XIX 330 v- Buddhist Monks - Ganden Monastery - Tibet, 2011 The approximate 5.5 million Tibetans are an ethnic group with specific traditions. Archaeological and geological discoveries indicate that the Tibetans are descendants of aboriginal and nomadic Qiang indigenous cultures. The history of Tibet began around 4,000 years ago. “Better to see once than to hear many times” Prayer flags, sky burials, festival devil dances, spirit traps and rubbing holy stones are all associated with Tibetan beliefs, evolved from the ancient shamanist Bon religion. The costume and ornaments communicate not only the habits, but also the history, beliefs and climate of the people.