Damxung Horse Racing Festival: Tibet's Grand Summer Celebration on Horseback
When it comes to experiencing the fiery spirit of Tibetan nomadic culture, horse racing festivals stand out as unmissable highlights. While the Nagqu Horse Racing Festival draws crowds with its grand scale and remote wilderness charm, the Damxung Horse Racing Festival is equally captivating. Nestled on the lush Qiangtang grasslands just a short drive from Lhasa, it blends heart-pounding races, vibrant local gatherings, and sacred rituals into a week-long celebration. For travelers eager to immerse themselves in authentic Tibetan joy without venturing too far from the capital, this festival is a perfect choice.
The Damxung Horse Racing Festival is timed according to the Tibetan calendar, falling on the 10th to 16th day of the seventh lunar month—this usually translates to August in the Gregorian calendar. At its core, it is a celebration of the horse, an animal deeply intertwined with Tibetan history, livelihood, and identity. Historically, this was a time for communities to gather after a season of herding, to pray for good fortune, to trade goods, and to showcase the skills essential to nomadic life. Today, while still deeply rooted in these traditions, it has blossomed into a week-long cultural extravaganza. The festival is a powerful expression of Lhasa culture and Tibetan pride, where the competitive spirit meets joyful camaraderie against the stunning backdrop of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau.
The Main Events and Activities of the Damxung Horse Racing Festival
The main event, of course, is the breathtaking horse racing. But these are not your typical short-track sprints. You'll witness young jockeys, often boys in their teens, demonstrating incredible skill and fearlessness. They race at full gallop, performing daring feats like leaning down from their saddles to pick up khatas from the ground. The connection between rider and horse is palpable, forged through unique training rituals where horses are bathed in icy river waters at night to build endurance and spirit.
Beyond the races, the festival grounds are a whirlwind of activity. Archery competitions showcase remarkable precision, a skill passed down through generations. The air fills with music and rhythmic movement during traditional Tibetan dance performances, where everyone from children to elders may join in. One of the most delightful spectacles is the "Yak Race," where these normally slow, shaggy beasts thunder down the track to the crowd's roaring amusement. Meanwhile, a lively trade fair springs up, offering everything from handmade crafts and jewelry to local snacks, perfect for finding a unique souvenir of your Tibet travel.
Conclusion
The festival takes place on the open grasslands near Damxung County, about a 3-hour drive north from Lhasa at an altitude of around 4,300 meters. This high altitude means acclimatizing properly in Lhasa for a few days beforehand is absolutely essential. To truly embrace the moment, go beyond just watching. Arrive early to soak in the atmosphere as families set up their elaborate tents. Feel free to smile and interact with friendly locals, many of whom are dressed in their finest traditional clothing. Your camera will be constantly active, but always ask for permission before taking close-up portraits. Be prepared for a dynamic, crowded, and authentically local environment.
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35 Comment ON "Damxung Horse Racing Festival: Tibet's Grand Summer Celebration on Horseback"
Asked by Liliana Me** from Macau
plan a 7-8days trip for me and my boyfriend in April
Hi! I would like to plan a 7-8days trip for me and my boyfriend in April (3rd to 10th ideally) to Nepal, Tibet, and, if possible, Bhutan. Do you think it would be doable? Based on what I read, there are some places/things to do to consider: Nepal: Everest Base Camp trek and the Annapurna Circuit, ancient temples, sacred sites like Lumbini, Kathmandu, Tibet: The Potala Palace in Lhasa and the Jokhang Temple. eventually the holy Mount Kailash or the high-altitude plains. Bhutan: Thimphu, Paro, and the famous Tiger’s Nest Monastery. To take part in cultural traditions, yoga, meditation... Of course I am open to any recommendations you could make. For your reference, we are both based in Asia: him, in Bangkok and myself in Macau. Thank you so much for the information you could provide and, if possible, an estimated budget for your offer.
Asked by Ke** from Singapore
Cycling Tour to Mt Kailash
Hi , we are planning a Cycling Trip once Tibet opens for Tourism. The plan is we shall arrive to Kathmandu , travel to the border and enter via Kerung. Can you pls send a day to day Itinerary starting from Kerung - Lake Manasarovar - Darchen - Asthapath. We shall go around Kailash on foot and resume Cycling back to Kerung. We are a Group of 6-8 persons. Thanks Pls send ur reply to Kevin
Asked by Debo** from USA
Please can you tell me the prices and dates for the Tibet Luxury Tour.
Also, could you please provide a detailed itinerary - I want to see how many hours are spent on buses/vehicles. Thank you! Deborah
Asked by S** from HongKong
Tibet Tour from HK
May I know if holding Mainland Travel Permit for HK Residents. is it also need to get the visa permit to Tibet and what is the procedure if need to apply? Thank you
Asked by Na** from USA
Is Kailash Mansarovar Trip open for Indian Passport Holder?
Is it open for Indian Passport Holder?
Asked by A** from Singapore
Enquiry on private tour
We are planning a trip from Hong Kong to Tibet during the 12th to 21st of April. We want a private tour that covers all the scenic places as well as the EBC. Please advise an itinerary along with the cost breakdown. Thanks.
Asked by Na** from Canada
We would like to take the train from Xining to Lhasa
Asked by Gr** from Canada
The "Tibet Entry Permit" should be apply
Asked by Tam** from Singapore
Sightseeing Potala Palace
Asked by Ka** from Singapore
plan to travel to Mount Kailash