The Tibet Museum which was initially named 'Tibetan National Commemoration and Documentation Centre' was established on 22nd June, 1998. The idea for the museum had been conceived by the Tibetan government and many different approaches were discussed before the final concept was agreed upon. On 30th April, 2000, His Holiness the Dalai Lama inaugurated the museum in a ceremony attended by around 300 dignitaries and volunteers. Tibet museum was established with the aim of presenting Tibet’s history and visions for its future through texts, photographs, videos and installations. The museum features our main exhibition, "A long look homeward". It is divided into two sections: the first floor presents the Chinese occupation of Tibet and its results, and the second one displays Tibet’s past and hopes for its future.

The small lecture hall is used for showing various historical films on Tibet, lectures and presentations relating to Tibetan history and culture.

Catering to the diverse audience of visitors to Dharamsala, all the textual presentations in the museum are given in three languages: Tibetan, English and Hindi. The Tibet Museum is more than a space for exhibitions, installations and lectures. It also provides a platform for educational activities relating to Tibetan history - through in-house activities and special events, travelling museum kits, catalogues, and various other publications.

We believe that knowing the past gives strength and guidance for the future. We hope our museum will be instrumental in both these aspects.