The Library of Tibetan Works and Archives (LTWA) is a renowned cultural and research institution located in Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh, India. It was established on 11 June 1970 by His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso, with the aim of preserving the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of Tibet, which was under threat following the Chinese occupation of Tibet and the subsequent 1959 exodus. It is widely regarded as one of the most significant repositories of Tibetan literature, history, and Buddhist philosophy in the world.
The library holds a vast collection of over 80,000 manuscripts, books, and documents in Tibetan and other languages. Many of these rare materials were brought from Tibet during the 1959 escape and include important works on Tibetan Buddhism, culture, politics, and arts. Additionally, the LTWA houses more than 600 thangkas (traditional scroll paintings), statues, and sacred artefacts, along with over 10,000 historical photographs.
The second floor of the library features a museum, established in 1974, which displays several culturally significant items dating back to the twelfth century. Esteemed scholars such as Geshe Sonam Rinchen and current director Geshe Lhakdor have contributed greatly to the library’s academic reputation.
Address: 68GG+G5J, Gangchen Kyishong, Upmuhal, Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh 176215Hours: Open ⋅ Closes 5 pm Phone: 098822 55047
