Thangka painting is a Nepalese art form that came down from Nepal to Tibet.

Thangka paintings are essentially painted or embroidered Buddhist banner, which are hung in monastery or a family altar or even carried in ceremonial processions. They were also used by traveling monks who carried them from one monastery to another. In Tibetan language, Thang means flat and implies painting done on a flat surface. It is also known as scroll- painting as it can be rolled up when not displayed.

Thangka paintings can have multiple functions. The images of deities can be used as teaching tools while preaching of Buddha. They can describe the various historical events in the life of the Lamas and narrating mythological stories. These paintings use devotional images as the centerpiece in a ritual and prayers are offered to them. Most important aspect of Thangka Paintings is that all these paintings are hand painted by the dedicated artisans.
The origin of Thangka painting lay in Indian religious art, and heavenly draws

inspiration from Nepalese, Chinese and Kashmiri styles. A Thangka is more than just a painting. It is an object of devotion, an aid to spiritual practice, and a bringer of blessings. Hanging a Thangka painting is considered auspicious and brings blessings on the household and serves as a constant reminder of the Buddha’s teachings of compassion, kindness and    wisdom.