Dalai Lama Arrives For Month-Long Ladakh Visit: Young People Shed Tears Of Joy While Welcoming Him

Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama arrived in Ladakh on Saturday, marking the start of a highly anticipated month-long stay that has brought a surge of joy and celebration across the region.

Before departing for Ladakh, hundreds of Tibetans and devoted followers lined the streets of Dharamshala in the early hours of Saturday morning, waiting patiently for a glimpse of the revered Buddhist leader as he set out on his journey.

Warm welcome in Leh

At Leh airport, the Dalai Lama was greeted by enthusiastic crowds dressed in traditional attire, waving ceremonial scarves and offering prayers. Among the dignitaries who received him were Ladakh MP Haji Hanifa Jan, Ladakh DGP S D Singh Jamwal, and Chief Executive Councillor Tashi Gyalson of the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council.

Thousands of devotees gathered along the route to Jivetsal Choglamsar, where they chanted mantras and presented flowers to mark his arrival. People held incense sticks, candles, silk scarves and flowers as they welcomed his holiness in Leh.

Spiritual itinerary: Zanskar & beyond

According to Lakrook, an official involved in the visit, the Dalai Lama will also travel to Zanskar for a few days as part of his spiritual engagements. “Once he returns from Zanskar, we plan to request him to offer teachings to the people of Ladakh,” Lakrook shared.

The Dalai Lama often prefers Ladakh during the monsoon months due to its dry, pleasant weather, making it an ideal setting for extended stays and public discourses.

This journey to Leh follows the postponement of his planned July 2024 trip, which was rescheduled after he underwent knee surgery in the United States. His last visit to Ladakh took place in 2023, highlighting his deep and longstanding bond with the Himalayan communities.

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A call to nurture compassion

Addressing a large assembly at Jivetsal Photang, the Dalai Lama reminded the people of Ladakh of their important role in preserving the profound heritage of Tibetan Buddhist teachings. “We must uphold our sacred duty to sustain and share this wisdom, and cultivate a heart filled with compassion and kindness for the benefit of all sentient beings,” he said.

Ladakh administration’s preparations

His arrival has sparked widespread enthusiasm, with the Ladakh administration making elaborate arrangements to ensure a smooth and meaningful visit. The coming weeks are expected to include public teachings, blessings, and interactions with monastic communities, further strengthening Ladakh’s identity as a centre of Buddhist practice and learning.