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Religion and Tradition

Tibet followed a native shamanistic tradition until the introduction of Buddhism in the 8th century from India. Since then, Buddhism is practiced throughout Tibet which is embedded in all aspects of Tibetan life – from daily activities to festivals, culture, art and education. Since its early period, Buddhism has developed and adapted over centuries with influences from native Tibetan traditions as well as the later teachings revealed through Tibetan and Indian masters and practitioners. The type of Buddhism followed in Tibet is known as Mahayana (the Greater vehicle), which focuses on achieving enlightenment through yogic and meditation practices. The teachings of the Buddha compiled in monastic literatures, the qualified teacher; The Lama and the monastic community, together referred to as Three Jewels form the basis for the devotee to achieve the enlightenment, central of which is the practice of compassion and altruism. The role and guidance of the Lama or the qualified teacher is so central to the teachings that people in the west also refer Tibetan Buddhism as Lamaism. The practice entails various form of imagery, that’s why Tibet is so rich in arts and artifacts.

There are various sects within Tibetan Buddhism with various monasteries placing emphasis on different methods of Buddhist teachings. The dominant sect in Tibet is the Gelugpa or ‘yellow hat’ whose leader is the Dalai Lama. The other sects are Nyingma, Kagyu, Shakya and Bonpo (although Bonpos consider Bon a separate native sect). The period of the Chinese Cultural Revolution had a massive impact for Tibet where many monasteries were damaged or torn down by cannon, dynamite and bare hands. The death of Mao Tse Tung in 1976 followed with softened Chinese policy in Tibet and today many monasteries are functioning again and the religion is practiced by the people. As a general rule it is fine to take photographs of the external building but you should seek permission before using a camera inside. Sometimes this is permissible after making an offering (donation). Tibetans wear long gown called Chhuwas or Go and do not show their legs in public. When trekking away from villages it is fine to wear shorts but it is advisable to carry long pants or a skirt while in the villages and towns.

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