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Basic guide to Tibet, its people
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Known for its natural beauty and spirituality, Tibet is a mysterious place that attracts millions of travelers.
Unspoiled by modern factories and other forms of pollution, the autonomous region amazes visitors with turquoise lakes, deep valleys, emerald green forests, snow-capped mountains, clear skies most of the year, extensive grasslands and a desert.
Geographical features
Tibet is also big, covering one-eighth of China’s land area.
On the northern Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau lie the Kunlun Mountains and a branch of Tanggula Mountain.
In the south there are the Hengduan Mountains. The Gangdise-Nyainqentanglha Mountains bisect Tibet from east to west. Mountains in the region reach an average altitude of more than 4,000 meters and there are 50 peaks reaching over 7,000 meters and five above 8,000 meters.
Tibet also boasts 1,500 lakes, the most in the country, covering a total area of 23,800 square kilometers. Most of the lakes feature clean water.
Due to its topography and terrain, the climate changes considerably. Tropical, subtropical, plateau temperate and plateau sub-frigid climates are all found in Tibet.
Culture and art
Tibetan culture largely revolves around Buddhism while art often has religious overtones.
Painting and sculpting are the most common art forms. Painting helps people strengthen their Buddhist beliefs and ranges from frescoes, Thangkas and even cliff painting.
Tibetan opera plays an important social role. It is a unique form that uses folk dances and songs to tell a story.
Each area of Tibet has distinct styles of clothing. The clothes are influenced by religion and the environment.
The robe worn by men is broad and is normally fastened under the right arm, while those for women are slightly narrower, with or without sleeves.
The robes are often fastened with two cloth belts while shirts are also fastened on the right.
Dancing is an integral part of life. Tibetan people sing and dance for nearly every event: weddings, funerals, gatherings and just for fun. There are many different dances. Each area often has its own distinct style.
The charm of Tibetan songs originates from the way singers produce sound in the throat, by which it echoes in valleys and reaches people in the distance. Loud and sonorous songs are a traditional way of expressing good wishes. Tibetan songs are often beautiful and hypnotic with romantic connotations.
People who have been to Tibet often are impressed by the bold colors. From monasteries to residential buildings and clothing to furniture, the use of color is striking.
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