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The Rich Heritage of Tibetan Clothing: A Unique Fusion of Practicality and Artistry

Tibetan clothing stands as a vivid testament to the region’s unique geography, climate, and cultural traditions. Combining practicality with artistic expression, Tibetan attire has evolved over centuries, shaped by the needs of its wearers and the influences of cultural exchanges. This essay explores the distinct features, types, and regional variations of Tibetan clothing, highlighting its significance in preserving the rich heritage of the Tibetan people.

Dual Purpose: Functionality and Aesthetic Appeal

Since its earliest days, clothing has served two fundamental purposes: protection and self-expression. Tibetan clothing exemplifies this dual role. Designed for the region’s harsh climate, these garments prioritize warmth and durability while embracing vibrant aesthetics that reflect cultural values. The interplay of design, pattern, and material speaks to the ingenuity of Tibetan communities as they adapted their attire to suit their environment and lifestyle.

Types of Tibetan Clothing

Tibetan clothing is diverse and can be broadly categorized into various types based on material, style, and purpose.

  • Robes and Outerwear: These include luxurious brocade robes, sleeveless robes, fur-lined garments, and casual options like short jackets and waistcoats.
  • Accessories: Belts, aprons, hats, boots, jewelry, and hairstyles are essential components of traditional Tibetan attire.
  • Seasonal Variations: Clothing is further classified into summer and winter wear, designed to provide comfort and practicality across changing seasons.

Material and Style-Based Variations

The materials and styles of Tibetan robes are as diverse as the regions from which they originate. For example, brocade and satin robes feature intricate embroidery and vibrant patterns, while woolen robes, known as pulu, offer warmth and durability. Fur-lined robes are particularly favored in the colder nomadic regions, whereas lighter, floral-patterned robes dominate in the southern agricultural areas.

Styles also vary significantly, with notable examples including the wide-shouldered robes of Kongbo and the elaborately adorned floral-collared robes from Southern Tibet. This diversity reflects the ingenuity of Tibetan artisans and the region’s adaptation to varying climates and cultural influences.

Gender and Seasonal Adaptations

Tibetan clothing distinguishes between men’s and women’s attire, each embodying specific cultural and functional features. Men’s clothing typically features large collars, long sleeves, and moderately flared hems, creating a loose but dignified appearance. In contrast, women’s clothing is characterized by long skirts, vibrant colors, and tight-fitting upper garments that emphasize grace and femininity.

Seasonal needs also play a pivotal role in Tibetan attire. Winter garments are crafted to withstand cold winds, incorporating thick materials and fur linings for warmth. In contrast, summer clothing is designed to be lightweight and breathable, ensuring comfort in warmer temperatures.

Regional Styles and Variations

The vast expanse of the Tibetan Plateau has given rise to distinct regional styles of clothing, each with its own unique characteristics:

  • Northern Tibet: Known for heavy fur-lined robes suited to the region’s cold climate.
  • Southern Tibet: Features colorful garments with floral patterns that reflect the area’s agricultural roots.
  • Gongbo Style: Distinguished by wide shoulders and intricate embroidery.
  • Purang Style: A fusion of Tibetan and Himalayan influences.
  • Kham Style: Recognizable for bold patterns and vibrant colors.
  • Monastic Attire: Reflecting simplicity and functionality, aligned with religious practices.

These regional styles are further divided into subcategories based on subtle differences, such as variations in collar design, fabric choice, and decorative elements.

Cultural Significance

Tibetan clothing is more than a practical necessity; it is a powerful expression of identity and culture. Women’s attire, in particular, showcases a greater variety and vibrancy, often serving as a medium for artistic creativity. Through their clothing, Tibetans convey social status, regional identity, and cultural values, making these garments an integral part of their heritage.

A Tapestry of Diversity

With over 200 distinct types of clothing, Tibetan attire is the most diverse among China’s ethnic groups. While common themes unite these garments, regional adaptations and centuries of craftsmanship have resulted in a kaleidoscope of styles. Each piece of Tibetan clothing tells a story of resilience, innovation, and cultural pride, reflecting the harmonious relationship between the people and their environment.

