His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama

The revival of Buddhism in the Himalaya region is very important for His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, and his teachings in Spiti Valley are part of his efforts in this regard. His relationship with Spiti Valley began when he received a request from Kyi Monastery to visit the region. At that time, however, he could not travel to the area, so he seconded Tsenshap Serkong Rinpoche to come instead. Tsenshap Serkong Rinpoche gave His Holiness a detailed report about the region, informing him of the importance and uniqueness of the ancient Tabo temple site. He also conveyed a request from the local communities of Tabo, Lari and Poh that His Holiness lead a Kalachakra initiation at Tabo. The initiation took place in 1983.

Tabo Monastery and the people of Tabo, Lari and Poh very much appreciate the many visits His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama has made to the valley, and the guidance he has given them.

His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama has visited Tabo on five occasions:

• In July and August 1983, he taught about the text The 37 Practices of Bodhisattvas and led the Kalachakra initiation at Tabo, with 10,000 people taking part.

• In June and July 1996, he again led the Kalachakra initiation at Tabo, with 20,000 people taking part.

• In May 2003, he taught about Je Tsongkhapa’s text The Foundation of All Qualities.

• In June 2004, he gave a Vajradhatu initiation (Dorying) at the old temple. At the end of the initiation, His Holiness gave a special talk to the public.

• In 2009, he taught about the text In Praise of Dependent Origination and inaugurated the new Kalachakra Stupa.

Pictures

Detailed information about the life, teachings and publications of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama is available at the website www.dalailama.com.