Do You Know About These Unique Tibetan Customs?

As the saying goes, “Every place has its own customs, and every custom reflects a unique culture.”
The Tibetan Plateau, known as the "Roof of the World," is not only home to breathtaking natural scenery, but also rich in mysterious and profound traditions. From sacred mountains and holy lakes to deeply rooted cultural practices, Tibet continues to captivate the hearts of travelers around the world. Let’s explore the customs and traditions of the Tibetan people.

1. Spinning Prayer Wheels

The prayer wheel is one of the most iconic ritual tools in Tibetan Buddhism and a common way to express devotion and seek blessings. In Tibetan regions, it’s not unusual to see devotees turning a prayer wheel with their right hand, counting prayer beads with their left, and chanting mantras softly. Inside each prayer wheel are scrolls of Buddhist scriptures. Tibetans believe that with every spin of the wheel, they accumulate spiritual merit.

Image source: Internet

2. Mani Stones

Mani stones, or “Duo Bang” in Tibetan, refer to piles of stones often found in Tibetan-inhabited areas. These sacred stone mounds can be seen along roadsides, by lakes and rivers, or on mountain paths, serving as a kind of spiritual altar. Each stone is considered a prayer in itself—placing a stone onto a Mani pile is equivalent to reciting a scripture and earning spiritual merit. Pilgrims and travelers often add a stone while circumambulating the pile clockwise.

Each stone is a wish. Please refrain from removing stones from a Mani pile, as doing so is believed to take away someone else’s prayer—something considered extremely inauspicious in Tibetan culture.

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3. Khata (Ceremonial Scarves)

Originally used in religious offerings to deities and as gifts among monks, the Khata has become a widespread expression of respect and goodwill in Tibetan daily life. Tibetans see Khatas as sacred items symbolizing blessings, peace, and happiness. Today, Khatas are used in various settings—ceremonies, festivals, and even as part of daily greetings.

Khatas come in five colors, each representing a different form of blessing:

• White: Symbolizes white clouds, purity, and trust. Commonly used in offerings or when greeting esteemed guests.

• Blue: Represents the sky and expresses prayers for the removal of obstacles and success in spiritual practice.

• Yellow: Symbolizes wisdom and religion; associated with wealth, prosperity, and celebration.

• Green: Represents the earth and is used to pray for health and protection from misfortune.

• Red: Symbolizes guardian deities and is associated with blessings and divine protection.

Image source: Internet

4. Prayer Flags (Lungta)

Also known as “Lungta” or “Mani flags,” these colorful fabric strips printed with Buddhist scriptures are a signature sight on the Tibetan Plateau. Tibetans believe that when the wind passes through these flags, it carries the prayers to the heavens—each flutter is like a silent chant, continuously sending wishes to the divine. As such, prayer flags serve as a spiritual bridge between humans and deities. Wherever prayer flags are hung, the presence of divine blessing is believed to be near, representing wishes for peace, favorable weather, and a happy life.

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5. Circumambulating Stupas

Stupas are significant symbols in Tibetan Buddhism. Typically housing scriptures and adorned with carvings of deities, stupas are objects of deep veneration. Upon encountering a stupa, Tibetan Buddhists often walk around it clockwise, chanting mantras and turning prayer beads to seek blessings and protection. Some may circle a stupa multiple times or leave offerings at its base as a form of devotion.

Image source: Internet

A Journey of a Lifetime

A trip to Tibet is more than just about its natural beauty—
It’s about experiencing a world of ancient rituals and deep spiritual meaning.
Find a new kind of scenery in nature, and discover unique customs through culture.
The wonders of Tibet await your journey.