Tibetan clothing is a remarkable blend of practicality and artistry, rooted in the traditions of its people and shaped by the demands of its environment. From fur-lined robes in the northern plateau to floral-patterned garments in the south, Tibetan attire is a vibrant expression of cultural heritage and identity. Exploring these garments offers a deeper understanding of Tibet’s rich history and the creativity of its people, ensuring that this unique tradition continues to inspire and endure.

Traditional Tibetan Clothing in Lhasa: A Blend of Elegance and Heritage

Lhasa, the political, cultural, and spiritual heart of Tibet, holds a prominent place in Tibetan history. As a hub of trade and culture, it has long interacted with neighboring regions and ethnic groups. Tibetan clothing in Lhasa reflects this rich heritage, combining practicality with elegance. According to Chinese Tibetan Costumes, Lhasa’s traditional attire is renowned for its understated beauty, harmonious design, and emphasis on comfort.

Traditional Men’s Clothing in Lhasa

Tibetan men in Lhasa traditionally wear robes (Chupa) crafted from woolen fabrics such as pulu and other durable materials. These robes typically feature deep, muted colors like navy, black, and gray. The robe’s high-necked, long-sleeved shirts, often made of silk or cotton, are commonly white or blue. A silk sash secures the robe at the waist, with the hem falling gracefully to the knees. Accessories like intricately designed short knives add a touch of craftsmanship.

Historically, Lhasa men adorned themselves with jewelry, wearing gold or silver earrings on the left ear and small turquoise on the right. Rings made of jade or ivory were also popular. Seasonal hats distinguished their attire: woolen hats in summer and gold-embellished fur caps in winter. Footwear included pulu boots and leather shoes, though modern men now favor sneakers and leather shoes.

Women’s Tibetan Attire: A Celebration of Color and Grace

Lhasa women’s clothing is equally distinctive and vibrant. In summer, women don sleeveless robes made from pulu, wool, or silk. These robes, paired with colorful long-sleeved blouses, exude charm and elegance. The blouse sleeves extend beyond the hands, with flowing cuffs adding an ethereal grace to every movement. Silk sashes cinch the robes at the waist, while hemlines often reach the ankles or graze the ground. Aprons (Pangden), decorated with gold or silver threads and intricate patterns of Gesang flowers, add an extra layer of sophistication.

Winter attire includes long-sleeved robes layered with woolen or quilted jackets for added warmth. Hairstyles also hold cultural significance: unmarried women wear a single braid, while married women style their hair into two braids adorned with colorful silk threads. Headwear, such as gold-embellished hats or festive coral and turquoise headpieces, completes their look. Women also wear simple yet elegant ornaments like gawu amulets, bracelets, and necklaces.

Modern Tibetan fashion in Lhasa has embraced contemporary styles while retaining its cultural essence. Today’s Tibetan women experiment with bubble sleeves, cheongsam-inspired cuts, and diverse fabrics, creating vibrant and youthful attire.

Clothing in Lhasa’s Rural Communities

Tibetan clothing in Lhasa’s rural areas reflects simplicity and functionality. Men often wear white pulu robes with copper buttons at the right armpit and green ribbons hanging from the waist. Shorter outfits featuring black pulu jackets, paired with gold-embellished hats and pulu boots, convey a rugged elegance.

Rural women favor black sleeveless robes paired with red or blue shirts. Rainbow-striped aprons and colorful headscarves enhance their natural beauty. Married women often weave their hair into intricate braids wrapped around their heads, combining practicality with charm. Jewelry remains minimal, favoring modest earrings, necklaces, and bracelets.

Unique Styles in Nyemo County

Women in Nyemo County stand out for their distinctive fashion. They layer brightly colored shirts beneath their robes, with collars folded outward to create a striking rainbow effect. This playful yet elegant style reflects their creativity and pride in their heritage.

Tibetan clothing in Lhasa is a remarkable fusion of tradition, aesthetics, and cultural pride. Whether it’s the vibrant urban attire or the simple rural garments, each piece tells a story of Tibetan identity. By preserving these traditional styles while embracing modern trends, the people of Lhasa continue to celebrate their rich cultural tapestry.

Traditional Tibetan Clothing of Shigatse: A Unique Blend of Style and Functionality

Shigatse meaning “the best manor” in Tibetan, is located in southern Tibet on the northern slopes of the Himalayas. With altitudes ranging from 3,800 to 6,646 meters, Shigatse experiences a semi-arid plateau monsoon climate characterized by distinct wet and dry seasons. Its traditional Tibetan clothing reflects the region’s climatic and cultural nuances, offering practicality, elegance, and freedom of movement.


