Overview
The 2025 Shaman Festival is one of the most vibrant and unique cultural experiences of the Tibetan Amdo region. Held annually in Tongren County (Repkong), this festival has been celebrated for over 400 years and is known for its fascinating rituals and joyous atmosphere. Villagers gather at the monastery to pray for a good harvest, peace, and prosperity, all while performing traditional dances and songs.
Among the festival’s highlights are the Kou-Qian (Mouth Piercing), Bei-Qian (Back Piercing), and Kai Shan (Cutting the Forehead with a Knife), which have profound religious and cultural meanings. These rituals are offered to deities in hopes of blessings and spiritual enlightenment.
Tour Highlights
- ✔️ Witness ancient Tibetan shamanic rituals in Tongren (Repkong)
- ✔️ Experience Kou Qian (mouth piercing), Bei Qian (back piercing), and Kai Shan (forehead cutting)
- ✔️ Explore sacred monasteries and vibrant village ceremonies
- ✔️ Immerse yourself in authentic Amdo Tibetan culture
- Kou Qian (Mouth Piercing): To pierce cheeks or tongues with steel pins as an offering of devotion
- Bei Qian (Back Piercing): Ritual back piercings performed in deep trance states
- Kai Shan (Forehead Blood Offering): To cut their foreheads offering blood to the heavens, symbolizing communication with higher realms
Tour Price
$859 per person
Group size: Min 3 – Max 12 people
Single Supplement: USD 287 (applies to those requesting a private room)
What’s Included
- ✅ Licensed English-speaking local guide
- ✅ Accommodation (double occupancy)
- ✅ All entrance fees to listed sites
- ✅ Private transfers including airport/train station pick-up & drop-off
- ✅ Meals as indicated in the itinerary
- ✅ Comfortable private transportation throughout the trip
What’s Not Included
- ❌ International/domestic flights
- ❌ China visa fees
- ❌ Medical or travel insurance
- ❌ Meals not specified in the itinerary
- ❌ Personal expenses
- ❌ Single supplement (unless requested)
Detailed Itinerary (click to view detail)
Day 1 – Arrival in Xining
🛬 Arrival & Hotel Check-in
Upon arrival in Xining, your local guide will meet you at the airport or train station and transfer you to your hotel for check-in.
Overnight: Enraton International Hotel (included)
Meals: Breakfast – ✘ | Lunch – ✘ | Dinner – ✘
Day 2 – Xining to Repkong (Tongren)
🚐 Drive to Tongren via Wutun Village
This morning, we drive to Repkong — the historical name of present-day Tongren County. The journey takes approximately 2.5 hours on well-paved roads. Along the way, we will visit Wutun Village and Wutun Monastery, known for their exquisite Thangka art and vibrant monastic life.
Overnight: Shengyu Tianlun Hotel (included)
Meals: Breakfast – ✔ | Lunch – ✘ | Dinner – ✘
Day 3 – Repkong (Tongren) | Festival Experience
🙏 Longwu Monastery & Festival Observation
Visit Longwu Monastery, the principal monastery in Tongren. Originally built in 1301AD by the Sakyapa master Sangda Rinchen and later converted into a Gelugpa monastery, it houses nine temples and over 400 monks. Spend the day experiencing the religious festival held here, witnessing traditional rituals, music, and dance.
Overnight: Shengyu Tianlun Hotel (included)
Meals: Breakfast – ✔ | Lunch – ✘ | Dinner – ✘
Day 4 – Repkong (Tongren) | Festival Continuation
🎉 Wutu & Sakkyi Village Ceremonies
In the morning, we drive to Wutu Village to witness its unique festival activities. In the afternoon, we visit Sakkyi Village to experience another round of cultural and spiritual ceremonies held by the local community.
Overnight: Shengyu Tianlun Hotel (included)
Meals: Breakfast – ✔ | Lunch – ✘ | Dinner – ✘
Day 5 – Repkong (Tongren) to Xining
🕌 Kumbum Monastery & Dongguan Mosque
Depart early for Kumbum Monastery (Ta’er Monastery), one of the six great Gelugpa monasteries. After exploring this major religious site, we return to Xining to visit Dongguan Mosque — the largest mosque in the region, blending Chinese and Islamic architectural styles.
Overnight: Enraton International Hotel (included)
Meals: Breakfast – ✔ | Lunch – ✘ | Dinner – ✘
Day 6 – Departure from Xining
✈️ Transfer to Airport/Train Station
Your tour concludes today. We will arrange a transfer to the airport or train station for your onward journey.
Overnight: ✘
Meals: Breakfast – ✔ | Lunch – ✘ | Dinner – ✘
Important Notes
- 📅 Festival Dates: July 10–19, 2025
- 📍 Location: Tongren County, about a 2.5-hour drive south of Xining, Qinghai
- 🧘♂️ Custom starting dates are available upon request
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the altitude of Tongren?
Tongren (Repkong) sits at an altitude of around 2,500 meters (8,200 feet) above sea level. Most travelers do not experience serious altitude sickness, but it’s recommended to stay hydrated and avoid strenuous activity on the first day.
Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is family-friendly for children aged 8 and above, especially those interested in culture and history. Please note that some days involve walking and long drives, so it’s ideal for children who can comfortably manage such activity.
Can I customize the tour dates?
Yes, we offer flexible departure dates for private groups. Contact Us in advance to discuss customization that match your travel schedule and interests.
Will I need a travel permit for this area of Tibetan Area?
No. This tour takes place in Qinghai Province, which does not require a special Tibet Travel Permit. Foreign travelers can visit with just a valid Chinese visa.
What kind of accommodations are included?
We use carefully selected 3- to 4-star hotels that offer modern amenities and comfortable beds. In Tongren, accommodations are locally run but clean and well-rated.
Are English-speaking guides provided throughout the tour?
Yes. You will be accompanied by a knowledgeable English-speaking guide throughout the trip. They are trained in cross-cultural communication and well-versed in local history and Tibetan Buddhism.
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