By Khedroob Thondup

The question of whether Tibetan lamas in exile should visit Tibet if permitted by Beijing is not simply a matter of travel. It is a profound test of spiritual fidelity, political calculation, and communal unity. On the surface, such visits promise a long-awaited homecoming, a chance to reconnect with sacred landscapes and ease tensions. Yet beneath that promise lies the risk of exploitation, division, and propaganda.

The Spiritual Pull. For Tibetan lamas, Tibet is not just geography — it is the heart of their spiritual lineage. Returning to monasteries, mountains, and sacred sites would be a pilgrimage of immense significance, offering renewal and continuity. A visit could also provide solace to Tibetans inside Tibet, who yearn for contact with their exiled teachers. In this sense, the prospect of return carries the weight of spiritual healing and cultural affirmation.

The Political Trap. Bu...