Tibetan Traditions – Sweet Tea

Tibetan Traditions – Introduction of Sweet Tea

Sweet tea is named "Qia Anmo" in Tibetan language. It is one of the most favorite drinks of Tibetans. It is very popular especially in the towns of Lhasa, Shannan and Shigatse. Now, the tradition of drinking sweet tea has gradually spread into the villages around towns.

In Tibet, the tea has special meaning. It is holy symbol. In Tibetan traditions and marriage custom, Tibetans will provide it. The sweet tea is not Tibetan local drink, but Tibetans has integrated it into their life and made it become necessary drink in their daily life.

Tibetan Traditions – Making Process of Sweet Tea

The sweet tea uses black tea as raw material, which can not be replaced by other kinds of tea. First, boil the black tea. Then, filter the tea leaves. At last, add some milk (the fresh milk or milk power), white sugar or juice in it. Then, a cup of fragrant and tasty sweet tea is done. The making process of sweet tea is very simple. Because it with less fatness, it is welcome by Tibetan young people. Drinking sweet tea has become a part of Tibetan traditions. Some Tibetan young people also think drinking sweet tea is same as drinking butter tea. It is Tibetan custom which formed in ancient time.

Because Tibet does not produce black tea, it is introduced into Tibet through trading. The making process and drinking of sweet tea in Ya Dong and Gynagtze districts are similar with Indian and Nepal.

Tibetan Traditions – Function of Sweet Tea

The sweet tea can relieve the discomfort which brought by high altitude. It is with sweet and gentle taste.

Tibetan Traditions – Entertainment of Sweet Tea

There is a very popular entertainment in the sweet tea houses named "Ger Rang". That is using fingers to catapult a kind of entertainment article. It was introduced into Tibet from India, but it has become an entertainment in Tibetan life, just as the sweet tea. This entertainment and sweet tea integrated into each other, pandering to Tibetan leisure life and entertainment. It gradually became part of Tibetan traditions. Furthermore, there are Chinese chess, poker and some other entertainments in the sweet tea houses.