Men’s Traditional Attire: Elegance and Comfort

Men in Shigatse often favor white woolen Tibetan robes. These robes are lined with blue satin and feature distinctive blue silk ribbons sewn along the robe’s sides, functioning as closures instead of buttons. Beneath the robe, black woolen short shirts (known as “Duitong”) and trousers are commonly worn.

  • Short Shirts and Trousers: Short shirts are lined with blue satin, and their collars and lapels are intricately edged with silver or gold embroidery.
  • Waist Accessories: The waist is wrapped with colorful patterned belts (“Gongjie”) and further secured with woven woolen sashes.

This combination of materials ensures comfort in the variable high-altitude climate while maintaining a dignified appearance.


Women’s Traditional Attire: Vibrant and Decorative

Women in Shigatse often wear the classic sleeveless Tibetan robe, “Quba Pumei,” complemented by colorful aprons (“Bangdian”) and decorative shawls draped across the back. Special occasions call for ornate jewelry and accessories:

  • Waist and Aprons: Festive aprons often feature intricate designs, while large silver waist buckles (“Gedi”)—especially in Tingri—serve both functional and ornamental purposes.
  • Colorful Layers: Women in rural areas layer their clothing with vibrant shirts and sashes in shades of red, green, and light blue, adding visual splendor to their traditional attire.

Rural Shigatse Clothing: Practical and Regional Adaptations

In the agricultural regions, woolen fabric (“Pulu”) dominates as the primary material for both men’s and women’s robes.

  • Men’s Robes: Typically black or white, these robes feature wide lapels, smaller right-side flaps, and buttons under the right arm. Additional details include colorful embellishments around collars, cuffs, and hems.
  • Women’s Robes: Made from wool or heavy fabric, these robes are paired with aprons and sashes, while the undershirts display vibrant patterns.

During summer or while working, men often wear only the left sleeve, with the right sleeve draped over the shoulder or tied around the waist for convenience.


Pastoral Region Attire: Embracing the Elements

In the pastoral zones, leather robes take precedence due to their durability and warmth:

  • Men’s Leather Robes: Trimmed with black corduroy or velvet, these garments are practical for daily wear.
  • Women’s Leather Robes: Often adorned with colorful wool patterns and paired with aprons, these robes blend utility with beauty.

Distinctive Features of Tibetan Collars

Tibetan robes from Shigatse commonly feature two types of collars:

  1. Crossover Collar: A seamless design where the collar merges with the robe’s lapels, creating an elegant crossover look at the chest.
  2. Straight Collar: Modern adaptations include straight collars that wrap from the back of the neck to the front, gaining popularity for their simplicity and style.

The traditional clothing of Shigatse is a testament to the region’s cultural richness and adaptability to its environment. From the practical leather robes of herders to the vibrant ceremonial attire of women, Shigatse’s Tibetan garments combine elegance, functionality, and a deep connection to heritage. Today, these styles continue to inspire modern interpretations, ensuring the legacy of Shigatse’s traditional clothing endures.

Traditional Tibetan Clothing in Shannan: Elegance and Practicality

Shannan (Lho-kha), known for its temperate and humid valley climate, inspires a distinctive style of Tibetan clothing that is both practical and graceful. The attire here reflects the region’s environment, with lighter garments suited for comfort and mobility.


Men’s Clothing: Classic Simplicity

Men in Shannan often wear layered robes called “Chupa” (phyu-pa), ideal for riding across the Tibetan plateau. This versatile garment is functional and adaptable:

  • Material and Design: Made from wool, tweed, or sometimes satin, the Chupa features a large left lapel and a smaller right one, secured under the right armpit with a button or tied with colorful fabric belts.
  • Practical Use: The Chupa serves as clothing during the day and can double as a blanket at night. Sleeves can be adjusted depending on the temperature, either tied around the waist or draped over the back.

During festivals like the Harvest Festival or horse races, men wear elaborately decorated robes called “Dra” (textured leather robes) or “Chupa Gyalo” (flower-collared robes), showcasing bold patterns and refined craftsmanship.


