Discover Tibet: An Exclusive Tour of the YoghurtFestival

Tibet holds a special festival known as the “Yoghurt Festival” or “Shoton Festival”, translating to the celebration of consuming yoghurt. This Tibetan Shoton festival is also known as Tibetan Opera Festival.

Buddha Sakyamuni mandated all his monks to retreat during the monsoon season to prevent harm to small insects and other living beings.

The significance of Buddha in Tibetan culture and religious festivals is profound, with artistic representations found in Thangka painting and large-scale displays during events like the Shoton Festival. There’s an exclusive tour during this unique festivity, which includes offerings of yogurt to monks at the end of their retreat.

Tours Highlights of the Shoton Festival

• One-time exclusive tour specifically for the Yoghurt Festival.
• Welcoming globetrotters from Taiwan, Malaysia, Hong Kong, Macau, Singapore, and more.
• Travel route: Lhasa → Shigatse → Everest Base Camp → Shigatse → Namtso Lake → Lhasa.
• No surcharges for solo travelers, and even more discounts for group sign-ups.
• Tips for drivers and guides are optional.
• No mandatory shopping stops, ensuring a pure travel experience.
• An easy-going, hassle-free Tibetan journey awaits you.
• Experience traditional Tibetan Opera performances at Norbulingka Palace during the festival.
• Witness the significant cultural event of Tibetan Opera during the Shoton Festival.

Tours Features:

• Participate in Tibet’s most significant annual festival, the Shoton Yoghurt Festival.
• Free access to the Potala Palace.
• Close encounters with two major sacred lakes: Yamdrok Lake and Namtso.
• Enjoy the magnificent views of Mount Everest.
• Leisurely explore Lhasa city with visits to Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, and Barkhor Street.
• Learn about the Dalai Lama’s historical and cultural significance in Tibet, including his influence on local festivals and cultural practices.
• Visit Norbulingka, the Summer Palace of the Dalai Lama, and experience its role during the Shoton Festival with Tibetan opera performances and picnics in its gardens.
• Accompanied by excellent Chinese-speaking guides throughout the trip.
• Travel in safety, with oxygen cylinders available in every vehicle.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 01: Arrive in Lhasa, the Heart of Tibet

On your first day, you’ll arrive in Lhasa, the spiritual heart of Tibet. The town welcomes you warmly as you begin to acclimate to the high altitude. Take it easy and soak in the beauty of the region.

Day 02: Explore the Cultural Richness of Lhasa

Start your morning with a visit to the iconic Potala Palace, once the winter retreat of the Dalai Lama. In the afternoon, explore the spiritual depth of Jokhang Temple and wander through Barkhor Street, mingling with locals and travelers alike.

Day 03: Immerse Yourself in the Shoton Festival

Experience the vibrant Shoton Festival, also known as the Yoghurt Festival, at Drepung Monastery. Watch the grand Tibetan opera performances and witness monks and locals gather for this traditional celebration. Later, explore Sera Monastery, renowned for its lively debates on Tibetan Buddhism.

Day 04: Journey Through Tibet’s Scenic Beauty to Shigatse

Set out on a breathtaking journey to Yamdrok Lake, where the surreal beauty of Tibet unfolds. Visit Karola Glacier, pass through the historic town of Gyantse, and end the day at Shigatse’s Tashilhunpo Monastery, home to the Panchen Lama.

Day 05: Adventure to Everest Base Camp

Embark on an adventurous trek to Everest Base Camp, where you can capture stunning views of the world’s highest peak from Rongbuk Monastery. Spend the night near the base camp, under the starlit sky.

Day 06: Sunrise Over Everest

Witness the awe-inspiring sunrise at Everest before traveling back to Shigatse. The morning light on the mountain is a sight that will stay with you forever.

Day 07: Return to Lhasa via the Yarlung Tsangpo Valley

Head back to Lhasa, passing through the picturesque Yarlung Tsangpo Valley. The region’s beauty and the serenity of the landscape offer a perfect retreat.

Day 08: Namtso Lake Excursion

Embark on a day trip to Namtso Lake, the world’s highest saltwater lake. Witness the stunning natural beauty and the deep blue waters of the lake before returning to Lhasa in the evening.

Day 09: Departure from Lhasa

Conclude your journey with a farewell to Lhasa. We’ll ensure your smooth departure, leaving you with lasting memories of Tibet’s rich culture, festivals, and spiritual heritage.

Note: Experience a soul-touching journey across Tibet, amidst monasteries, mountains, and lakes. Celebrate the traditional Yoghurt Festival and create lasting memories. Book now to enjoy exclusive offers. Always remember to take things slow due to the high altitude, and inform your guides in case of discomfort. Safe travels!

What’s Included

• All Tibet entry permit paperwork
• Licensed tourist vehicle with oxygen cylinders (includes driver’s accommodation, tolls, fuel, and mountain entry fees)
• Accommodation in nearly four-star hotels throughout the trip
• Breakfast provided by the hotel
• Excellent Englsih-speaking guide service (includes guide’s accommodation)
• Travel agency liability insurance and vehicle seat insurance

What’s Not Included

• Round-trip transportation from your starting location to Lhasa (booking service available)
• Entrance tickets purchased on-site
• Meals ordered and paid for by yourself (approx. 30-60 RMB per meal)
• Any personal expenses and anything not mentioned in the “What’s Included” section