17th Karmapa to Visit Sikkim “Very Soon,” Accepts CM Tamang’s Invitation

By Tenzin Chokyi

DHARAMSALA, 19 Oct: The 17th Karmapa, Ogyen Trinley Dorje, has confirmed that he plans to visit Sikkim “very soon,” accepting a renewed invitation extended directly by Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang during a recent high-level meeting.

The spiritual leader’s assurance marks a major milestone in the Himalayan state’s long-standing efforts to facilitate his return. According to an official statement released by SKM Darpan, the media outlet of the ruling Sikkim Krantikari Morcha party, Chief Minister Tamang and Ecclesiastical Affairs Minister Sonam Lama briefed the Karmapa on the physical and logistical preparations underway for his visit during a rare audience held abroad, at a location that has not been disclosed.

Chief Minister Tamang informed the Karmapa that the construction of a dedicated accommodation facility at Goenchen Phodong, which will host him during his stay in the state, is nearing completion. Expressing appreciation for the state’s arrangements, the Karmapa formally acknowledged the invitation and confirmed his intention to visit Sikkim shortly, though he has yet to announce specific dates.

The development coincides with the Karmapa’s scheduled trip to Bhutan to attend consecration ceremonies for Project 108 from 1 to 4 November, an initiative to establish 108 Jangchub Chortens in Gelephu. While no public announcement has officially linked the two itineraries, his presence in the immediate region signals a significant step toward his prospective return to Sikkim.

The 17th Karmapa has resided outside India since May 2017. Access to Rumtek Monastery—the primary seat-in-exile established by the 16th Karmapa, Rangjung Rigpe Dorje—remains a sensitive issue. Alhough India’s Cabinet Committee on Security previously permitted a Sikkim visit in 2018 while excluding Rumtek, the trip did not materialise. The Sikkim government subsequently formed a dedicated facilitation committee in 2022 to address administrative hurdles.

With the state-funded infrastructure at Goenchen Phodong nearing completion and direct diplomatic engagement underway, the Karmapa’s positive response represents the clearest indication yet of a forthcoming visit to Sikkim.