Lhasa’s Sho Dun Festival, alternately spelled “Shoton“, is one of the most popular annual celebrations in the Tibetan region. Dating back to the 11th century, the festival was originally a “yogurt banquet” (“sho” meaning” yogurt” and “dun” meaning “banquet”) where locals would bring yogurt offerings to the monks. Over time the festival grew to include opera singing and dancing performances, a now central element of the annual festivities.
Over time the festival grew to include
At an elevation of more than 3,614 meters (11,860 feet), Lhasa is one of the world’s highest cities. As the capital of Tibet, this vibrant and fascinating place has been the center of Tibet’s political, religious, economic and cultural activities ever since the Fifth Dalai Lama moved the capital here in 1642. While home to some of Tibet’s richest cultural wonders, Lhasa is also a modernizing metropolis. The old town is filled with devout pilgrims traveling Barkhor Street, the town prayer circuit that wraps around Jokhang Monastery. In Lhasa, Buddhism is not an abstract religious belief. For many, it is a spiritual way of life.
Welcome Dinner in Lhasa
Join a Welcome Dinner with your fellow travellers. During dinner, you’ll get to know each other, your WildChina guide, and learn more about the journey ahead. Your guide will give a short lecture on the history of Tibet and introduce local cultures and customs that we’ll see often throughout the trip.
What we love
- Marveling at the giant Sho Dun Thangka on display at Drepung Monastery
- Attending a traditional Tibetan opera performance
- Watching lamas debate Buddhist philosophy at Sera Monastery
