The Prayer Flag is one of the most important Tibetan Buddhist ritual items, which are traditionally hung outside temples, at holy sites, atop mountain summits or anywhere in the open, where the prayers may meet the wind. Prayer flags are said to invoke peace, wisdom, strength, and to offer protection against dangers and evil. One of the most iconic images associated with Tibet is that of colourful Tibetan prayer flags fluttering in the wind.
Dar Cho, the Tibetan for prayer flags, means to 'increase life and fortune for all sentient beings.' Each flag is inscribed with a Buddhist prayer and symbol, and the blessing contained on each flag is carried on the wind to everyone the wind touches. Each of the five colours represents a different element: blue is space; white is air; red is fire; green is water; and yellow is earth. There are numerous designs, one of the most common is the Wind Horse, representing good fortune. The tradition of prayer flags is thought to be over 2.000 years old. The practice of hanging the flags has sadly declined in Tibet as a result of China's occupation: although the flags are allowed to be hung in Tibet, many unique designs have been destroyed.
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