This was the first time the Panchen Lama has visited the region since his enthronement 22 years ago.

 

He arrived in Qamdo on Aug. 29 and the next day visited Champa Ling Monastery, the largest monastery of Gelug Sect with 1,054 monks.

 

During his tour, the Panchen Lama, who is also vice president of the Buddhist Association of China and a member of the Standing Committee of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, also visited several villages, factories and Qamdo Economic Development Zone. He spoke to local residents, representatives from all walks of life and offered blessings to followers.