousands of devotees from across Tibet make their way toward the monastery, prayer wheels in hand, softly chanting as they walk toward this sacred site.

The Thangka Unveiling Ceremony at Drepung Monastery is the highlight of every Shoton Festival and draws countless pilgrims and visitors. Before dawn breaks, streams of faithful worshippers flow into the monastery grounds, moving with deep devotion. As the first light of morning appears, the sound of chanting drifts through the monastery. Monks in deep crimson robes solemnly carry out a massive Thangka of Buddha Shakyamuni from the monastery’s treasure chamber. Despite its age, the Thangka remains vivid and exquisite, each stroke reflecting generations of craftsmanship and faith.

With coordinated effort, monks pull the ropes to gradually unfold the enormous Thangka across the steep hillside behind the monastery. People of all ages gather together in this holy moment, offering prayers for good fortune, harmony, and well-being. The Drepung Shoton Thangka Unveiling is more than a religious ritual - it is a vivid expression of Tibetan cultural heritage and spiritual devotion, leaving a lifelong impression on all who witness it.

In the afternoon, take a short drive to Sera Monastery, one of the three great Gelug university monasteries of Tibet. Here, you will engage closely with Tibetan Buddhist culture. The highlight is the famous monks’ debate, held daily from around 15:00 to 17:00 (except Sundays). One monk asks questions while standing, using symbolic hand gestures such as clapping and foot-stomping to “activate wisdom,” while the seated monks respond. You may also observe prayer rituals, meditation halls, and learn more about monastic life.

Warm Reminder: If the monastery is hosting special ceremonies, the debate session may be cancelled.

After the visit, you will be transferred back to your hotel in Lhasa.

Experience Shoton Festival in August at Drepung Monastery

Monk Ceremony, Shoton Festival

Lhasa Sera Monastery Daily Debate Scene

A Large Group of Our Guests Visited Sera Monastery

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Lhasa

This morning, you’ll first explore the Potala Palace, the most iconic landmark of Tibet and the former winter residence of the Dalai Lamas (1649–1959). After climbing 365 stone steps from the palace gate to the Red Palace, you’ll reach the highest ancient palace in the world - standing proudly at 3,700 meters above sea level - and enjoy a stunning panoramic view of Lhasa city.

As you wander through its halls, chapels, and sacred shrines honoring past Dalai Lamas, you’ll be captivated by the intricate murals, exquisite carvings, dazzling jeweled decorations, and the profound spiritual atmosphere that fills the air. Inside the Potala Palace, countless Tibetan pilgrims can be seen bowing and praying devoutly - for many, visiting this sacred site is truly a journey of a lifetime.

Your guide will also share fascinating stories about King Songtsen Gampo, the 33rd ruler of Tibet, who originally built the Potala Palace in the 7th century to honor his marriage to Princess Wencheng of the Tang Dynasty.

Potala Palace Visiting Tips

• All visitors must enter as part of a guided groupand may stay inside for a maximum of one hour.
• Tickets are issued under real-name reservation system. A valid ID or passport is required, and once reserved, rebooking is not allowed within seven days.
• Entry times are assigned randomlyby the Potala Palace Administration; it’s not possible to choose your visiting hour.
• During peak season, your travel group may be divided into smaller sub-groupswith different visiting times or guides.
• Photography is strictly prohibitedinside the palace.

Afterward, your guide and driver will take you to the Norbulingka Summer Palace to enjoy the Tibetan Opera performances of the Shoton (Yogurt) Festival and appreciate the stunning natural landscape. Don’t forget to sample Tibetan yogurt and spend a relaxing day in Norbulingka Park, just like the local Tibetans do.

Also known as the “Jeweled Park”, Norbulingka is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built by the 7th Dalai Lama in 1755, it served as the summer residence of successive Dalai Lamas. The complex consists of three main parts: the courtyard in front of the palace, the palace buildings, and the surrounding forest.

With over 400 rooms of various sizes, Norbulingka is the largest, most magnificent, and best-preserved palace garden in Tibet. It blends gardening, architecture, and sculpture from Tibetan, Han, and other ethnic traditions. The well-preserved murals, mandalas, and frescoes are fascinating highlights not to be missed.

Today, Norbulingka Park is a lively hub of entertainment - filled with dancing, singing, music, and festivities, especially during the annual Shoton (Yogurt) Festival, when you can enjoy authentic Tibetan Opera performances. You can even join local Tibetans for a cheerful outdoor celebration.

Special Meal Arranged by AOT:

On this day, enjoy a group meal featuring delicious Tibetan or Nepalese cuisine, specially arranged by the AOT team.

