Dharamsala, 25 June — The Dalai Lama will travel to Ladakh in July, marking his first visit to the Himalayan region in two years. According to a letter from his office dated June 21, the Tibetan spiritual leader is scheduled to arrive in Leh on July 12 and will remain there for approximately 45 days.
The announcement was formally conveyed to Tsering Dorje, Chairman of the Ladakh Buddhist Association (LBA), which issued a statement welcoming the visit with “great joy,” noting its profound spiritual and cultural significance for the people of Ladakh.
“The Dalai Lama’s presence brings immense strength to our community,” Dorje said. “His teachings offer guidance not just for Buddhists but for all who value peace, compassion, and harmony.”
During his stay, the 1989 Nobel Peace Laureate will rest for a few days to acclimatise to Ladakh’s high-altitude terrain. His itinerary includes a series of public teachings, private meetings, and spiritual events in Leh and nearby regions. A tentative tour to Zanskar—renowned for its centuries-old monasteries and strong Buddhist heritage—is also being considered, though dates for that leg of the journey are yet to be finalised.
This visit comes after the cancellation of a planned trip in July 2024 due to the Dalai Lama undergoing knee surgery in the United States. In the aftermath, several Ladakhi spiritual and community leaders made renewed efforts to facilitate his return. In October 2024, a delegation comprising Thiksey Rinpoche, Tsering Dorje of the LBA, Tsering Angdus of the Ladakh Gonpa Association, and Jigmet Rabtan of the Ladakh Youth Association met the Dalai Lama in Dharamsala to revive the proposal for a 2025 visit.
His upcoming teachings in Ladakh are expected to centre on Buddhist philosophy, compassion, and interfaith dialogue—principles he has long advocated globally.
Before departing for Ladakh, the Dalai Lama will participate in a series of events marking his 90th birthday in Dharamsala. Celebrations will begin on June 30 with a long-life offering ceremony and a public program at the Tsuglagkhang Temple in McLeodganj, hosted by the Amdo Province community, the region of his birth. On July 5, the Central Tibetan Administration will offer another long-life ceremony on behalf of Tibetans in exile, followed by official birthday celebrations on July 6, expected to draw both virtual and in-person participation from around the world.
