Tibet House is a centre for Tibetan culture and Buddhist studies on Lodhi Road in Delhi. Founded in 1965 at the Dalai Lama’s request, it preserves Tibetan traditions through its museum, library and cultural programme. Inside the five-storey museum, look for thangka paintings, sculptures, manuscripts, old currency, prayer objects, headpieces and musical instruments. The library holds more than 5,000 books and manuscripts. Lectures, exhibitions, film screenings and performances add context to a visit; the café serves Tibetan food, including momos.
A centre for Tibetan culture
Tibet House was founded in 1965 at the request of the Dalai Lama. Its purpose is to preserve and share Tibet’s cultural heritage and support Tibetan and Buddhist studies. The programme reaches beyond specialist study, bringing together scholars, artists, social activists and members of the public.
The centre’s work spans philosophy, religion, history, art, literature and culture, with a focus on Tibetan and Indian Buddhist traditions. Lectures and conferences sit alongside exhibitions, film screenings and festivals. Check the website before visiting for information about current events and classes.
Art and objects in the museum
The five-storey museum presents Tibetan art and historical objects. Its galleries include thangka paintings and sculptures, as well as manuscripts, old currency notes, prayer objects, headpieces and musical instruments. These objects offer a close look at artistic practice and aspects of Tibetan religious and cultural life.
The collection brings different kinds of material together, from works of art to objects used in prayer and music. Take time to look through the galleries rather than treating the museum as a single-room stop. The building itself has a restrained modernist design, with a square form raised on a smaller base and an exposed-concrete exterior.
Library, events and a pause at the café
The in-house library holds more than 5,000 books and manuscripts on Tibetan philosophy and related subjects. It is also connected to the centre’s research and translation work. Visitors interested in Buddhist studies can check for talks, conferences and classes that add discussion to the museum’s visual displays.
Cultural events can include film screenings, festivals, music and dance performances, and exhibitions. Their schedules change, so look up what is on before setting out. The café serves Tibetan food, including momos, making it a convenient place to pause during a visit.
Häufige Fragen
Where is Tibet House in Delhi?
Tibet House is at 1 Lodhi Road, in the Institutional Area of Lodi Colony, New Delhi.
What can you see at Tibet House?
The museum displays Tibetan art and historical objects, including thangka paintings, sculptures, manuscripts, currency, prayer objects, headpieces and musical instruments.
Does Tibet House have a library?
Yes. Its library holds more than 5,000 books and manuscripts, including material on Tibetan philosophy.
Are there events at Tibet House?
The centre hosts lectures, conferences, exhibitions, film screenings and festivals. Check its website for current events and classes.
