With the rapid development of western China, sky burial, the scared rite in which vultures feed on the bodies of dead Tibetans, has become a tourist attraction. The places in which the rite is practiced are highlighted on maps and local officials issue permits to watch. Against the wishes of the families, the visitors take photos and film the scene. Made in August 2011, at the height of internal tensions, Vultures of Tibet recounts the current situation of sky burial, using it as a metaphor to underline the greater issues that modern Tibet is faced with.