Shoton Festival Tour 2025

(1 customer review)
  • Lhasa
  • 118 booked
  • Duration: 6 DAYS
  • Language: English

Overview

Shoton, a Tibetan term meaning “Yogurt Festival,” is a vibrant and ancient celebration that marks the arrival of summer in Tibet. Also known as the Summer Opera Festival, it traces its origins to the time when monks, after a long summer retreat of meditation and fasting, were treated to yogurt as a sign of hospitality and joy. Over the centuries, this simple tradition has evolved into a grand cultural event, rich in religious significance and lively performances.

During the reign of the Fifth Dalai Lama, the festival was further enriched with traditional Tibetan dances, such as Tashi SholpaTropa, and the Lhamo opera, all of which were held at Drepung Monastery. These performances were part of the ritual welcoming of a newly unveiled Thangka (a sacred Tibetan scroll painting). Over time, the festival moved to Norbulingka, the summer residence of the Dalai Lama, where it continues to be celebrated with grandeur.

The 2025 Shoton Festival is now open for pre-booking. The festival will take place from July 1 to July 5, according to the Tibetan lunar calendar, which corresponds to August 23 to August 27 on the international Gregorian calendar.

Why Visit Lhasa During Shoton Festival?

Lhasa, often referred to as “The Palace of Gods,” is the spiritual heart of Tibet and one of the most revered pilgrimage sites for Buddhists worldwide. The city is home to some of the most iconic religious landmarks, including the Jokhang Temple, Ramoche Temple, and Potala Palace, all dating back to the 7th century. The major monasteries of Sera, Drepung, and Ganden serve as centers of Tibetan Buddhism and provide a glimpse into the teachings and practices that have shaped Tibetan culture for over 3,000 years.

Tibetan culture is deeply intertwined with Buddhism, and the influence of this faith is evident in every aspect of life in Lhasa—from the architecture of its monasteries to the devotion of its people. Lhasa is a place where one can step into another world, where the sacred and the everyday converge in a unique and compelling way.

Join the Shoton Festival Tour

Our 2025 Shoton Festival tour offers a chance to experience this remarkable celebration firsthand, alongside expert guides who will share insights into the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of Tibet. We guarantee low prices, making this an affordable opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty and traditions of Tibet. Check when is the best tome to visit Tibet out of festival events according to your Tibet holiday.

Upcoming Festival Tours (2025-2026):

Don’t miss this unique chance to witness the Shoton Festival in all its splendor. Book your tour now and be part of this extraordinary cultural journey!

 


 

Highlights

  • Explore the historical landmarks of Lhasa
  • Experience the vibrant Summer Festival (Yogurt Festival)
  • Enjoy traditional Tibetan dances like Tashi Sholpa and Lhamo opera
  • Take a scenic day trip to Namtso Lake
  • Immerse yourself in the lifestyle of Tibetan nomads

 


Included

  • Tibet Travel Permits
  • Transportation within Tibet
  • Accommodation (4-star standard)
  • All entrance fees to attractions
  • Pick-up and drop-off at the start and end of the trip
  • Daily breakfasts at hotels
  • Professional Tibetan tour guide
  • All expenses for the tour guide and driver
  • Oxygen tanks for altitude adjustment
  • First aid kit for emergencies

 


 

Not Included

  • Meals ( Lunch & Dinner: Average cost per meal starts from $5 USD)
  • Travel insurance
  • Domestic and international train or flight fares
  • Gratuities for the guide

What To Expect

1

Day 1: Arrive at Lhasa

Upon arrival you will transfer to hotel in center of Lhasa city. The rest of the day at own leisure to acclimatize yourself to the high altitude at 3650m. A welcome dinner at 6:30pm from a local Tibetan restaurant.

