Arunachal: Dirang MLA commits to develop Dalai Lama's escape route for spiritual tourism

In a move set to elevate the spiritual tourism landscape of Arunachal Pradesh, Dirang MLA Phurpa Tsering has pledged to develop the sacred path traversed by His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama during his historic escape from Tibet to India in 1959. This initiative aims to immortalize the journey of His Holiness and put Lumla in Tawang district firmly on the national tourism map.

The young Dalai Lama's clandestine journey saw him seek refuge in the surroundings of Lumla leaving a mark on the region's spiritual heritage. Now, decades later, the Public Works Department, under the leadership of Tsering Lhamu MLA Lungla is spearheading efforts to transform this historic escape trail into a vibrant religious and spiritual tourism circuit.

"We are developing the escape trail of His Holiness into a religious and spiritual tourism circuit," declared Tsering Lhamu MLA Lungla. "As many as five monoliths will be constructed in each place where the Dalai Lama spent the night during his journey to India from Tibet."

The significance of this project lies not only in its historical resonance but also in its potential to attract pilgrims and tourists from far and wide. Lumla, once a fleeting stop on the Dalai Lama's arduous odyssey, is poised to emerge as a sanctuary for spiritual seekers and history enthusiasts alike.

Reflecting on the pivotal role of Lumla in the Dalai Lama's escape, locals recount the historic reception accorded to His Holiness on March 31, 1959, as he crossed into Indian territory. The humble 'Lhasa Dwar', marked by the revered 'Holy Tree', stands as a poignant reminder of the Dalai Lama's passage into freedom.

Moreover, the enclave of Zemithang, where the Dalai Lama sought refuge en route to India, is undergoing a transformation under the vibrant village programme initiated by the central government. With strategic development interventions, Zemithang is poised to flourish as a vibrant hub of culture and spirituality.

By allocating funds for the development of the spiritual path below the Sela Pass Gate, he aims to ensure that future generations can trace the footsteps of the revered spiritual leader and gain insights into his historic journey.

"As his holiness is well known and followed by billions of citizens of every religion in the whole world, witnessing and understanding the hardships faced by him during his foot march should be showcased to the world," expressed Dirang MLA Phurpa Tsering. "Our government is dedicated to developing this spiritual path to immortalize the legacy of His Holiness and promote spiritual tourism in our region."