A Guide to Sacred Himalayan Art
You will see intricate paintings of mandalas and Buddhas in Namche. These are Thangkas. They are not just art; they are meditation tools. Buying one is a beautiful way to remember your Everest expedition.
Look closely at the brush strokes. A high-quality Master Thangka uses single-hair brushes and real gold dust. Cheap tourist versions look blocky. Use the magnifying glass provided by the shopkeeper.
Ask the artist to explain the symbols. The Wheel of Life or the Life of Buddha are common themes. Understanding the story adds value to the piece.
They are painted on canvas. The shop will roll it into a sturdy tube. It travels easily in your backpack. Do not fold it! It is the perfect durable souvenir from your Everest trekking trip.
A good Thangka takes months to paint. Respect the price and the skill involved.