Accommodation: Hotel in Lhasa

2

Day 2: Thangka Exhibition in Drepung Monastery and Tibetan Opera in Norbulingka

Meet your guide at 08:00 am in your hotel and drive to Drepung Monastery. On this day, it is about unveiling Thangka in Drepung Monastery. Very early in the morning, monks at Drepung Monastery spread out the giant “Thanka” of Buddha and pray. If you attain the chance to see the Buddha Thangka in a year, it is said that you could accumulate merits from spreading spirit of Buddhism. After exploring Thangka unveiling we will have a luch from a local restaurant near Drepung, and then drive to Norbulingka. Professional and amateur Tibetan opera troupes annually gather in Norbulingka and perform various Tibetan operas. Along with the Tibetan operas and other religious activities. You can also watch yak races, horse races and dancing. (Note: We will get information about one of the horse and yak race from a nearby village to enjoy diversity of festivals. This will only know before few days to the festival)

Accommodation: Hotel in Lhasa

3

Day 3: Visit Potola Palace, Jokhang Temple and Barkhor Street

Meet your guide at 09:00 am in your hotel and go to visit the grand Potala Place, Which is built in the 7th century by 33rd King Songtsan Gampo, which served as the former administrative office of the Tibetan Kingdom until last Langthar Ma. Next to visit is the Jokhang Temple and Barkhor Street. The Jokhang Temple was founded in the 7th century during the King Sogtsan Gampo’s reign.

Accommodation: Hotel in Lhasa

4

Day 4: Visit Ramoche Temple and Sera Monastery

Meet your guide at 09:00 am in your hotel and walk towards Ramoche Temple (less than 1km) which was first built by Han Chinese princess Wencheng in the 7th century. In the afternoon, we will calling a taxi (3km) and visit Sera Monastery see the interesting part of monks Debating at the courtyard. Call a taxi from Sera Monastery for way back to hotel.

Accommodation: Hotel in Lhasa

5

Day 5: Day Trip to Namtso Lake

Guide and driver will meet you in the hotel at 08:00 am and set out for holy Lake Namtso. It is one of the four sacred lakes in Tibet and is highly respected by Tibetans. It covers an area of more than 1900 square kilometers. It is the second largest salt water body in China and the highest salt water lake above the sea level in the world. Then we will drive back to Lhasa early evening and visit Yangpachen Hot-spring on the way back. At arrival, you will be dropped at your hotel at arrival.

Accommodation: Hotel in Lhasa

6

Day 6: Depart from Lhasa

Meet your guide at 09:00 am in your hotel and go to Norbulingka or nearby place to enjoy Tibetan operas. Before 2hours of your departure, the guide and driver will transfer you to Gonggar Airport or train station to connect your next destination. Hope you enjoyed Shoton Festival Tour

Map

Frequently Asked Questions
  • The Shoton Festival, also known as the "Yogurt Festival," is one of Tibet's most celebrated cultural events. It features traditional Tibetan opera performances, the unveiling of a giant Thangka at Drepung Monastery, and festivities at Norbulingka Palace. It usually occurs in August, based on the Tibetan lunar calendar.

  • Key highlights include:The grand Thangka unveiling at Drepung Monastery. Tibetan opera performances at Norbulingka Palace. Local Tibetan food and yogurt sampling. Festive markets and cultural dances.

  • Lhasa is quite busy during the festival, attracting both locals and tourists. Major attractions like Drepung Monastery and Norbulingka Palace can be crowded. It's recommended to book accommodations and permits well in advance.

  • Yes, all international travelers need a Tibet Travel Permit to enter Lhasa, regardless of the time of year. Additional permits may be required if you plan to visit restricted areas outside of Lhasa.

  • Essentials include:Layers of clothing for varying temperatures. Sunblock, sunglasses, and a hat to protect against high-altitude sun exposure. Comfortable walking shoes for exploring. A reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.

Review

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  1. Wonderful Festival in Tibet

    Marinda

    I had a wonderful time during the trip. The guide was informative, friendly and attentive to our entire group! I definitely plan to be a returning customer and recommend this to my friends and family!

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From Original price was: $790.Current price is: $680.

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    From Original price was: $790.Current price is: $680.

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