Tibetan New Year in Shangrila, Diqing

Overview

The Tibetan New Year (Losar) is one of the most important festivals for Tibetan people in Shangri-La (香格里拉), symbolizing renewal and the beginning of new life.

Traditional Customs

Guthuk Night (古突夜)

• Families prepare “Guthuk” dough soup containing symbolic items (chili, wool, stone)
• Items predict family members’ personalities and fortunes

Reunion Dinner

Features traditional foods:

• Tibetan hotpot
• Khapse (卡塞) (Tibetan fried dough)
• Barley wine

Fetching Auspicious Water (打吉祥水)

• Collecting water from rivers/wells at dawn
• Symbolizes good luck and health

Mountain Pilgrimages

• Visiting temples or sacred mountains
• Seeking divine blessings

Modern Celebrations

Social Media Sharing

• Young Tibetans document festivities online
• Promotes cultural understanding

Tourism Experiences

Cultural activities for visitors:

• Nixi Black Pottery (尼西黑陶) making
• Outdoor camping
• Immersive celebrations

Signature Foods

Tibetan Hotpot

Cooked in Nixi Black Pottery (尼西黑陶)

Ingredients:

• Tibetan pork ribs
• Sausages
• Wild mushrooms

Khapse (卡塞)

• Traditional fried dough
• Essential holiday snack

Barley Wine

• Symbolizes prosperity
• Homemade for celebrations

Cultural Significance

The Tibetan New Year:

• Preserves cultural heritage
• Blends tradition with modernity
• Demonstrates Tibetan values
• Celebrates community bonds

This vibrant festival offers both locals and visitors an unforgettable experience of Tibetan culture amidst Shangri-La’s (香格里拉) breathtaking landscapes.