As one of the key occasions of Tibetan Buddhism, the Tibetan New Year Prayer Service is taking place in 121 monasteries in Gansu Province in Northwest China. The traditional Tibetan festival is a big draw for tourists from around the world.
Dressed in their festive best, pilgrims from nearby regions gathered in the monasteries to pray for peace and prosperity in the coming year, which definitely offers tourists an in-depth look at the Tibetan religion and culture.
A total of 121 Monasteries are scattered around the Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture in Gansu Province. The most famous of them is the Labrang Monastery located in Xiahe county built in 1709.
Large-scale Buddhist ceremonies are held in these monasteries every year, with the New Year Prayer Service being one of the biggest. Lasting about two weeks, the event is comprised of several activities including chanting scriptures, the great Buddha painting display and an exhibition of butter lamps and ancient opera performances.