Shopping in Tibet offers a unique opportunity to acquire souvenirs reflecting its rich culture and history. This guide highlights some of the best things to buy, providing insights into their significance and where to find them. Whether you’re seeking gifts for loved ones or personal mementos, Tibet offers a diverse range of options.
Tibet, an autonomous region of China, boasts a unique civilization, rich culture, and spiritual heritage reflected in its stunning temples and monasteries. This cultural depth makes Tibetan souvenirs particularly special.
| what to buy in tibet
Singing bowl | what to buy in tibet
The range of Tibetan souvenirs is extensive, encompassing artistic crafts, cultural artifacts, and regional specialties. Consider items such as Thangka paintings, Tibetan jewelry, rugs, daggers, and masks. Food items like butter tea, saffron crocus, and yak jerky also make unique gifts.
Thangka painting | what to buy in tibet
| what to buy in tibet
Barkhor Street in Lhasa offers a vibrant shopping experience, teeming with vendors selling a wide array of goods, including Tibetan ornaments, costumes, Buddha statues, rugs, Thangkas, and imported spices and perfumes.
| what to buy in tibet
Buddha statues. | what to buy in tibet
A visit to Tibet offers more than just majestic landscapes; it’s a journey into a unique and preserved civilization. The souvenirs you choose will reflect this singular cultural experience.
Thangka Paintings
| what to buy in tibet
Thangka paintings are iconic Tibetan scroll paintings, often depicting Buddhist deities, scenes from Buddhist scripture, or historical figures. Traditionally done on cloth, silk, or canvas, they are sometimes embellished with precious materials. They serve both as religious objects and as stunning works of art, suitable for home altars or display.
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These captivating artworks are deeply connected to Tibetan Buddhism. Subjects range from portraits of Buddhas to vibrant depictions of Tibetan life and history. Techniques vary, from hand-painted and embroidered pieces to printed silks.
So, if you buy these Thangkas from Tibet, make sure your home has a dignified place to worship Buddha. | what to buy in tibet
| what to buy in tibet
Intricate, sophisticated painting. | what to buy in tibet
When purchasing Thangka paintings, opt for hand-painted pieces over mass-produced prints for superior quality and authenticity. These often come with protective cases, enhancing their value as gifts.
Green tara thangka | what to buy in tibet
Life of Buddha | what to buy in tibet
Tibetan Buddhist Ritual Objects
Finding Tibetan Buddhist ritual items is relatively easy; local markets offer a wide selection. These markets provide a great opportunity to purchase authentic, culturally significant items such as singing bowls, prayer wheels, and prayer flags (lungta). Prices are generally reasonable.
Singing bowls are a popular item, prized for their unique sound and spiritual significance.
Prayer wheels, a central element of Tibetan Buddhist practice, are readily available. The act of turning the wheel is believed to accumulate merit.
These prayer wheels vary in size and design, offering a range of options for souvenirs or personal use.
Many variations of prayer wheels are available for purchase, allowing the consumer to find an item matching their preferences.
This image showcases the diverse array of ritual items available.
These images highlight the craftsmanship and artistic merit of Tibetan Buddhist ritual objects.
Lungta, vibrant prayer flags, are a common sight and a popular souvenir. Their colorful designs and blessings make them attractive to both locals and visitors.
Tibetan Masks
Hand-crafted Tibetan masks represent a unique blend of religious art, opera, and folk traditions. Their distinctive styles and rustic beauty make them desirable souvenirs or home décor. Three main types exist: religious masks, opera masks, and folk dance masks.
The artistry of Tibetan masks is remarkable. Each mask is unique.
Tibetan masks, locally known as ‘Ba’, are used in opera, dances, and religious ceremonies. Their designs are diverse and expressive, capturing emotions ranging from joy and anger to love and aggression.
- Folk Dance Masks: Used in traditional folk dances.
- Opera Masks: Used in Tibetan opera performances.
- Religious Masks: Used in religious rituals and ceremonies.
The intricate details of these masks are a testament to Tibetan craftsmanship.
The expressive nature of the masks is evident in their vibrant colors and dynamic forms.
Tibetan Jewelry
Tibetan jewelry is crafted from a variety of materials, including silver, gold, copper, turquoise, agate, wood, bamboo, pearls, coral, and yak bone. The intricate designs often feature animal motifs or Sanskrit inscriptions, and are believed to offer blessings and protection.
The variety of styles in Tibetan jewelry is considerable.
