Tibetan traditions and customs are inexplicably interwoven with the topography of the place and Tibetan Buddhism. From funerals to weddings, everything has a touch of the teachings of Lord Buddha. On your tour, a plethora of Tibetan local customs will unfold before your eyes, and you will gain deep knowledge about the culture that has been prevailing in the land for years. Customs and traditions mark the authenticity of any place, and Tibet is no exception. While the Himalayas or the Namtso Lake had played a part in introducing the nomadic customs in the districts, Tsampa, wooden bowls and yak butter tea have a part in the daily lives of the people. Festivals like Losar, Shoton Festival, Gyantse and Damxung Horse Racing Festival and many others will act as a mirror for you to understand the mysticism of Tibetan customs.
Ways of Greeting
Your first step in any hotel will be greeted by a member presenting you with a white woven scarf, or commonly known as Hada. This symbolizes loyalty and purity. Hada is also used among the locals when they go to the holy shrine or welcome any elder to their house. The scarf will be raised above your shoulder, and the person placing it will bow down before you while putting it around your neck. Tibetans use ‘la’ at the end of words at the time of greeting someone. Some elders might even stick out their tongue to you! This is not an act of mockery; he is just showing his sincere respect towards you!
Tea and Toast
It is important to know about what you should do when visiting the home of a local. It is customary for a Tibetan to welcome you with barley wine and toast. However, do not just start to gulp down the wine! It is a rule that if you want to show the hosts that you are honored, you must sip the wine three times before starting to drink it. It is a daily part of the Tibetan local customs to entertain the guests with tea. But you cannot take a sip until he presents the drink to you. Talk to our team to get a detailed knowledge of the local customs and savor the moments on your trip.