Dawn of Potala Palace

Our Dear Guest Visited Yaowang Hill to Overlook Potala Palace

Dances at Shoton Festival

Tibet Opera at Shoton Festival

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Today, you’ll embark on a scenic drive from Lhasa to Shigatse, Tibet’s second-largest city. The journey covers around 370 kilometers and takes 7 hours’ drive, with stops to admire two of Tibet’s most spectacular natural wonders - Yamdrok Lake and Karola Glacier.

In the morning, after about 2-3 hours of driving (110 km), get your camera ready as you approach Kampala Pass (4,797 m). Here, you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking panoramic view of Yamdrok Lake, a turquoise ribbon shimmering among snow-capped mountains. Known as one of Tibet’s four sacred lakes (along with Lhamo Latso, Manasarovar, and Namtso), Yamdrok is believed to hold spiritual power - helping Tibetans locate the reincarnated soul of the Dalai Lama. You’ll also see locals offering photo opportunities with Tibetan mastiffs, yaks, or goats dressed in traditional ornaments.

Specially Arranged Meal at Yamdrok Lake by AOT:
Take a break at Yamdrok Lake to enjoy a special Hot Pot arranged by Asia Odyssey Travel. Fresh dish, stunning lake views, totally get relaxed. Also have time to take beautiful photos before or after your meal.

In the afternoon, continue driving for about 1.5 hours (87 km) to reach the stunning Karola Glacier (5,012 m) - one of Tibet’s three major continental glaciers and a filming site of the movie Red Valley (Hong He Gu). Backed by Naiqin Kangsang Peak (7,191 m), the glacier gleams like a frozen waterfall cascading right beside the highway. You can enjoy the view from your vehicle or take a short, easy walk to the glacier’s base. Across the road, admire the majestic snow-capped Mount Kalurong - another highlight of this alpine wonderland.

Tips for visiting Karola Glacier:

• The alitude here is about 5,012 meters, so move slowly and avoid overexertion.
• The public toilets are very basic -be prepared.
• Some locals may charge a small fee for taking photos with them or their animals -always confirm before photographing.

Afterward, drive about 3.5 hours (170 km) through Gyantse, aalong the wide Nianchu River Valley, passing through scenic Tibetan villages, vast barley fields, and golden rapeseed flower fields (in summer). Upon arrival in Shigatse (altitude: 3845 meters), check into your hotel and rest well.

Warm Reminder:

For foreign and Taiwan travelers, registration at the Shigatse Entry & Exit Administration Office is required. Your guide will assist with the process and may adjust the schedule accordingly - please follow their instructions and cooperate as needed.

A Large Group of Our Guests Visited Yamdrok Lake

Amazing Glacier at Karora

Yamdrok Lake Dining

Yamdrok Lake HOT POT Experience

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Today, your whole group will drive from Shigatse toward to Mount Everest (Qomolangma), the highest mountain on Earth. Along the way, admire the stunning transformation of the landscape as you ascend toward the Himalayas.

Gyawu La Pass - the Everest Viewing Platform

Follow the famous 108 switchbacks along the Everest Road to reach Gyawu La Pass (5210 m), also known as the Everest Viewing Platform. On clear days, this is one of the few places on Earth where you can see five of the world’s highest peaks above 8,000 meters lined up before you - Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and Shishapangma. The panoramic view is awe-inspiring, with the mighty snow peaks stretching endlessly across the horizon.

Rongbuk Monastery - the Highest Monastery in the World

Continue to Rongbuk Monastery (5154 m), nestled at the foot of the Rongbuk Glacier. It is the highest monastery in the world, belonging to the Nyingma school of Tibetan Buddhism, and is home to both monks and nuns. The monastery is divided into old and new sections - the old one preserves meditation caves believed to have been used by Guru Padmasambhava, while the new section offers a spectacular view of Mount Everest’s north face. The white chorten and mani stones at the entrance make for iconic photo compositions - quiet, sacred, and timeless.

Everest Base Camp - Touching the Summit of the World

Standing at 8,848 meters, Mount Everest straddles the border between China and Nepal in the central Himalayas. The endless glaciers, hanging ice cliffs, and snow-covered ridges create a view of rare beauty and grandeur.

Then, head to Everest Base Camp (EBC, 5200 m) - the closest point ordinary travelers can get to the world’s highest peak. Surrounded by tented lodges, EBC stands just 19 km in a straight line from Mount Everest’s summit. Here, you can truly feel the majesty of the mountain - towering, powerful, and humbling. Many visitors describe this as a once-in-a-lifetime experience, with Everest’s sheer presence leaving an unforgettable impression.

