Dalai Lama Returns to Dharamshala After Winter Sojourn and Delhi Visit
The Tibetan spiritual leader, the Dalai Lama, arrived in Dharamshala on Friday, concluding a two-month winter sojourn at the Mundgod Doeguling Tibetan settlement in Karnataka. His journey included a three-day stop in Delhi for a medical check-up and meetings with visitors before his return to Dharamshala.
Traditional Welcome in Dharamshala
Upon his arrival, Tibetans, devotees, and well-wishers lined the road from Kangra airport to his residence at the Tsuglagkhang in Mcleodganj. They offered a warm and heartfelt welcome by holding ceremonial scarves, flowers, and incense. The streets were filled with the fragrance of burning juniper and came alive with performances of Tashi Sholpa and other traditional welcome dances and songs presented by various Tibetan institutions.
Religious Engagements During Winter Stay
During his 60-day stay in Mundgod, the Dalai Lama participated in a series of religious engagements. In December 2025, he attended the annual Gaden Ngachod, an enthronement ceremony accompanied by long-life prayers, at Drepung Monastery. He also presided over a three-day Gelong ordination, which included monks from Gaden Shartse, Drepung Loseling, Drepung Gomang, Rato, Tashi Lhunpo, and other monasteries.
In January, the Dalai Lama attended the annual debate presentations by Geshe Lharampas. He witnessed the Jang Gunchoe on two separate occasions and graced the annual Rigtsog debate presentation, besides attending a long-life prayer at Gaden Lachi. The spiritual leader also conducted a four-day Gelong ordination. On January 21, he inaugurated the new Gaden Jangtse Education Centre and Library.
Concluding Ceremonies and Audiences
The Dalai Lama's engagements concluded with his presence at the first annual remembrance prayer service for the late Gyalo Thondup, a veteran Tibetan diplomat and former Kalon Tripa, who was also the Dalai Lama's elder brother. In addition to these ceremonies, the Dalai Lama granted audiences and offered spiritual guidance to around 16,000 devotees and followers. This included meetings with distinguished individuals such as Nobel Peace Laureate Leymah Gbowee and important Indian officials and politicians.
