Culture
Tibet has richness and the depth of its traditions and cultural heritage. Wisdom, the knowledge about life, compassion, tolerance, peace of mind all contribute in making culture of Tibet. The simply life, the spirituality of minds, give a strong hold to this alpine region which is entirely decorated with its holy charisma. Come experience this magical world of culture.
Culture of Tibet which is completely dedicated to Buddhism is arguably the most particular and convoluted of all that have evolved with time and made their presence felt. Everyone in your group can have a taste of the Tibetan culture during the many live performance shows you can catch anywhere, on streets or open fields. These shows equally fascinate young and elderly people as they are full of colours and energy. For a more professional show, check out the tourism department. Most of the shows, by professional troops are held during festivals and fairs. It’s a good exposure to learn about different culture and traditions that will generate awareness and a sense of tolerance towards other religions.
Custom
Presenting Hada
Present hada is a common practice among the Tibetan people to express their best wishes on many occasions, such as wedding ceremonies, festivals, visiting the elders and the betters, and entertaining guests. The white hada, a long narrow scarf made of silk, embodies purity and good fortune.
Proposing a Toast and Tea
Proposing a Toast and Tea when you come to a Tibetan family, the host will propose a toast, usually barley wine. You should sip three times and then drink up. Entertaining guests with tea is a daily etiquette. The guest must not drink until the host presents the tea to you.
Greetings
Greetings don’t forget to add “LA” after saying hello to the Tibetan people to show respect. Make way to others. Try not to make any sounds while eating and drinking.
Sky Burials
Sky burial is a common form in Tibet. There are many prohibitions. Strangers are not allowed to attend the ceremony. Visitors should respect this custom and keep away from such occasions.
Tibetan Buddhism
Also known as the Lamaism, the Tibetan Buddhism was introduced to Tibet from the mainland and India in the seventh century. The Tibetan Buddhism consists of four major sects, the Ge-lug-pa (Yellow) Sect, the Nying-ma-pa(Red)Sec, the Saturday-kya-pa(Variegated) Sect, and the Ka-gyu-pa(White) Sect.
Pilgrimage
Immediate motivations of pilgrimage are many, but for the ordinary Tibetan it amounts to a means of accumulating merit or good luck. The lay practitioner might go on pilgrimage in the hope of winning a better rebirth, cure an illness, end a spate of bad luck or simply because a vow to take a pilgrimage if a bodhisattva granted a wish. In Tibet there are countless sacred destinations, ranging from lakes and mountains to monasteries and caves that once served as meditation retreats for important yogini. Specific pilgrimages are often prescribed for specific ills; certain mountains for example expiate certain sins. A circumambulation of Mt. Kailash offers the possibility of liberation within three lifetimes, while a circuit of Lake Manasarovar can result in spontaneous Buddha hood.