Yushu Horse Festival

Deep in the heart of Kham, Tibetans gather every summer to participate in the spectacular Yushu Horse Festival. The festival grounds, surrounded by colorful Tibetan tents, are set in grassy fields where more than ten thousand people come together to celebrate. The main events of the festival showcase impressive horsemanship skills, including archery on horseback and thrilling horse races. Tibetans from various regions showcase their local songs and dances, while women compete in traditional Tibetan fashion shows. Among all the horse festivals in Tibet, the one in Yushu stands out as the largest and most renowned.

Itinerary:

July 21st Day 1: Arrive in Xining [2270m]

Welcome to Xining! Transfer to your hotel and get settled.

July 22nd Day 2: Xining [2270m]

In the morning, visit the largest Tibetan Medical Museum. In the afternoon, visit Gunlung Monastery, one of the oldest monasteries in Qinghai.

July 23rd Day 3: Xining- Kumbum monastery – Qinghai Lake – Chabcha [3200m]

Visit Kumbum, one of the six largest Gelupa sect monasteries in Tibet. It was founded in 1560 by the great master Rinchen Tsondru Gyaltsen to commemorate the birth place of Tsongkhapa, the reformer of Tibetan Buddhism and founder of Gelupa sect. Drive to Qinghai lake, the largest salt lake in China. Afterwards, drive up a hill to take in the sunset over the lake.

July 24th Day 4: Chabcha to Yushu

Drive across the rolling Amdo grasslands and visit a Tibetan nomad tent.

July 25th Day 5: Yushu

Hike or drive up to Jyegu monastery, located on a hill behind the town. Visit Gyana Mani Stone Pile, a huge pile of stones carved with Tibetan Buddhist prayers. There are always good opportunities to take photos of locals pilgrim around the Mani Stone.

July 26th, Day 6: Horse Racing Festival Site

After breakfast, we will embark on a scenic drive to the Batang horse racing ground, the heart of the Yushu Horse Festival. As we arrive, the vibrant atmosphere of excitement and anticipation surrounds us. Witness the thrilling horse races, where skilled riders showcase their equestrian prowess, galloping across the vast grassy plains. The thundering hooves and the cheers of the crowd create an electrifying ambiance.

In addition to the exhilarating horse races, the festival offers a variety of traditional dances representing different regions of Yushu. Immerse yourself in the colorful tapestry of Tibetan culture as you witness these captivating dances performed by talented artists. Adorned in vibrant costumes and accompanied by melodious Tibetan music, the dancers weave tales of the land and its people through graceful movements and expressions.

July 27th Day 7: Horse Racing Festival Site

The festival also features exhilarating yaks racing (not every year), where you can witness the raw power and agility of these magnificent creatures as they charge down the race track, accompanied by cheers and applause. This thrilling spectacle highlights the special bond between the local communities and their cherished livestock, adding an exciting element to the festivities.

Furthermore, immerse yourself in the spiritual aspects of Yushu’s culture by witnessing the mesmerizing ritual dances performed by monks. These sacred dances, deeply rooted in Tibetan Buddhism, carry profound symbolic meanings and serve as a testament to the spiritual traditions and beliefs of the region. Marvel at the precision and grace of the monks as they perform intricate movements, their colorful robes swirling in harmony with chants and prayers.

Interacting with the locals provides a wonderful opportunity to exchange smiles, greetings, and embrace their warm hospitality. Capture the vibrant moments and create lasting memories as you experience the convergence of art, sport, and community spirit at the Yushu Horse Racing Festival.

July 28th Day 8: Yushu – Xining 

We will drive back to Xining and drop you off at your hotel. Tour ends.

Itineraries are subject to change without prior notice.