Despite Chinese opposition, Dalai Lama arrives in Arunachal Pradesh

GUWAHATI: Exiled Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama arrived at Bomdila on Tuesday on a visit to Arunachal Pradesh, ignoring warning from China.

Dalai Lama was originally scheduled to fly to Tawang from Guwahati, but severe weather forced him to reschedule the trip. His chopper could not take off due to inclement weather, so he travelled by road to reach Bomdila in western Arunachal Pradesh.

The Lama will be in the state till April 12. China had warned India against Dalai Lama visiting Arunachal Pradesh, saying this could damage diplomatic ties.


The two countries have a border dispute with China claiming parts of Arunachal Pradesh, including Tawang region, as southern Tibet.

Dalai Lama will deliver a discourse at the Buddha Park in Bomdila on Wednesday. He is expected to stay at Dirang, around 14 km from Bomdila, before proceeding to Tawang on Thursday.

Tawang has made elaborate preparation for the spiritual leader’s visit, and has a festive look with colourful flags and flowers. Devotees and people from villages have started descending to the town.

Also, around 3,000 devotees from neighbouring Bhutan are camping in Tawang. After the Tawang visit, he will return to Itanagar. Last time, the Dalai Lama visited Arunachal was in 2009.