This year, Losar started on 7 February and is traditionally celebrated for approximately 15 days. 2008 (or 2135 in the Tibetan lunisolar calendar) is the Year of the Earth Mouse.

Happy Losar from everyone at ATC!

“Losar” is the Tibetan word for ‘new year’. “Lo” roughly translates to ‘year’ or ‘age’ and “sar” translates to ‘new’ or ‘fresh’. “Tashi Delek”, which Tibetans also use to greet each other, has a positive meaning - wishing for goodness and happiness for the other person.

The Tibetan New Year marks the beginning of a period when Tibetans ring in the new year by making extensive offerings and doing special prayers and practices to eliminate obstacles. It is a time for both celebration and renewal.