Introduction
Tibet exercises our most imaginative powers; when we close our eyes and think of Tibet, images of “Shangri-La” , “Land of Snow” and “Roof of the World” comes into being. Tibet is mysterious in a way few other places are…

Geography
In terms of geographical size, the area of Tibet is more than twice the area of France with only a total population of 2.3 million.

Most of Tibet is arid and cold with an average altitude of 4,000m—5,000m. The growing season in Tibet is short lasting less than 4 months. On the lower sections of the plateau, there is considerably greater rainfall and the climate is less less extreme.

Rural Economy
Rural Tibetans are farmers or pastoralist who raise sheep, yaks and horses. If and when physical conditions permits, they practice both.

Identity (Religion)
Tibetan are deeply religious people. It can be said that the foundation of Tibetan identity is Buddhism. And it is within the realm that artisan activities are executed. And therefore, artisan activities in Tibet are templates of Tibet culture and identity.

Culture
When you visit Tibet, you will find that Tibet is a living legacy of their culture, traditions and heritage. However, it is important to understand that this situation is not static. Social changes are taking place and in this day of advance communication technologies, cultural and trade exchanges such as in the form of regionalization and globalization, the rate of change is swift and rapid.

Modernization
It must be said that modernity, development and progress have brought about many benefits to the people of Tibet. For example, medical and health care, communication, infrastructure developments and the market economy have all raised the standard of living and improve people’s lives in general.

But modernity, development and progress is a two edged sword. While bringing benefits to people, it has also eroded traditions, heritage and the identity of communities. Such a situation is not unique to Tibet itself; it is common characteristics of all societies that are under going transition and development.

Economy
Added to this complexity, the economy of Tibet is also changing and changing fast. Before, as in elsewhere in China, the economy was centrally planned and the state took responsibility for most of the people’s welfare. However, after liberalization in the 1990s, the market and cash economy has now taken a hold and people have to adjust radically to this reality.

Eco-System
Not only has this change affected the lives of people, it has also affected the fragile mountain eco-system of Tibet. For example, increased in animal husbandry in order to further participate in the market economy, has lead to over grazing of pasturelands in some regions. This, in turn, has lead to soil erosion, which results in natural calamities such as flooding.

Sub-Conclusion
Lastly, Tibet is a very special pace. It is currently recovering itself from historical circumstances and the process of rebuilding and reconstruction is a difficult procedure amidst contemporary developments.