Souvenirs & What to Buy in Nagqu, Tibet, China

1. Thangka Paintings

Delicate Tibetan Buddhist paintings on canvas, showcasing various deities and spiritual symbols.

Authenticity: Ensure the Thangka is from a reputable source and made by skilled local artists.
Quality: Look for intricate details, vibrant colors, and high-quality materials.
Symbolism: Understand the symbols and meanings depicted in the painting to appreciate its cultural significance.

Handmade bowls played by gently striking their sides with a mallet, producing a resonating sound used for meditation.

Quality of Sound: Listen carefully to the bowl's tone and sustain for a harmonious vibration.
Craftsmanship: Choose bowls made from traditional methods using metals like brass, copper, or bronze.
Symbolism: Learn about the spiritual significance of singing bowls in Tibetan culture.

Warm, colorful coats with inner lining and collar, popular traditional attire for both men and women.

Material Quality: Look for thicker fabric made from wool or cashmere for maximum warmth.
Design: Select a design that represents Nagqu's unique style and cultural heritage.
Fit: Ensure the Chubas fit well and provide adequate protection against cold temperatures.

Hand-woven items made from yak wool, such as blankets, scarves, and socks.

Warmth: Yak wool is incredibly warm and resistant to water, perfect for Nagqu's cold climate.
Quality: Look for soft, dense yarn for a comfortable and durable product.
Design: Choose eye-catching designs that incorporate traditional Tibetan patterns.

Beautiful, intricate jewelry made from silver and turquoise stones, often in the shape of Tibetan symbols.

Authenticity: Ensure the jewelry is made with real silver and high-quality stones.
Design: Select pieces that combine traditional designs with modern styles.
Symbolism: Learn about the meanings behind the symbols used in the jewelry design.

Hand-woven carpets featuring intricate patterns and bright colors, made using traditional Tibetan techniques.

Quality: Look for carpets with tight weaves and high-quality materials.
Design: Choose a design that represents Nagqu's unique style and cultural heritage.
Size: Consider the size of the carpet based on your space constraints.

Aromatic incense sticks infused with traditional Tibetan fragrances like sandalwood, frankincense, and myrrh.

Quality of Fragrance: Choose incense with strong, long-lasting aromas.
Packaging: Look for sturdy packaging to prevent breakage during travel.
Symbolism: Learn about the spiritual significance of incense in Tibetan culture.

Incredible sculptures made from yak butter, showcasing intricate designs and religious motifs.

Quality: Look for detailed, well-preserved sculptures.
Packaging: Choose a suitable container to preserve the butter sculpture during travel.
Symbolism: Learn about the meanings behind the symbols used in the butter sculpture design.

Traditional tea sets made from clay or wood, featuring unique shapes and colors.

Material Quality: Look for durable materials that can withstand daily use.
Design: Select a set that represents Nagqu's unique style and cultural heritage.
Set Completeness: Ensure the set includes all necessary components, such as cups, pot, and strainer.

Firm, salty cheese made from the milk of yaks, a staple food in the Tibetan diet.

Quality: Look for fresh, well-aged cheese with no signs of mold.
Packaging: Choose a suitable container to prevent the cheese from drying out during travel.
Taste: Sample different types of yak cheese to find your favorite flavor.

Eco-friendly yoga mats made from natural materials like jute and rubber, featuring traditional Tibetan designs.

Material Quality: Look for durable, non-slip materials that provide a comfortable grip.
Design: Choose a design that represents Nagqu's unique style and cultural heritage.
Size: Consider the size of the yoga mat based on your practice space.

Symbolic statues of wind horses, often placed in homes or temples for good luck and protection.

Material Quality: Look for sturdy materials that can withstand daily use.
Design: Select a design that represents Nagqu's unique style and cultural heritage.
Symbolism: Learn about the meanings behind the symbols used in the wind horse statue design.

Spinning wheels containing mantras and symbols, believed to bring good fortune and peace.

Material Quality: Look for sturdy materials that can withstand daily use.
Design: Select a design that represents Nagqu's unique style and cultural heritage.
Symbolism: Learn about the meanings behind the symbols used in the prayer wheel design.

Traditional wooden frames for displaying Thangka paintings, featuring intricate designs and carvings.

Quality of Craftsmanship: Look for well-crafted frames with tight joints and smooth finishes.
Design: Select a design that represents Nagqu's unique style and cultural heritage.
Size: Ensure the frame is appropriate for the size of your Thangka painting.

Ornate masks worn during traditional Tibetan dances and festivals, showcasing intricate designs and vibrant colors.

Quality of Craftsmanship: Look for well-crafted masks with intricate details and high-quality materials.
Design: Select a mask that represents Nagqu's unique style and cultural heritage.
Functionality: Ensure the mask fits properly for comfort during use.