Women’s Clothing: Vibrant and Graceful

Women’s robes in Shannan, also referred to as “Chupa,” are slimmer and often sleeveless in summer and autumn. They are paired with colorful aprons (“Bangdian”) and sashes to create an elegant silhouette.

  • Materials and Colors: Wool, tweed, and brightly colored fabrics are commonly used. Underneath, women wear floral or solid-colored shirts with folded collars.
  • Seasonal Variations: In winter, women’s Chupas include sleeves, while sleeveless versions dominate warmer months.

The robes are often adorned with intricate patterns, with wide cuffs and lapels trimmed in satin or brocade, adding to their aesthetic appeal.


Unique Features of Shannan Tibetan Clothing

  1. Waist Belts and Aprons: Both men and women tie sashes made of red, green, or light blue satin, often paired with aprons to complete their outfits.
  2. Long Sleeves for Dance: Women’s shirts feature sleeves that extend 40 cm beyond the arm length, which are rolled up during daily activities and released during dances to create a flowing visual effect.
  3. Knee-Length Vests (Backsha): Unique to Shannan, these sleeveless vests are made from black wool or patterned tweed, with designs varying by county. For instance:
    • Qiongjie County: Uses cross-patterned tweed.
    • Longzi County: Features rows of white wool knots on black wool fabric.

Special Attire for the Elderly

Elderly residents wear a distinctive robe called “Gyagui” (brgya-gos), often gifted on their 80th birthday. These robes are embellished with embroidered sun, moon, and swastika patterns, symbolizing blessings for longevity. Originally bestowed by the Tibetan local government to centenarians, the tradition now extends to honoring elders within families and communities.


The traditional clothing of Shannan represents a harmonious blend of functionality and cultural aesthetics. Whether it’s the practical Chupa, the vibrant women’s attire, or the symbolic elderly robes, each garment reflects the region’s heritage, creativity, and respect for tradition. This enduring style not only serves practical purposes but also celebrates the rich cultural tapestry of Tibetan life.

Traditional Kongpo Clothing: The “Guxiu” Robe

Kongpo, located in Nyingchi and spanning areas such as Bayi District, Milin City, and Gongbo’gyamda County, lies between the southern Tibetan river valleys and the Hengduan Mountains. This region, covered with dense forests and abundant rainfall, inspired the creation of the “Guxiu” (mgo-shubs), a sleeveless robe designed to meet the needs of its environment.


Practical and Functional Design

The Guxiu is uniquely tailored for practicality:

  • Structure: A sleeveless robe with a round opening at the top for the head. The waist is secured with a belt, and the arms extend freely through the sides.
  • Material: Commonly made from black or brown wool (pulu), but also crafted from animal hides like sheep, yak, bear, wolf, or monkey fur for added durability.
  • Utility: Its design, with broad shoulders and no sleeves, allows for ease of movement, particularly for tasks like logging or carrying wood. The thick material also provides protection against light rain.

A Garment with Historical Significance

The Guxiu has been a staple in Kongpo for over 700 years and is deeply rooted in the region’s history and culture.

Legend of the Guxiu

The origin of the Guxiu is tied to Kongpo’s legendary king, Gyapbo (rgyal-po), a figure celebrated for his bravery and wisdom.

  • The Battle: Over 700 years ago, Kongpo faced an invasion. King Gyapbo led his people into battle to defend their homeland. Despite their valor, the Kongpo forces were overwhelmed, and the king was captured and brutally dismembered by the enemy.
  • The Tribute: Devastated by his death, the Kongpo people retrieved his remains. To honor their king, elderly women sewed a sleeveless garment for him, symbolizing his lost arms. This garment became the Guxiu, a memorial to his sacrifice.

Distinctive Style

The Guxiu embodies the rustic elegance of Kongpo attire:

  • Aesthetic Details: The robe’s hem, edges, and slits are often adorned with gold and silver trims, brocade patterns, or fine fur like otter or monkey fur.
  • Structure: Its knee-length, skirt-like appearance and vintage embellishments create a unique and timeless look.
  • Special Material: Skins of Himalayan yaks with reddish hues, known as “Jia Guona,” are prized for making premium Guxiu robes.

Cultural Legacy

The Guxiu is not just a garment but a symbol of resilience and reverence in Kongpo culture. Its practical design continues to serve the needs of the forested region, while its historical roots connect the people to their heroic past. The Guxiu is a testament to how clothing in Tibet transcends functionality to become a rich expression of identity and heritage.

