In August, when the summer is at its height, the annual opera performances of the Shodon (Yogurt Banquet) take place in the Norbu Lingkha (the Summer Palace) in Lhasa. As day breaks over the mountain top and while filmy mists still linger upon the poplar trees, people are ready and waiting outside the brass-studded gate of the Norbulingkha. As the great gate swings open the crowd surges in, women in their sleeveless tunics, men in their long boots, and skipping children, Once the summer palace of the Dalai Lama, the Jewel Park's high surrounding walls used to keep the common folk out and the meadows, ponds, rockeries and pavilions within the park were only thrown open to all during the Shoton when everyone gathered in the park to enjoy performances of Tibetan opera. Time has passed and now Norbu Lingkha has become the "jewel" of the people, open for the enjoyment of everyone.

Day 01 Aug 14;04  Fly Kathmandu to Lhasa
Group shall be met at Gonggar Airport & transfer provided to Lhasa City. O/nt at Htl Shambala.

Day 02 Aug 15;04  Sightseeing Tour
Sightseeing Tour of The Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, Tibetan Medical Centre of Barkhor Bazaar. O/nt at Htl Shambhala.

Day 03 Aug 16;04  Drepung
Visit The Drepung & Sera Monastery. Huge Thangka's are displayed with Tibetan monks praying & Chanting on the occasion of the Shoden Festival. O/nt at Htl Shambala.

Day 04 Aug 17;04  Lhasa
The grand opera at The Norbulingkha Palace begins today. Witness the Opera & The Tibet Museum at The Norbulingkha. O/nt at Htl Shambhala.

Day 05 Aug 18;04  Gyantse
Drive to Gyantse via The Lake Yamdrok-Tso. O/nt at Htl Gyantse.

Day 06 Aug 19;04  Khubhum Stupa
Visit the Khubhum Stupa & Phalkor Monastery at Gyantse before embarking on a leisurely drive to Shigatse. Sightseeing of the Shalu Monastery. O/nt at Htl Shigatse.

Day 07 Aug 20;04  Tashilunpo Monastery
Visit The Tashilunpo Monastery and the free Tibetan Market. Drive to Lhasa via the new highway. O/nt at Htl Shambhala.

Day 08 Aug 21;04  Kathmandu
Transfer to airport for your flight to Kathmandu.

Shodon Festival Departure Dates for year 2004.
· AUG 14. Saturday
· Sep 03. Saturday