The Complete Guide to the Nagqu Horse Racing Festival 2026
The Nagqu Horse Racing Festival is one of Tibet's most spectacular cultural events, a vibrant celebration of nomadic tradition set against the stunning backdrop of the high plateau. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know—from practical travel documents to what to pack—all delivered with the insider knowledge that makes for a truly unforgettable adventure.

Mark Your Calendar for the 2026 Nagqu Horse Racing Festival
While the official dates for the 2026 Nagqu Horse Racing Festival are typically announced closer to the time by the Tibetan authorities, based on longstanding tradition, you can expect it to be held between August and September 2026. The festival is much more than a single day of racing; it's an extended cultural immersion. The event usually spans 5 to 15 days, filled with a vibrant mix of activities. The opening days often feature pre-events like traditional costume shows and lively folk music and dance performances, building excitement for the main event. The formal race days then thrill tourists with heart-pounding competitions. As soon as the official schedule is released, we will be among the first to publish it!
Essential Tibet Travel Documents Checklist for Nagqu Horse Racing Festival
Here's a breakdown of what you'll need:
Your valid passport, a corresponding Chinese visa, and the crucial Tibet Travel Permit, also known as the Tibet Entry Permit. This permit is mandatory for all foreign nationals to travel to Tibet. The Key for Nagqu: Importantly, Nagqu is classified as a border management area. This means your standard Tibet Travel Permit is not enough. You will need additional Border Pass and Aliens' Travel Permit to visit the region and attend the festival. The golden rule is that these permits cannot be obtained independently; they must be arranged through a registered Tibetan travel agency, like ours. We handle the entire application process for you!

What to Expect from Nagqu's Summer Weather
Attending the festival in August or September means you'll experience Nagqu during the brief but beautiful summer season. However, "summer" on the Tibetan plateau is a unique concept.
Days are often sunny and pleasantly cool, with daytime temperatures potentially rising to around 15 to 20°C. It's the perfect weather for enjoying outdoor festivities. However, the high altitude brings intense sunlight. The flip side is the temperature drop when the sun goes down. Nights can be chilly, with temperatures potentially falling to near freezing.

Conclusion
We take the hassle out of your hands, and our English-speaking guides are knowledgeable about the festival and Tibetan culture, providing context and insight you'd otherwise miss.


35 Comment ON "The Complete Guide to the Nagqu Horse Racing Festival 2026"
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