Purang Traditional Attire of Ngari

Located in the southwestern part of Tibet, Purang County (spu-hreng-rdzong) lies in the Himalayan valleys near the tri-junction of China, Nepal, and India. Covering an area of 12,497 square kilometers, it is a semi-agricultural, semi-pastoral region known for its stunning landscapes and unique cultural heritage.


Sheepskin Robes: Elegance in Simplicity

Sheepskin robes dominate Purang’s traditional attire, celebrated for their meticulous craftsmanship and sophisticated design.

  • Materials and Design: The robes are primarily made of woolen fabric, with otter fur trims on the collar, cuffs, and hem, often adorned with satin overlays.
  • A Distinctive Feature: These robes represent a blend of practicality and aesthetic refinement, making them a standout in Tibetan fashion.

The Iconic “Peacock” Attire for Women

The most remarkable and unique feature of Purang’s clothing culture is the “Peacock” attire for women, symbolizing beauty and good fortune inspired by the Purang Peacock River, whose source resembles the shape of a peacock.

Key Features of the Peacock Attire

  1. Headpiece (Zhu Crown):
    • Crescent-shaped and adorned with a veil of silver chains and red coral beads that partially cover the face, adding an air of mystery and elegance.
  2. Shoulder Ornament:
    • Crescent-shaped jewelry embellished with turquoise and pearls hangs gracefully on the right shoulder.
  3. Neck and Chest Adornments:
    • Layers of necklaces crafted from coral, turquoise, amber, and other precious stones, creating a luxurious and striking appearance.
  4. Hat (Tingma):
    • A cylindrical hat made from dark blue wool, with an opening at the base for braids to flow through, symbolizing the peacock’s crest.
  5. Earrings:
    • Long earrings, about 15 cm, strung with coral and pearls, mimicking the peacock’s head crest.
  6. Apron (Gaiba):
    • Made of pristine white goat hide, with colorful wool patterns representing the peacock’s back and wings. The apron’s base features three slits, evoking the peacock’s tail feathers. Some aprons are further embellished with vibrant silk, adding an unparalleled charm.

Cultural and Symbolic Significance

Purang women’s attire is renowned for its intricate design and the sheer opulence of its ornaments, many of which are heirlooms passed down through generations. These precious items are often added to over time, creating elaborate collections.

  • Religious Offerings:
    Wealthy families sometimes donate their jewelry to monasteries or use it to adorn stupas, seeking divine blessings and showcasing their affluence.

The Peacock attire embodies the harmony of art, tradition, and reverence, representing the cultural essence of Purang and its connection to beauty and prosperity.

Traditional Clothing of Nomads in Northern Tibet

The nomadic Tibetan population of northern Tibet resides in vast natural grasslands, where practicality and adaptability define their clothing. The harsh climate demands attire that provides effective warmth while allowing for ventilation. The sheepskin robe of Northern Tibetan nomads embodies these functional needs while reflecting their unique lifestyle and culture.


Everyday Sheepskin Robes

Men’s Robes

  • Material: Made from sheepskin or lambskin.
  • Design:
    • Edged with black velvet, corduroy, or woolen fabric at the collar, cuffs, and hem, with widths of 10–15 cm.
    • Worn over woolen inner tops and trousers made from sheepskin or wolf fur.
    • Elderly men often wear leather knee pads for added protection.

Women’s Robes

  • Material and Ornamentation:
    • Sheepskin robes adorned with colorful Bangdian (striped aprons), typically 5 cm wide.
    • Decorative patterns in red, blue, and green, ranging from 3 to 10 stripes.
    • Sleeves embellished with similar ornamental designs.

Unique Structural Features

  • Loose and Practical Design:
    • The robes are large and roomy, doubling as bedding at night.
    • Wide sleeves allow freedom of movement.
    • During the day, as temperatures rise, one sleeve can be draped off to regulate body heat, creating a distinct and rugged style associated with nomads’ bold and free-spirited demeanor.
  • Accessories:
    • Woolen belts adorned with decorative items like flint, knives, snuff bottles, and silver coins.
    • These embellishments are a hallmark of Northern Tibetan nomadic attire.

Festive Attire

Northern Tibetan nomads place great emphasis on festive clothing, opting for high-quality fabrics and elaborate designs.

