Thangka is the unique painting art form of Tibetan nationality. Its shape is similar to that of a traditional scroll painting of China. Most of Thangka handed down are the works of Tibetan Buddhism and Bon religion. Themes involve many fields of Tibetan nationality including history, politics, culture and social life. It forms a type of encyclopedia of the Tibetan nationality.

Most Thangka are painted on cloth or paper. The Thangka is sewn with silks and satins and mounted. The thin rope on the upper horizontal axis facilitates hanging, and the two ends of lower scroll are decorated exquisitely. The surface of each Thangka is covered by thin silk and two colored ribbons. After a Buddhist Thangka is painted and mounted, Lamas are generally invited to chant scriptures, and leave golden or cinnabar handprints on its back cover.

The process of making the Thangka is extremely complex. Most of pigments are natural minerals or plant materials. Colors are bright and long-lasting, reflecting the strong style of Tibet. Sizes differ, ranging from large ones of tens of square meters down to little ones of only a few square meters; a common size is 1-2 square meters.

Topics and content cover an extensive range, and include historical events, biographies, religious doctrine, customs, folklore, fairy tales, building layouts, etc. , or covering modern aspects of Tibet including society, politics, economics, culture, and military affairs. The composition of Thangka is rigorous, balanced, full and varied, and the painting techniques mainly include painting with exact delineation and enriched colors, and line drawing in traditional ink and brush style.

The production processes of Thangka include colored drawing, printing, embroidery, brocade, tapestry, applique and pearls, etc. Some have a three-dimensional effect and texture, and are lifelike.