Sonamling Tibetan Settlement –

The Sonamling Tibetan Settlement was established in 1960 under the Central Tibetan Relief Committee and the guidance of His Holiness the Great 14th Dalai Lama. The settlement is home to approximately 7238 residents, spread across 12 camps in Leh and 9 locations in the Jangthang region.

Livelihood

The majority of residents follow a semi-nomadic lifestyle. Their primary means of livelihood include:

· Selling trinkets and handicrafts

· Seasonal sweater business

· Street vending and small-scale businesses

Administration and Welfare

The Chief Representative Office (CRO) is responsible for overseeing the welfare of Tibetans in both Leh and Jangthang. Under the CRO, several key institutions function to support the community:

· Local Tibetan Justice Commission Office

· Local Tibetan Assembly, Ladakh

· Tibetan Co-operative Society, Ladakh

· Primary Tibetan Health Care Centre

· Tibetan Children’s Village (TCV) School, Ladakh

· Tibetan Medical and Astro Institute (Mentsekhang)

· Local Tibetan Freedom Movement Offices in both Leh and Jangthang.

Camp Distribution

· Leh Region: 12 camps, with 8 located in Choglamsar and 4 in Agling

· Jangthang Region: Includes settlements in Kakshung, Goyul, Hanley, Chumur, Chushul (near the Indo-Tibet border), and others like Nyoma, Sumdho, Maque, and Samed

Community Support

· The Old Age Home is managed by TCV Ladakh

· Ex-servicemen are supported by Vikas, based in the Agling camp

Religious Institutions

There are several monasteries within the settlement, including:

· Phodang Garpheling

· Bon Cultural and Presevation Society

· Karma Dupgyud Choeling Monastery

· Rudok Lhundup Choding Monastery

· Karma Thubten Choekhorling Monastery

· As well as a number of Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) supporting various initiatives.

Transportation

· Nearest Airport: Kushok Bakula Rinpoche Airport, approximately 15 km from the CRO Office

· Road Access: Available during summer via Manali–Tanglang La Road and Srinagar–Leh Highway