Tibet's handcrafts are among the most distinctive in Asia — thangka paintings, hand-knotted carpets, turquoise and coral jewelry, and the famous Tibetan knives. This guide helps you find and buy authentic pieces.
Thangkas are intricate Buddhist scroll paintings on cotton or silk, executed with mineral pigments and gold. Fine thangkas are painted by trained monks or artists and can take months. The best are found in Lhasa's galleries and at the monastery art schools.
Hand-knotted Tibetan carpets — with their bold geometric designs and natural dyes — are prized worldwide. Lhasa has workshops where you can see weavers at work and buy directly. Quality is judged by the knot density and wool.
Tibetan jewelry uses turquoise, coral, amber, and silver in distinctive styles — from prayer beads (mala) to the traditional necklaces and earrings. The markets around the Barkhor are the best hunting ground.
The famous Tibetan knife (with its decorated sheath) and the brass singing bowls, butter lamps, and tea churns are beautiful and functional crafts. They make distinctive souvenirs and gifts.
Prayer wheels, prayer flags, mala beads, and small statues are among the most meaningful purchases. Buy with respect and understanding — these are sacred objects, and a good shop will explain their significance.
The Barkhor market and Lhasa's craft streets are the best places to shop. Bargain politely in markets, but pay fixed prices in reputable galleries. Check the craftsmanship and materials, and ask about the maker. Authentic, handcrafted pieces are worth the investment.