Yushu and Litang Horse Racing Festivals

This tour will lead you to the world-renowned horse festivals in Yushu and Litang and is specially designed for people, who want to explore Tibet's traditional provinces Kham and Amdo and want to gain an insight into Tibetan culture, festivals and traditions.

Please click here for a detailed travel itinerary (pdf format)

Do you have a question? Use our online support system! Simply click on the "live chat" icon, fill in the required fields and choose an available operator.

Tour Introduction

The traditional Tibetan Horse-Racing Festival has a long history, and it is the greatest festival among annual traditional festivals of the Tibetans. The difference between horse racing festivals and other religious or folk events is that they encourage whole-family participation amidst breath-taking scenery and include distinct customs and traditions.

Many Tibetans still lead a nomadic life. This is the reason why lots of Tibetans have the tradition of gathering together every year when the flowers blossom (i.e. at the end of July or beginning of August) to see relatives and friends they seldom meet during the year: children go back to visit their parents, lovers meet after a long time of not seeing each other, weddings are held and commodities are bartered or bought for the year ahead.

During this time, various cultural events like singing and dancing performances will be held. The traditional horse racing is a particularly special part of the festival; therefore, people refer to this festival as "The Horse Racing Festival".

Nomadic life is usually rather simple. Only during this festival, herdsmen dress themselves up just like their ancestors. They put on their best clothes to show off their family wealth. Adding to the festival's atmosphere, every family or household will meet friends, drink wine together with them at dusk and participate in religious activities. Do not miss out on this opportunity to join these two fascinating horse racing festivals!