Warm Tips for Visiting EBC:

• From Everest Town (50 km from EBC), travelers must transfer to the eco-friendly shuttle bus for the final stretch to Base Camp, and return the next day the same way. Your main driver and vehicle will not accompany you - please bring all essentials with you.
• Accommodation at EBC is in tented camps (reconstructed in 2025) with improved facilities, now offering twin rooms and a simple dining tent. However, amenities remain basic with shared bathrooms. Supplies are limited due to high altitude, so please be understanding.
• During winter, if the tent camp is closed due to weather, the group will stay in a guesthouse in Everest Town (or called Tashizom Town) with private bathroom.
• The altitude and temperature can be extreme -even in summer, nighttime temperatures may drop to 08°C. Please dress warmly or rent a down jacket at Base Camp if needed.

A Group of Our Guests Visited Gyawu La Pass for Amazing Photos

Our Dear Guests Visited Mount Everest Base Camp

Mount Everest Peak, Tibet

Mount Everest, Tibet

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EBC

Wake up to the crisp morning air at EBC. Take a quiet moment to embrace the majesty of Mount Everest and the surrounding Himalayas. If you wish, begin your day with some gentle yoga or meditation to refresh both body and mind, or enjoy a peaceful walk around the base camp for close-up views of this extraordinary landscape.

Tip: If weather permits, you can enjoy the Golden Summit view - one of the most breathtaking sights on Earth. The best seasons are spring (April–May) and autumn (September–November), when the skies are usually clear. You’ll need to rise early and take a short hike to the viewing point to see the snowcapped peaks glowing golden in the morning light.

After a memorable morning at Everest Base Camp, start your return journey to Shigatse City. En route, make a stop at Gyatso La Pass (5,248 m) - the highest point along the Sino-Nepal Friendship Highway and part of the Mount Everest National Nature Reserve. From the viewing platform, admire the towering peaks of Mount Everest (8,848.86 m), Cho Oyu, Lhotse, and Makalu, all rising above 8,000 meters. The colorful prayer flags fluttering in the wind add a touch of sacred beauty to this spectacular panorama - a perfect spot for photos.

Continue your scenic drive back to Shigatse, check into your hotel, and enjoy a relaxing evening with a warm shower after the day’s adventure. Overnight in Shigatse.

Mount Everest, Tibet

Mount Everest, Tibet

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This morning, visit Tashilhunpo Monastery, the spiritual heart of Shigatse.

Founded in 1447 by Gyalwa Gedun Drup, the 1st Dalai Lama and a disciple of Tsongkhapa, Tashilhunpo Monastery is the largest monastery in Tibet’s Tsang region and one of the six great Gelug monasteries alongside Drepung, Sera, Ganden, Labrang, and Ta’er. It has long been the traditional seat of the Panchen Lamas, the second-highest incarnation lineage in Tibetan Buddhism after the Dalai Lama.

At its height, the monastery housed over 5,000 monks and included more than 3,000 rooms, 50 affiliated temples, and 30 manors and pastures. Today, you can still sense its grandeur as you explore its vast complex of prayer halls, courtyards, and golden roofs glinting under the sun.

Highlights of Tashihunpo Monastery:

• Admir the Maitreya (Future Buddha) Chapel, which enshrines a magnificent bronze statue of the Maitreya Buddha -made with over 115 tons of copper, 250 kg of gold, and adorned with more than 1,400 precious jewels including diamonds and pearls.
• Pay repect to the sacred stupas (reliquary chortens) of successive Panchen Lamas, exquisitely crafted with gold, silver, coral, pearls, turquoise, and silk.
• Enjoy a panoramic view of Shigatse city and the serene monastic life, where monks in crimson robes chant sutras echoing through the halls.

After visiting Tashilhunpo Monastery, drive back to Lhasa along the scenic Friendship Highway, following the Yarlung Tsangpo River. The journey takes about 4.5-5 hours (270 km). Upon arrival, check into your hotel and relax for the night.

Overnight in Lhasa.

Tashilhunpo Monastery in Shigatse (Tibet)

Our Dear Guests Visited Tashilhunpo Monastery in Summer

Interior of Tashilhunpo Monastery

Tashilhunpo Monastery, Religious Site in Tibet

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Lhasa

After breakfast, it’s time to say goodbye to the holy city of Lhasa. Your guide and driver will escort you to Lhasa Gonggar Airport or Lhasa Railway Station. Take your flight or train to next destination or go home.

Travel Tips:

1. The drive from downtown Lhasa to the airport takes about 1 hour, so we recommend booking flights departing after 10:00 AM.
2. Please share your flight or train schedulewith us in advance to ensure a smooth transfer.
3. Kindly provide accurate flight or train booking detailsso that we can arrange the group’s complimentary shared transfer efficiently.

Thank you for choosing Asia Odyssey Travel for Tibet Group Tour. We hope to see you on your next journey!

Welcome to Tibet with AOT

Lhasa Railway Station

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