Men’s Formal Wear

  • Made from lambskin lining with stone sheep leather exteriors.
  • Trimmed with black velvet and enhanced with otter fur edges.
  • Back panels are embroidered with auspicious patterns, exemplifying elegance and craftsmanship.

Women’s Festive Wear

  • Robe Materials: Often crafted from vibrant Bangdian stripes, sourced from agricultural regions or handwoven locally.
  • Craftsmanship: Thin wool textiles with intricate cut-and-paste embroidery.
  • Accessories: Women adorn themselves with colorful silk sashes, creating a strikingly beautiful appearance during celebrations.

Summer Attire

  • Men:
    • Wear white cotton or silk shirts and trousers.
    • Long robes made of white or black woolen fabric or cotton are common.
    • Colors include black, deep blue, green, earthy yellow, and brown.
  • Women:
    • Favor black or dark woolen robes, with or without sleeves, over bright inner tops.
    • A red velvet underskirt is worn by those with more resources.

Cultural Significance of Bangdian (Striped Aprons)

  • Bangdian is a staple for nomadic women, often longer than those in Southern Tibet.
  • While most Bangdian aprons are sourced from agricultural regions, some are locally woven using thin wool. These aprons are masterpieces of fine craftsmanship and hold artistic and collectible value.

During festivals, the colorful silk sashes and carefully crafted garments highlight the vibrant culture and traditions of Northern Tibetan nomads, showcasing their resilience and deep connection to the land.

Kham Region Tibetan Clothing

Kham, located in eastern Tibet and bordering Qinghai, Sichuan, and Yunnan, features a unique clothing style reflecting the region’s cultural richness and practicality. Administered under Chamdo Prefecture, Kham spans approximately 110,000 square kilometers, with a population exceeding 500,000. The area’s traditional attire, known for its loose and robust designs, aligns well with the bold and hospitable Kham personality, exuding a sense of grandeur and elegance.

General Characteristics

Kham clothing is designed for practicality and style. The loose robes are versatile—providing warmth at night and serving as daywear. Men’s and women’s garments differ subtly in cut and decorative details. The clothing incorporates luxurious materials such as gold, silver, coral, turquoise, and animal pelts, with some outfits valued as high as 100,000 yuan.

Seasonal and Practical Designs

  • Spring/Summer Robes: Made from fine wool, corduroy, or brocade.
  • Winter Robes: Lined with lambskin or sheepskin, with fur trims made from leopard or otter fur for insulation and luxury.

The practical design allows wearers to adjust their outfits by tying sleeves around the waist, ensuring comfort in changing weather conditions.

Men’s and Women’s Styles

  • Men’s Robes: Often worn knee-length, with the right lapel covering the left, secured by a sash.
  • Women’s Robes: Typically longer, reaching the feet for nobles and city dwellers, or ankle-length for practicality in rural areas. The robes are adorned with colorful trims and fur.

Both genders wear undergarments like shirts or vests, made of silk or fine fabrics, adding layers of warmth and sophistication.

Accessories

Men and women accessorize their outfits with sashes, knives, flint pouches, and jewelry, showcasing their wealth and social status. Women’s colorful sashes, often handmade, add vibrancy to their attire.

Historical Influence of Fur Trim

The tradition of fur-trimmed garments traces back to ancient rewards given to warriors. Originally a symbol of bravery and rank, these trims evolved into decorative elements, signifying affluence and status in modern times.

Festive Attire

During festivals, both men and women wear elaborately adorned robes with intricate embroidery, vibrant colors, and lavish materials. Women’s jewelry includes coral, turquoise, and pearls, while men opt for ornate belts and dagger holders.

Regional Variations

  • Shirts and Blouses: Women’s blouses, often silk or Indian cotton, exclude orange and yellow hues, reserved for clergy and nobles.
  • Vests and Jackets: Men and women wear fur-lined vests, with designs varying between regions.

Kham’s distinctive clothing embodies the resilience and aesthetic values of its people, blending practicality with striking beauty. It is a testament to the region’s rich heritage and cultural ingenuity.

About the author

The Tibetan Travel website's creator, hailing from Lhasa, is a cultural enthusiast. They promote responsible tourism, connecting the world to Tibet's beauty and heritage. Awards recognize their contribution.

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