Dharamshala: His Holiness the Dalai Lama safely returned to His official residence in Dharamshala earlier this morning, 4 September 2026, following a two-month-and-one-week sojourn in Leh, Ladakh.
Upon His arrival at Kangra Airport, His Holiness was accorded a warm welcome by Tibetan Chief Justice Commissioner Yeshi Wangmo, Speaker Dolma Tsering Teykhang, and officiating Sikyong Tsegyal Chukya Dranyi, Kalon of the Department of Religion and Culture. The reception was accompanied by a vibrant performance of the auspicious Tashi Sholpa dance by a group of artistes at the airport exit.
A large number of Tibetans, well-wishers, devotees, supporters, and local residents thronged major points along the route from the airport to His Holiness’ residence, carrying burning incense, flowers, and white scarves to welcome and greet Him as He passed by.
At Thekchen Choeling Tsuglagkhang and at the entrance to His Holiness’ residence, members of the Tibetan Parliament in Exile and Secretaries of the Central Tibetan Administration lined up to receive Him, while the Deputy Speaker, other Justice Commissioners, Kalons, and heads of the three autonomous bodies gathered at the residence entrance to welcome His Holiness.
After leaving Dharamshala, His Holiness the Dalai Lama travelled to Delhi, where he successfully underwent left knee replacement surgery on 8 June. He remained in Delhi during his recovery until 28 June.
Following his recovery, His Holiness travelled to Ladakh, where he spent the subsequent two months and seven days engaging in teachings, public audiences, and various public programmes.
Over the course of His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s extended stay in Ladakh, His Holiness attended the celebration of His 91st birthday at the Kalachakra Teaching Ground in Leh. He also attended prayer ceremonies at the Buddha statue in Stok and at the Buddha statue and stupa in Gonpa Village, and visited the Buddha Garden at the Mahabodhi International Meditation Centre.
His Holiness also attended the final session of the Yarchos Chenmo (Great Summer Debate) at the Matho Teaching Ground, as well as a long-life prayer offering at the Kalachakra Teaching Ground, jointly organised by the Ladakh Buddhist Association, Ladakh Gonpa Association, and the Tibetan Community in Ladakh.
A couple of days before His Holiness’ departure from Ladakh, He was honoured with a thanksgiving and farewell cultural programme at the Kalachakra Teaching Ground.
During this period, His Holiness also granted public audiences to a total of 21,572 visitors from all walks of life and across all age groups.
