Tibet Butter Lamp Festival Tour
The Tibet Butter Lamp Festival Tour is an excellent choice for experiencing authentic Tibet during the winter. You will follow the footsteps of Tibetan pilgrims, immerse yourself in the scent of incense, witness monastic rituals, and listen to peaceful Buddhist prayers. This festival is widely recognized in Tibet and is one of the most popular winter tour packages available. The Tibetans use yak butter to light butter lamps in monasteries and temples.
During the Tibet Butter Lamp Festival, you will have the opportunity to join the local Tibetans as they gather in large numbers on Bakhor Street and around the Jokhang temple. They come together to commemorate the death anniversary of the renowned Tibetan scholar, Tsongka Pa, who lived in the 15th century. Butter lamps can be seen throughout the temples and local homes. The locals march in long lines, quietly reciting mantras. This event offers a unique and genuine glimpse into Tibetan culture. If you’re seeking to experience the local Tibetan culture within a short timeframe, then this Tibet tour is an unmissable opportunity.
Tour Itinerary of Tibet Butter Lamp Festival
(Nov 30th) DAY 01. ARRIVAL IN LHASA BY AIR / TRAIN.
On the first day of your trip (November 30th), you will arrive in Lhasa by air or train. If you choose to fly, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the snowy Himalayan ranges. Alternatively, if you opt for the train, you’ll embark on a scenic journey across the high plateau, crossing the mighty Thangu la ranges. Upon your arrival at Gongkar Airport or Lhasa Train Station, our Tibetan guide and driver will warmly welcome you and transfer you to your hotel in Lhasa city.
The airport is approximately 70 kilometers away from Lhasa and the journey takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes. If you arrive by train, the distance is only 25 kilometers and the travel time is approximately 30 minutes. Once you reach the hotel, you can check-in and take some time to rest and acclimatize, allowing your body to adjust to the altitude and overcome any jet lag. This will ensure a more comfortable experience throughout your stay. Enjoy an overnight stay in Lhasa.
(Dec 1st) DAY 02. LHASA ESCORTED TOUR
Attractions: Jokhang temple, bustling Bakhor street and Drepung Monastery
On the second day of your trip (December 1st), you will embark on an escorted tour of Lhasa. The main attractions for the day include the Jokhang Temple, bustling Bakhor Street, and Drepung Monastery. As you adjust to the high altitude of the plateau, it’s common to experience a mild headache. To alleviate this, it is recommended to stay hydrated and engage in gentle activities during the initial days.
In the morning, our guide will meet you at the hotel and accompany you on an easy visit to the Jokhang Temple, located in the heart of old Lhasa city. This temple holds great significance as one of the most sacred temples in all of Tibet. It is always bustling with devoted local pilgrims who have been visiting for generations.
Following the temple visit, you will have time to explore Bakhor Street, which serves as both a devotional circuit and a lively central market in Lhasa. While it used to be a renowned local market, it has now transformed into a hub for tourist gift shopping. As you stroll along this street, you will be captivated by the sight of local pilgrims prostrating themselves in front of the temple, particularly during the winter months.
Drepung Monastery, one of the largest monasteries in the world, will be your next stop. It once served as the residence of the Dalai Lama before the construction of the Potala Palace. Although some destruction has occurred at different times, there are still numerous attractions to see. As you wander through the narrow and winding lanes that connect the monks’ living quarters, you will feel as if you’re exploring a typical village.
For the remainder of the day, continue to acclimatize to the altitude and rest to alleviate any lingering jet lag. Enjoy an overnight stay in Lhasa.
(Dec 2nd) DAY 03. DAY TRIP TO GANDEN MONASETRY AND VISIT THE GANDEN RITUAL CEREMONY
Attractions: Ganden monastery and ritual ceremony.
On the third day of your trip (December 2nd), you will embark on a day trip to Ganden Monastery and witness the Ganden ritual ceremony. The main attractions for the day include Ganden Monastery and the ritual ceremony.
We will drive approximately 45 kilometers east of Lhasa to reach Ganden Monastery. This monastery holds great significance as it was the first Gelugpa sect monastery established near Lhasa. It was founded by Tsongkapa, the revered Tibetan religious leader. Today, you will have the opportunity to witness the Ganden Ngacho or Butter Lamp Festival, which commemorates the anniversary of Tsongkapa’s passing. This festival is known for its rich spiritual activities that take place within the monastery.
In the later afternoon, we will drive back to Lhasa. It is highly recommended to participate in the butter lamp ceremony around Bakhor Street. During the evening, you will witness the beauty of hundreds of holy butter lamps illuminating the surroundings of the Jokhang Temple. Additionally, you will observe local pilgrims as they engage in the act of circumambulating around the temple, a deeply spiritual practice.
Enjoy an overnight stay in Lhasa.
(Dec 3rd) DAY 04. LHASA ESCORTED TOUR
Attractions: Potala palace and Sera monastery.
