Dalai Lama lays foundation stone for Chowkhang Vihara in Leh

The Dalai Lama on Sunday laid the foundation for the new Chowkhang Vihara in Leh for reconstruction. The event drew a large gathering of religious leaders, local dignitaries and community members.

Upon his arrival at the Chowkhang Vihara, the Dalai Lama was officially received by Ladakh Buddhist Association (LBA) president Chering Dorjay Lakruk, along with other key members and local residents. The reception featured traditional Ladakhi music and ceremonial offering of Khataks.

“Let this not be a place for only ritual prayers and idle chatter but a centre for deep study and debate on Buddhist philosophy, a wellspring of wisdom for generations,” the Tibetan spiritual leader said after laying the foundation.

Lakruk called the event a historic moment for the region. He said a request had been made to his holiness to come for the event some three months back.

“This is perhaps the greatest blessing we could receive. The whole of Ladakh is touched by auspicious winds today,” he said.

The temple, constructed in 1957, is up for reconstruction after developing cracks and other damage due to floods.

The ceremony was also attended by Chief Executive Councillor Tashi Gyalson, Executive Councillors of the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council (LAHDC), Leh, among other prominent figures from across Ladakh.

Following the ceremony, Dalai Lama extended his visit to the Dharma Centre at Choglamsar, where he delivered a special address to those in attendance, further blessing the community with his compassionate teachings. The Dalai Lama reached Leh on July 12 on a month-long tour of the region.