Overview
The 2026 Aba Festival, also known as the Monlam Festival (meaning “Great Prayer Festival”), is one of the most significant religious celebrations in Tibetan Buddhism. It was first established in 1409 by Tsongkhapa, the founder of the Gelugpa school. According to legend, it commemorates the time when the Buddha overcame and converted six heretical teachers in the first lunar month.
The festival features two main elements: monastic chanting of scriptures and public religious ceremonies. Visitors can witness large-scale events such as masked cham dances, rituals to dispel evil, and vibrant prayer gatherings. The atmosphere is rich with Tibetan cultural treasures — from colorful costumes and traditional instruments to intricate thangka paintings, butter sculptures, and sacred relics.
The highlight of the festival is the Thangka Unfolding Ceremony, during which a massive embroidered Buddha thangka — normally kept rolled up for preservation — is ceremonially unveiled for pilgrims to worship.
This immersive journey takes you into the heart of the Tibetan Plateau, offering rare access to the spiritual heart of Aba County during this sacred event.
Important Notes
- Due to the high altitude and remote location, this trip requires a reasonable level of physical fitness.
- Weather can be cold in early March — please pack accordingly.
- Final festival dates may be confirmed closer to the time, depending on the lunar calendar and monastery announcements.
- This itinerary is subject to adjustments based on road, weather, or local religious events.
- Respect for local customs and religious practices is essential. Please follow your guide’s instructions, especially at monasteries.
Tour Facts
- Festival Dates: March 1–4, 2026
- Trip Start: February 26, 2026 (from Chengdu)
- Trip End: March 5, 2026 (back in Chengdu)
- Experience Type: Tibetan Religious Festival, Cultural Discovery
- Group Size: Min. 3 – Max. 12 people
- Single Supplement: $254 (applies if occupying a private room)
What’s Included
- ✔ Licensed English-speaking guide
- ✔ Double-occupancy accommodation
- ✔ Private vehicle with experienced driver
- ✔ Airport/train station transfers (arrival & departure)
- ✔ All entrance fees as listed
- ✔ Meals as specified in the itinerary
What’s Not Included
- ✘ International and domestic airfare
- ✘ China visa fees
- ✘ Personal expenses
- ✘ Travel insurance and medical expenses
- ✘ Meals not mentioned in the itinerary
- ✘ Single room supplement (if applicable)
Itinerary
Click each day to view detailed program
Day 1 – Feb 26: Arrival in Chengdu
Meet your guide at Chengdu Airport or train station and transfer to your hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure.
Overnight: Minshan Lhasa Grand Hotel
Meals: Breakfast – Included | Lunch & Dinner – Not Included
Day 2 – Feb 27: Chengdu to Miyaluo Town
We begin our journey by driving to Lixian County, with a stop at the ancient Dujiangyan Irrigation System en route. Continue to Miyaluo Town for the night.
Overnight: 4-Star Hotel
Meals: Breakfast – Included | Lunch & Dinner – Not Included
Day 3 – Feb 28: Miyaluo to Aba County
Drive across winding roads and into expansive highland grasslands dotted with yaks and nomadic herds. As we approach Aba County, the scenery transforms into a vast Tibetan landscape.
Overnight: Paldzom Hotel
Meals: Breakfast – Included | Lunch & Dinner – Not Included
Day 4 – Mar 1: Aba Festival – Thangka Unfolding Ceremony
Rise early to witness the sacred Thangka Unfolding Ceremony at Langmu Si Monastery — the highlight of the entire festival, attracting thousands of pilgrims and monks.
Overnight: Paldzom Hotel
Meals: Breakfast – Included | Lunch & Dinner – Not Included
Day 5 – Mar 2: Aba Festival – Masked Cham Dance
Attend spectacular Cham Dance rituals performed by monks at Kirti Monastery and Gomang Monastery, featuring elaborate masks and symbolic movements.
Overnight: Paldzom Hotel
Meals: Breakfast – Included | Lunch & Dinner – Not Included
Day 6 – Mar 3: Aba Festival – Monlam Rituals
Today you’ll witness Monlam prayer ceremonies, where monks and devotees gather to recite sacred texts and engage in large-scale public blessings.
Overnight: Paldzom Hotel
Meals: Breakfast – Included | Lunch & Dinner – Not Included
Day 7 – Mar 4: Aba County to Chengdu
Depart from Aba County, enjoying a scenic drive (approx. 550 km) back to Chengdu, passing rivers, forests, and Tibetan towns.
Overnight: Minshan Lhasa Grand Hotel
Meals: Breakfast – Included | Lunch & Dinner – Not Included
Day 8 – Mar 5: Departure from Chengdu
After breakfast, transfer to the airport or train station for your departure.
Overnight: Not Included
Meals: Breakfast – Included | Lunch & Dinner – Not Included
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the altitude of Aba County?
Aba County sits at approximately 3,300 meters (10,800 feet) above sea level. Visitors should be aware of possible altitude effects and are encouraged to acclimate gradually.
Do I need a special permit to visit Aba during the festival?
No special permits are required for Aba, but a valid Chinese visa is necessary. We handle all local registrations and monastery entry arrangements as part of the tour.
What kind of clothing should I bring?
March weather is cold, especially in the early morning and evening. Pack layers, thermal undergarments, a down jacket, gloves, and a warm hat. Comfortable walking shoes are also recommended.
Are vegetarian meals available?
Yes, vegetarian meals can be arranged upon request. Please inform us of dietary preferences when booking.
Is this trip suitable for elderly travelers?
Yes, provided they are in generally good health and capable of handling high altitudes. We recommend consulting a doctor before traveling.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.