On the fourth day of your trip (December 3rd), you will continue your escorted tour of Lhasa, visiting two significant attractions: the Potala Palace and Sera Monastery.
In the morning, we will begin our visit to the majestic Potala Palace, which stands as the cardinal landmark of Tibet and a true masterpiece of Tibetan architecture. Originally constructed by the 33rd King, Songtsen Gangpo, in the 7th century, it was later rebuilt in the 17th century by the 5th Dalai Lama. Over the years, it has served as the residence of the Dalai Lama and the center of Tibetan governance. While ascending the long steps may be physically challenging, the experience of leaving your footprints within this spiritual palace of compassion, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1994, is truly worthwhile.
To conclude the day on a fascinating note, we will visit the Sera Monastery. Founded in the 15th century by the disciple of Tsongka pa, Jamchen choji Sakya Yeshi, this monastery consists of several monastic colleges that house numerous monks from various regions of Tibet. One of the monastery’s notable events is the daily Buddhist philosophical debates among the monks, which take place in the afternoon, except on Sundays.
For the remainder of the day, continue acclimatizing to the altitude and rest to alleviate any lingering jet lag. Enjoy an overnight stay in Lhasa.
(Dec 4th) DAY 05. LHASA AIRPORT SEND OFF AND FLY OUT OF TIBET
On the fifth day of your trip (December 4th), our guide and driver will accompany you to the airport or train station as it is time for you to bid farewell and depart to your next destination. Before your departure, we kindly request that you take a moment to evaluate our services by either completing a feedback form or sending us an email. Your feedback is greatly appreciated and will help us enhance our services. With that, the trip officially concludes.
Tour Services of Tibet Butter Lamp Festival
Included
- All necessary Tibet travel permits.
- Entrance ticket for all the attractions listed in the itinerary.
- Entrance for your Vehicle and guide for the Everest Natural Reserve.
- Private transportation in Tibet with experienced local Tibetan driver: Ranging from Business van to minibus depending on the group size.
- English speaking Proffesional Tour guide (Local Tibetan).
- Lodging in three star rating hotels: Hotel rooms are based on double occupancy ( with Breakfast).
- Free shuttle Pick-up and send-off services at the beginning/end of the tour.
- A mobile with local SIM card during the tour with your tour guide (it can receive international calls and text messages).
- An Oxygen tank and First Aid box in Car (Size of Oxygen Tank base on group member).
- Two water bottle each day/person.
- Lodging and meals for guide and drivers.
Excluded
- Travel insurance which covers tour cancellation and emergency evacuation (highly recommended to buy from your home country).
- Chinese Visa or Tibet Group Visa ( If coming from Nepal).
- International and domestic flight/train tickets.
- Lunches and Dinners averagely a meal in Tibet (Around USD5 per person).
- Gratuities (Tips) for the guide and driver. ( Highly recommend to give at end of tour).
Tour Map
Conclusion of Tibet Butter Lamp Festival
In conclusion, on the fifth day of your trip (December 4th), our guide and driver will personally escort you to the airport or train station for your departure to your next destination. We extend our heartfelt thanks for choosing our services. Before you leave, we kindly request a few moments of your time to provide feedback on our services. You can do this by either completing a feedback form or sending us an email. Your feedback is invaluable to us as we continuously strive to improve and deliver the highest level of service. With this, we officially conclude the trip. Safe travels and best wishes on your onward journey.
FAQs of Tibet Butter Lamp Festival
How can I book a tour with your company?
To book a tour with us, you can visit our official website and choose the desired tour package. Once you have selected your preferred package, follow the booking instructions provided on the website. Alternatively, you can contact our customer service team via phone or email, and they will guide you through the booking process.
What is the best time of year to visit this destination?
The best time to visit this destination is typically during the spring and autumn seasons, which offer pleasant weather and favorable conditions for sightseeing and outdoor activities. However, it is important to note that the ideal time may vary depending on specific factors such as local climate, festivals, or personal preferences. We recommend checking our website or consulting with our travel experts to determine the most suitable time for your visit.
What types of accommodations are available during the tour?
We provide a range of accommodation options to cater to diverse preferences and budgets. Our tour packages include accommodations such as luxury hotels, boutique guesthouses, or standard hotels, depending on the package you choose. Rest assured that we prioritize the comfort and satisfaction of our guests and select accommodations with reputable standards and convenient locations.
Are meals included in the tour package?
Yes, most of our tour packages include meals as specified in the itinerary. These meals often consist of breakfast, lunch, and dinner, offering a taste of local cuisine as well as international dishes. We take pride in providing delicious and diverse dining experiences during our tours. However, please review the specific details of your chosen package or consult with our team to confirm the meal inclusions.
What is your cancellation policy?
Our cancellation policy may vary depending on the tour package and specific circumstances. We recommend reviewing the terms and conditions outlined during the booking process or contacting our customer service team for detailed information on our cancellation policy. We strive to provide flexible options while considering the various factors that may arise, and our team will assist you in finding the best solution based on your situation.
