Leh, July 13, 2025: The 14th Dalai Lama, spiritual leader of Tibetan Buddhism, arrived in Ladakh on Saturday for a much-anticipated month-long visit. This marks his first visit to the region in two years, and he was welcomed with great fervor and ceremonial honours.
Warm Reception in Leh
The Dalai Lama landed at the Leh airport aboard an Indian Air Force aircraft and was accorded Z+ security. Upon arrival, he was greeted by senior monks, local leaders, and representatives from religious and cultural organizations. A large crowd had gathered to welcome His Holiness, reflecting the spiritual significance of his visit.
Stay at Shiwa Tsel Phodrang
During his stay, the Dalai Lama will reside at Shiwa Tsel Phodrang, a spiritual retreat on the outskirts of Leh. The Ladakh administration, along with local volunteers, has made elaborate arrangements to ensure smooth conduct of his stay and public events.
Public Teachings and Spiritual Engagements
Over the next four weeks, the Dalai Lama is expected to deliver several public teachings, spiritual discourses, and private meetings. Thousands of devotees from across India and abroad are expected to travel to Ladakh during this period.
Many in Ladakh consider the Dalai Lama their spiritual guru. His presence is seen as a blessing, especially after the cancellation of his planned visit in 2024 due to medical treatment in the U.S.
A Message of Compassion
Earlier this month, the Dalai Lama celebrated his 90th birthday and urged people to cultivate compassion and inner peace. “Peace of mind can be achieved through a good heart and compassion,” he said during his birthday address.
Also Read: Dalai Lama Turns 90: Dharamshala Hosts Grand Spiritual Celebration
Political Undertones Amid Successor Talks
This visit comes amid ongoing discussions about the future of Tibetan spiritual leadership. In a statement released ahead of his visit, his office reiterated that only the Dalai Lama has the authority to decide on his reincarnation, in an apparent rebuttal to China’s claims.
The statement underscored the historical tensions between Tibet and China. The Dalai Lama had fled Tibet in 1959 following a failed uprising against Chinese rule and has since lived in exile in Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh.
Security and Diplomacy
With the geopolitical sensitivities around Tibet and China, the Indian government has ensured tight security throughout his stay. His Z+ protection and travel on an Air Force aircraft reflect both reverence and caution.
FAQs
Q1. Where is the Dalai Lama staying during his Ladakh visit?
A: The Dalai Lama is staying at Shiwa Tsel Phodrang, a spiritual retreat located on the outskirts of Leh.
Q2. How long will the Dalai Lama remain in Ladakh?
A: His Holiness is scheduled to stay in Ladakh for nearly a month, engaging in public teachings and private meetings.
Q3. Why was the Dalai Lama’s 2024 Ladakh visit cancelled?
A: The 2024 visit was cancelled due to the Dalai Lama undergoing knee surgery in the United States.
Q4. What security measures are in place for the Dalai Lama?
A: The Dalai Lama has been provided Z+ security, and he traveled to Ladakh on an Indian Air Force aircraft.
Q5. Why is the Dalai Lama’s visit politically significant?
A: The visit comes amid debates about his successor, with his office asserting exclusive rights over the selection process, countering China’s claims.
