Symbolizing the vast, open sky, the Mongolian khata is usually blue in colour. They are commonly worn or presented at ceremonial occasions, including births, weddings, funerals, graduations and the arrival or departure of guests. When given as a farewell gesture it symbolizes a safe journey. When given to arriving guests it symbolizes a welcome.
In Mongolia, they are often tied to rock shrines, or special trees and rocks. They are also presented to one's Guru, altar and placed on sacred items.
