Himalayan Consensus Projects · Tibetan Textile Revival

Shambhala actively works to empower youth and revitalize an interest in Tibetan culture on the part of Tibetan youth. We believe that culture can be both authentic and modern, and that allowing traditional ideas to evolve is an excellent way to keep culture vibrant and evolving. With these principles in mind, the 'Nomads Boutique' opened in Lhasa in summer 2006 with support from Shambhala. The theme is "Tibetan style by Tibetans" – fashion and accessories for the nomad in us all. The "Nomads" boutique at House of Shambhala radiates with blasting Indian-Tibetan-fusion rock music. The "fashion" - torn jeans sewn with shells, turquoise, silver designs, and brass clips from antique horse bridles – parallels the kind of revivalism witnessed during the American Indian Movement in the 1970s.

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Who we are

Himalayan Consensus is a new paradigm for sustainable economic development that seeks practical community-based solutions, draws upon values indigenous to the Himalayan region, and emphasizes ethnic identity and economic empowerment.

What we do

Himalayan Consensus is an organization which promotes ethnic diversity, cultural preservation, and environmental protection through historical restoration projects and Consensus Community membership. Shambhala Serai is a group of heritage hotels, which is our flagship Consensus Community that serves as a base for the revival of local traditions and customs, such as Turquoise Jewelry Revival, Tibetan Tiger Rug-weaving, and Mala Beads. Each of these micro-enterprises creates a sustainable business for local Tibetans and adds to our Consensus Communities.

How we work

Himalayan Consensus works closely with environmental and development experts. Every Consensus Community receives media exposure for all projects and adds another voice to our grassroots, bottom up development paradigm. Shambhala Serai projects in partnership with other Consensus Communities in the region band together under Himalayan Consensus to stir a global movement of social justice. Additionally, we bring awareness to the serious issue of climate change which most immediately affects 18 countries in the surrounding region from our Glacial Watch specialists.