The craftsmanship of Tibetan jewelry is often handmade, using traditional techniques passed down through generations. Yak bone is a particularly common material.
The unique designs and spiritual significance of Tibetan jewelry make it a highly sought-after souvenir. Turquoise, red coral, and dzi stones are especially popular. These stones are incorporated into bracelets, necklaces, and other adornments, believed to bring luck, wealth, and peace. The relatively affordable prices make them highly attractive to tourists.
Tibetan Crafts
Tibetan crafts, often made from gold, silver, copper, wood, bamboo, and bone, are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. They represent a valuable option for souvenirs. High-end pieces may incorporate precious stones like onyx, rubies, and sapphires, with intricate Sanskrit carvings.
These diverse crafts showcase the range of artistic skills and traditional techniques found in Tibet.
Tibetan Rugs: A Traveler’s Guide
Tibetan rugs are renowned for their vibrant colors, intricate hand-woven designs, and exceptional durability. Made from Pulu, a hand-woven fabric, these rugs are not only aesthetically pleasing but also incredibly warm. They are commonly used for clothing, footwear, and hats. However, tourists should be aware of potential counterfeits and educate themselves on identifying authentic rugs by examining aspects like knotting techniques and manufacturing processes.
The unique characteristics of Tibetan carpets—their diverse color palettes, distinctive patterns, plush texture, and inherent warmth—make them highly sought-after souvenirs. These handcrafted pieces reflect a deep cultural heritage and are treasured for their beauty and quality.
The beauty and practicality of Pulu rugs, crafted in a multitude of colors, make them a popular choice for both functional use and decorative purposes. Their durability and warmth, combined with their aesthetic appeal, continue to fascinate tourists visiting Tibet.
Traditional Tibetan Costumes
Traditional Tibetan clothing is striking in its uniqueness and exquisite craftsmanship. Often made from materials like wool or lace, these garments represent generations of traditional artistry. Wearing these costumes offers visitors a unique way to engage with and learn about the region’s rich cultural heritage.
The distinct styles and designs of Tibetan clothing provide a window into the diverse cultural practices and traditions of the region. These garments represent more than just clothing; they are a significant aspect of Tibetan identity and cultural expression.
Tibetan Incense: A Fragrant Souvenir
Given Tibet’s deeply rooted Buddhist traditions, incense plays a significant role. It’s a popular souvenir, appreciated both for its fragrance and culturally symbolic significance. The scent is believed to ward off negative energy, repel insects, and purify spaces.
Tibetan incense holds deep religious and cultural meaning. It is used extensively in Buddhist rituals and ceremonies, offering a connection to the spiritual practices of the region. Beyond religious contexts, its pleasant aroma makes it a desirable household item, acting as a natural insect repellent and air freshener.
The multifaceted applications of Tibetan incense—from religious ceremonies to everyday uses like freshening closets and repelling insects—reflect the integral part it plays in Tibetan life and culture. Its fragrance provides a tangible link to the spiritual practices and unique traditions of the region.
Tibetan Daggers: A Blend of Utility and Art
The Tibetan dagger is more than just a weapon; it’s an essential tool and a symbol of cultural identity. For centuries, it has served both practical purposes and as an ornamental piece, reflecting the skill of Tibetan artisans. Its unique design and often elaborate silver sheaths make it a sought-after collector’s item among tourists. However, it’s crucial to understand that these items cannot be taken on airplanes and must be shipped separately. Prices vary depending on the materials and craftsmanship.
The Tibetan dagger’s integration into daily Tibetan life, serving as a tool, a weapon and an adornment, showcases its deep cultural significance. Women often carry more ornamental, subtly designed daggers. This versatile object underscores the practicality and artistry ingrained in Tibetan culture.
Before purchasing an intricately designed Tibetan dagger, remember that airline restrictions prohibit carrying them on board. Shipping is the only method for transporting these items.
Tibetan Medicine: Ancient Remedies
Tibetan medicine (Sowa Rigpa) is a holistic system with a rich history, drawing attention for its effectiveness in treating various ailments and its unique preparation methods. Over millennia, Tibetan herbalists have collected knowledge of plants such as saffron, aweto, and snow lotus, and these plants are popular among tourists. Some visitors even seek treatment from traditional Tibetan doctors during their travels.
Tibetan medicine, also known as Sowa Rigpa, is a time-honored system of natural healing encompassing traditional diagnosis and treatment methods. Still practiced prominently across Tibet, the Himalayas, parts of India and Mongolia, Siberia and even in the West through the global Tibetan diaspora, its distinct practices continue to captivate medical enthusiasts.
