Tashilhunpo Monastery's Thangka Festival
If you happen to travel to Tibet in June 2026, you won't want to miss a spectacular celebration: the Tashilhunpo Monastery Thangka Festival, running from June 28 to 30. This iconic event draws tens of thousands of pilgrims, artists, and travelers—who flock from across the region and beyond—to witness the grand unveiling of colossal thangka scrolls. These sacred Buddhist paintings, vibrant and intricately crafted with natural pigments embody Tibet's profound spiritual traditions and rich cultural heritage. Standing beneath these towering masterpieces as the morning light illuminates their details, you'll feel part of an ancient ritual that blends devotion, artistry, and faith.
The highlight of the festival lies in its three-day unveiling of thangkas, each representing a different Buddha: the Buddha of the Past (Amitabha), the Buddha of the Present (Sakyamuni), and the Buddha of the Future (Maitreya). These intricate embroidered thangkas, some stretching over 40 meters tall, are meticulously preserved within the monastery and displayed only during this special occasion. The tradition dates back to the 15th century, held with the aim of commemorating the monastery's founding. For Tibetans, viewing these sacred images is believed to purify karma and bring blessings—a powerful experience that resonates deeply even for non-Buddhists. Each day of the festival begins at dawn, as the sound of long horns and rhythmic chants echoes across the monastery courtyards. Monks in traditional robes carry the massive thangka scrolls in a solemn procession to the exhibition wall, where they are carefully unfurled to reveal vibrant depictions of the Buddhas. Beyond the religious ceremonies, the festival offers a window into Tibetan daily life. Pilgrims clad in traditional chubas circle the monastery in a kora, spinning prayer wheels and murmuring mantras.
Make most of your visit to explore the monastery's architectural marvels, such as the Maitreya Chapel, which houses a 26-meter-tall gilded statue of the Future Buddha. The surrounding city of Shigatse—Tibet's second-largest urban center—also offers bustling markets where you can admire handwoven carpets or sample local snacks like yak butter cookies.
Conclusion
There are moments when language fails us completely, especially during this grand celebration. How can mere words convey an impact that leaves the mind so utterly overwhelmed? You'll see once you're there.
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35 Comment ON "Tashilhunpo Monastery's Thangka Festival"
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