Monlam Chenmo 16 - 25 Feb

held during the third week of the New Year at the Jokhang Temple in Lhasa. banned by the Chinese in 1966, reinstated in 1986, and has been banned as a public ceremony since 1989.

Instituted by Tsongkapa in 1409, the founder of the Gelukpa sect, Monks from the three great Monasteries of Tibet assemble in Jokhang & pray to Shakyamuni's image as if it were the Living Buddha. Philosophical debates are held among candidates for the doctor of Metaphysics. Pilgrims come from every corner of Tibet and donations are offered to Monks.

BUTTER-LAMP (oil) FESTIVAL: 23 Feb
In order to celebrate Shakyamuni's Victory over non-Buddhist opponents. The Lord of Neu Dzong. A noted patron of Tsongkapa, illuminated numerous Butter-Lamps in 1409, ever since the Festival flourished.

DRIVING OFF EVIL SPIRITS (ghost exorcising festival): 27 Feb
At the Eve of Tibetan New Year, 29th of the Twelfth month, Religious dances are performed in Monasteries for driving off of evil spirits of the past year. At night household traditional means of driving off of Evil Spirits is carried on burning bundles of straws and throwing rubbish on crossroad. "Year-End dumpling "Is Served for Supper.