The colorful flags, originated with the ancient Tibetan religion bön and typical of the mountain areas of Tibet and Himalayas are not ornaments or even simple flags: they spread wisdom, peace, strength and wellness to all living beings.
Horizontal prayer flags are called lung-ta (small and rectangular or square shape) and vertical flags are called darchor (rectangular and large, attached to vertical posts).
- blue: sky
- white: wind
- red: fire
- green: water
- yellow: earth
Tibetans continually arrange new flags alongside the oldies, symbolizing a welcoming of new life.
Since they are sacred, the flags should be treated with respect: they should not be placed on the ground or used for other purposes.