The enduring legacy of Tibetan medicine continues to fascinate visitors. Herbs like saffron, aweto, and snow lotus are commonly sought as souvenirs, along with the experience—for some—of receiving treatments from Tibetan medical practitioners.
Tibetan Specialties: A Culinary and Cultural Journey
Tibet offers a range of unique products to take home. These include unique food and culinary experiences such as yak butter tea (made from yak milk), saffron crocus, yak jerky, and the world-renowned Himalayan pink salt.
These distinctive products offer a taste of Tibetan life and culture. They can carry deep cultural significance and represent a unique culinary and cultural experience to bring home from the trip.
Cordyceps sinensis: A Tibetan Treasure
Cordyceps sinensis, also known as caterpillar fungus, is a prized medicinal fungus found in the high-altitude regions of Tibet, above 3,000 meters where few other plants thrive. This rare fungus is rich in amino acids, trace elements, bioactive compounds, and vitamins, contributing to its high medicinal value and correspondingly high price. Its unique properties and limited availability make it a sought-after item, often purchased by tourists as a gift or for personal use.
The harsh Tibetan climate, while inhospitable to most plant life, creates the perfect environment for Cordyceps to flourish. Its rarity, coupled with its purported health benefits, drives its high cost. Therefore, it’s typically purchased by well-to-do tourists.
Beyond Cordyceps, other Tibetan herbs like snow lotus and safflower are also popular souvenirs. These can often be found in larger pharmacies around Lhasa or at Tibetan hospitals.
Where to Shop in Tibet?
Barkhor Street: A Miniature Tibet
No shopping trip to Tibet is complete without visiting Barkhor Street in Lhasa. This street, circling the Jokhang Temple, is a vibrant hub of commerce and culture, often called “mini Tibet.” It’s not only a vital pilgrimage route (kora) for Buddhists but also a showcase of Tibetan arts, crafts, and spiritual life. Countless shops offer a wide array of souvenirs.
Located in the heart of Lhasa, Barkhor Street’s history is intertwined with the Jokhang Temple. Buddhist pilgrims continuously circumambulate the temple and the street, offering prayers and chanting. Beyond its religious significance, Barkhor Street, often described as the “Window of Tibet,” is a shopper’s paradise.
You’ll find a rich variety of souvenirs reflecting Tibetan culture and spirituality. The competitive market ensures moderate prices and good quality. The friendly shopkeepers enhance the shopping experience.
From intricately carved jewelry to unique pearl beads, often inscribed with spells, Barkhor Street offers a treasure trove of unique souvenirs for tourists.
Beyond shopping, Barkhor Street is steeped in history. Historical landmarks including the former Lhasa magistrate’s office and the oldest street in Lhasa are easily accessible from here. Even the origins of the Tibetan alphabet are linked to a small temple on the street.
Yuthok Lu: Another Shopping Destination
Yuthok Lu street, located in Lhasa, Tibet’s capital, is a shopper’s paradise. It boasts numerous shops, supermarkets, and even shopping centers. The Lhasa Department Store, situated at the western end of Yuthok Lu, offers a wide range of products at affordable prices, including canned goods, local handicrafts, Tibetan specialties, and books.
Beyond Yuthok Lu, Lhasa’s city center also features Hongyan supermarket chains for everyday needs. For a blend of affordability, quality, and variety, Yuthok Lu is the ideal starting point for your Tibetan shopping experience.
Shopping Tips for Tibet
Stocking Up in Lhasa
Before venturing to more remote areas, stock up on essentials in Lhasa. Yuthok Lu Road offers various department stores catering to daily needs. The Lhasa Department Store, the largest and most well-known, stocks everyday items like clothing, mugs, canned goods, toiletries, and local handicrafts. Supermarkets are also readily available throughout the city.
Evaluating Jewelry Purchases
While high-quality jewelry is available, be discerning. Exercise caution and carefully examine items before purchase. Unique Tibetan artifacts such as opera masks, costumes, brightly colored rugs, and khatags (ceremonial scarves) make popular souvenirs. The Lhasa Carpet Factory and Lhasa Tent and Banner Factory are good options for rugs and tents, respectively.
Lhasa has three Xinhua bookstores—one on Yuthok Lu, another east of Barkhor Street, and a third on Beijing Zhong Lu Road—selling maps, Tibetan language books, dictionaries, and various publications. A smaller bookshop specializing in Tibetan literature and newspapers is located north of Barkhor Street.
