Tibetan monks are an ever-present sight in Tibetan society. They play a major role in the lives of the Tibetan people, conducting religious ceremonies and caring for the monasteries. Nearly one-third of Tibet’s population are monks, and they can be seen everywhere in Tibet, from the streets of Lhasa to the remote Mount Kailash.

The distinctive clothing of Tibetan monks not only symbolizes the deep spirituality of Tibet but also reflects their religious beliefs and connection to longstanding traditions. Having a deeper understanding of their traditions before you arrive in Tibet will help you have a deeper appreciation of local culture.

The Burgundy Red Kasaya is the Symbol of Tibetan Monks

Tibetan monks are immediately identifiable by their robes. The burgundy red kasaya is worn by fully ordained Buddhist monks in a tradition dating back almost 2,500 years to Lord Buddha himself. Named for the saffron dye that gave the robes their original distinctive color, kasaya were adapted to Tibet's cold climate when Buddhism was introduced in the 7th century.

Tibetan monks in red robes are the most commonly seen in Tibet.

The kasaya worn by Tibetan monks is twice the body's length and wrapped obliquely about their shoulders. Traditionally, they are made from hand-spun wool for warmth and dyed with natural dyes. Robes are worn in different ways depending on the monks' sect and area. The most universal one is worn for collecting alms when the robe covers both shoulders. The two top corners are held together, and the edges are rolled tightly together. The roll is then pushed over the left shoulder, down the back, under the armpit, and is pressed down with the left arm. The roll is parted in front through which protrudes the right arm.

More Types of Tibetan Robes for Different Occasions and Monastic Ranks

Monks' attire is determined by strict rules in Tibet. In addition to the robes most commonly seen in places like the streets of Lhasa, different robes are worn for certain occasions and to indicate monastic rank.

Tibetan monks wear full robes during important religious ceremonies.

The dhonka is a wrap shirt with cap sleeves. The dhonka usually is maroon or maroon and yellow with blue piping.

The shemdap is a maroon skirt made with patched cloth and a varying number of pleats.

The chögu is something like a sanghati, a wrap made in patches and worn on the upper body, although sometimes it is draped over one shoulder like a kashaya robe. The chögu is yellow and worn for certain ceremonies and teachings.

The zhen is similar to the chögu, but maroon, and is for ordinary day-to-day wear.

The namjar is larger than the chögu, with more patches. It is yellow and often made of silk. Monks were it for formal ceremonial occasions.

Within the monastery or residence and when having an audience with a more senior monk, a simpler style is adopted as a gesture of respect and to facilitate work. The right side of the robe is pushed under the armpit and over the robe on the left, leaving the right shoulder bare.

Tibetan Monk Hats with Colors Varying by Buddhist Sect

Hats are also an important part of the costume for Tibetan monks and a distinctive feature of different schools of Tibetan Buddhism. The main sects can easily be distinguished by the color of their hats, with the Nyingma Sect wearing red hats, the Gelug Sect wearing yellow hats, and Kagyu monks wearing white hats in summer.

A Tibetan monk's position can also be indicated by various hats. The Lotus hat is only worn by high-ranking lamas of the Nyingma School, and their elaborate decoration has deep symbolic meaning. The most common are Pandit Hats. They have a rounded, pointed top and long trailing edge on each side. Fan-shaped hats are unique in Tibetan areas. They are commonly seen in Ganden Monastery, Drepung Monastery, and Sera Monastery. Small Hats, worn without decoration, at the traditional hat of Kagyu.

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What do Tibetan Monks wear on their feet? Both Traditional Boots and Modern Sneakers

When it comes to footwear, Tibetan monks traditionally wore Gompa boots, which are made from leather and wool. These boots are designed to provide warmth and protection in the harsh Tibetan climate. The boots are typically simple in design, reflecting the monk's vow of poverty, but they are durable and practical, suitable for the rugged terrain of the Tibetan plateau.

When you visit Tibetan monasteries, you will see Tibetan monks dragging their Gompa boots outside the main hall.

In modern times, however, it is not uncommon to see Tibetan monks wearing sneakers or other modern footwear. While this might seem out of place with their traditional robes, it is a practical adaptation to the needs of contemporary life. The choice of footwear often depends on the monk's daily activities; for instance, those who are more active or who travel frequently may opt for the comfort and support offered by modern shoes.

Nowadays, Tibetan monks also prefer to wear comfortable sneakers in their daily lives

Why do Tibetan monks wear red and yellow?

Red and yellow are the prominent colors you will see associated with monasteries and monks. By tradition, the colors are rarely seen ornamenting people's homes, instead being reserved for sacred places. For example, Potala Palace has the Red Palace, which protects the tombs of successive Dalai Lamas, and yellow can be found in the Qangba Buddha Hall of Drepung Monastery.

It's common to see Tibetan monks dressed in red and yellow during visits to Tibetan monasteries.

Yellow has long roots in Buddhist tradition, dating back to Lord Buddha. After embracing the idea of simplicity, he returned to collect a discarded white robe that had been yellowed by the sun. Yellow was the original color of the kasaya and is still used by the Gelug Sect, which implements the reincarnation system of living Buddhas.

Red originally had both symbolic and practical significance. In the 7th century, when Buddhism was introduced to Tibet, robes were changed to red to avoid the yellow color used by the royal family of Han. Red is also connected to beliefs of the Bon Religion, the ancient spiritual practices of the Tibetan people. The Red Sect, Nyingma Sect, emphasizes insight into the nature of the mind and the nature of things. Their practices have spread outside of Tibet to places like India, Bhutan, Nepal, and even as far away as Europe and North America.

Can Tibetan monks wear anything other than robes?

While the traditional robe is the most common attire for Tibetan monks, there are certain situations where monks may wear other types of clothing. For instance, during particularly cold weather, Tibetan monks may wear additional layers of clothing, such as woolen cloaks or jackets, to keep warm. These garments are usually simple in design and adhere to the same principles of modesty and humility that guide the selection of robes.

In some cases, monks who engage in specific types of physical labor may wear more practical clothing that allows for greater ease of movement. However, even in these cases, the clothing remains modest and does not detract from the monk's spiritual practice.

Monks who travel outside of Tibet, especially to urban areas, may also adopt more contemporary clothing for practical reasons. However, the essence of their monastic commitment is always reflected in their choice of attire, which is typically simple and devoid of unnecessary adornment.

In daily life, Tibetan lamas and nuns may mix their robes with casual clothes for practicality.

Can I wear monk robes when I visit Tibet?

No matter how well-intentioned, you should NOT wear monk's robes or hats when visiting Tibet. The traditional monk's attire is a symbol of commitment to Tibetan Buddhist teachings. Becoming a monk involves years of study and a lifelong commitment. The robes are earned after considerable hard work, and for a layperson to wear them is disrespectful.

You can show your appreciation for the monks and their beliefs by dressing modestly when visiting spiritual centers. Simple clothing in muted colors that cover at least your knees and shoulders will demonstrate your respect for local Tibetan culture and beliefs.

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Conclusion

The costume of Tibetan monks is part of the region's cultural pageantry. Color and style have deep symbolic meaning and communicate the ancient traditions of Tibetan Buddhism.

When you visit Tibetan monasteries or meet Tibetan monks during your Tibet tour, you can gain a deeper understanding of their way of life and spiritual practices. Observing their attire and rituals will offer insights into their beliefs and the rich history of Tibetan Buddhism. This knowledge will enrich your experience, allowing you to connect more meaningfully with the people and culture you encounter in Tibet.