Litang

The annual horse racing festival has been banned since the 2008 Tibetan riots. However, the nomadic peoples still hold an annual horse racing festival. The location changes. In 2010, it was a 2 hour jeep ride from Litang, off-road through the plains and fording rivers for parts of the journey. Lots of fun! We arrived early and a hospitable Tibetan family invited us into their tent to share a breakfast of yak milk and braided bread. An unmissable authentic Tibetan experience. Contact "Longlife", the owner of the Peace Guesthouse, to arrange the trip.

Hike to the surrounding hills to get a view of the outstretched valley including a visit to the sacred "sky burial" grounds. You will find yourself among the remains of many departed making for a strange and unusual experience. Use utmost respect while visiting the grounds. They are marked by large prayer flags.