The Art of Bargaining
Negotiate prices with local vendors to secure favorable deals. A 50% reduction from the initial asking price is often achievable, particularly in Barkhor Street, although not universally applicable. Consult your tour guide if you’re unsure about payment methods.
Payment Methods
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While UnionPay cards are widely accepted, carrying Chinese Yuan (RMB) is essential. Cash is king in many smaller establishments and rural areas.
Navigating the Tibetan Shopping Scene: Additional Notes
- Barkhor Street Etiquette: Always walk clockwise around Barkhor Street. Avoid evening visits; it transforms into a bustling market, making navigation challenging. Bargaining is expected. Traditionally, shops offer discounts to the first and last customers of the day.
- Souvenir Shopping: Negotiate prices firmly. For high-value items like jewelry, purchase from reputable, certified stores. Exercise extreme caution with items costing over 10,000 RMB, verifying authenticity independently. Politely refuse unwanted offers. Avoid suspiciously cheap jewelry sold on street stalls.
- Tour-Related Purchases: Be wary of recommendations from tour guides or local vendors; independently assess any suggested purchases.
- Silver and Other Materials: Tibetans sometimes refer to white copper as “silver,” so carefully inspect silver jewelry for purity. Certified stores or department stores offer the best assurance of quality.
- Specialized Purchases: For Tibetan medicine (like Cordyceps), visit Tibetan hospitals near Jokhang Temple. For rugs, consider the Lhasa Carpet Factory or Tash Delek factory. Maps are readily available at the Xinhua bookstore on Yuthok Lu.
This guide offers essential information for a successful shopping experience in Tibet. Enjoy your trip! Learn more about top things to do in Tibet.
Explore Tibet: A Curated Selection of Tours and Activities
Klook offers a diverse range of tours and activities in Tibet, catering to various interests and durations. Here’s a selection highlighting diverse experiences:
Glacier and Mountain Adventures:
- 5-Day Mount Everest Glacier Circuit Winter Tour: Explore the breathtaking Everest Glacier region during winter, experiencing unique landscapes and potentially witnessing stunning snow-covered vistas.
- 5-Day Laigu Glacier Tour (Linzhi): Discover the majestic Laigu Glacier in Linzhi, known for its striking beauty and challenging terrain. This tour focuses specifically on the glacier itself.
- 5-Day Laigu Glacier + Namjagbarwa + Half Ring Winter Tour: A more comprehensive tour incorporating the Laigu Glacier, the towering Namjagbarwa peak, and a portion of a scenic ring route, ideal for those seeking a more extensive exploration.
Lhasa and Cultural Experiences:
- 8-Day Lhasa Holy City Winter Tour: Immerse yourself in the spiritual heart of Tibet, visiting iconic sites and experiencing the culture of Lhasa over an extended period.
- 6-Day Linzhi Ice and Snow Peach Blossom Land Tour: Explore Linzhi’s contrasting landscapes, combining the winter ice and snow with the region’s famed peach blossoms (depending on the season).
- City Walk in Barkhor Street, Lhasa: Discover the bustling Barkhor Street, the heart of Lhasa’s old city, with its vibrant markets and spiritual atmosphere. A great option for a shorter visit.
- 5-Day Sapu Zizhu Monastery Ring Route: Explore the scenic Sapu Zizhu Monastery region, taking in the natural beauty and unique monastic culture.
Longer, Comprehensive Tours:
- 6-Day Glacier to Holy City Tour: Combine the thrill of exploring Linzhi’s glaciers with the cultural immersion of Lhasa, providing a balanced experience.
- 8-Day Mount Everest In-Depth Tour: A comprehensive tour offering an extensive exploration of Mount Everest’s base camp and surrounding regions, maximizing your time in this iconic location.
- 11-Day Shigatse Loop Himalayan Pilgrimage: Journey through the Himalayas, visiting sacred sites and experiencing the spiritual significance of this region, ideal for a more expansive journey.
- 10-Day Peach Blossom Festival Tour (Nyingchi): Celebrate the region’s natural splendor with a trip specifically timed for the annual Peach Blossom Festival (seasonal).
- 7-Day Kathmandu and Lhasa Tour: Combine a cultural experience in Kathmandu, Nepal with a visit to Lhasa, offering a broader exploration of the Himalayan region.
Specialized Tours:
- Tibet Photography Journey: Tailored for photography enthusiasts, this tour focuses on capturing Tibet’s unparalleled landscapes and cultural treasures.
For a more detailed guide to planning your Tibet trip, explore this resource.
