The meanings behind Tibetan prayer flags.

There are two kinds of prayer flags: horizontal ones, called lung ta (Wind Horse in Tibetan) and the vertical Darchor. "Dar" translates as "to increase life, fortune, health and wealth", "Cho" translates as "all sentient beings"


The Buddhist prayers and mantras that are written on them produce a spiritual vibration that is carried by the wind to spread good will and compassion into all pervading space. All beings touched by the wind are uplifted and blessed. Prayer flags' silent prayers are blessings spoken on the breath of nature.
The best times to put up new prayer flags are in the mornings on sunny, windy days. Old prayer flags are replaced with new ones annually on the Tibetan New Year.
Because the symbols and mantras on prayer flags are sacred, they should be treated with respect. They should not be placed on the ground or used in clothing.