Tibet Festival

A Tibetan cultural festival in the Pisan hills

The Tibet Festival is one of the most evocative cultural events in the province of Pisa. It takes place in Pomaia, a small village in the municipality of Santa Luce, at the renowned Lama Tzong Khapa Institute (ILTK). As one of the most important centers for the study of Tibetan Buddhism in the West, it is affiliated with the FPMT (Foundation for the Preservation of the Mahayana Tradition). For three days, usually in mid-September, the center opens its doors to the public for a journey into the spirituality, art, and traditions of the Land of Snows.

What to expect

The festival is designed for a broad and curious audience, not just those already familiar with Buddhism. The atmosphere is that of a genuine local fair, enriched by a contemplative and international dimension. Recurring features of each edition include:

• Teachings with Tibetan lamas and guided meditation sessions, open to beginners;
• the live creation of a sand mandala by the monks, one of the festival's most fascinating experiences;
• photography exhibitions dedicated to Tibet, the Dalai Lama, and the Himalayan regions;
• film screenings and documentaries, book presentations, and lectures with university professors, doctors, and scholars;
• traditional Tibetan music and dance in the institute's inner courtyard;
• Tibetan cuisine and street food, featuring organic aperitifs and Himalayan specialties;
• workshops, stands, and guided tours of the center and its meditation halls.

The Lama Tzong Khapa Institute

The ILTK in Pomaia is no ordinary place: founded in the 1970s, it is a cornerstone of Tibetan Buddhism in Italy and has hosted numerous world-renowned masters over the years. Nestled in the green hills between Pisa and the coast, it provides the ideal setting for an event focused on cross-cultural dialogue, peace, and compassion. Participation in the festival is free of charge (donations are welcome), reflecting the open and inclusive spirit of the event.

A must-see event in Tuscany

For those visiting Tuscany in September, the Tibet Festival offers an experience far from the typical tourist trail: an immersion into a distant culture without leaving the Pisan hills. Santa Luce and Pomaia, with their quiet, rural landscapes, provide the backdrop for three days that combine reflection, discovery, and conviviality.