Majnu ka tilla or New Aruna Nagar Colony, situated on the banks of river Yamuna near Kashmere Gate, is a refugee camp housing Tibetan people. The Tibetan colony was established in 1960.

The colony is divided into two parts; new colony and old colony. Many restaurants and shops are located in the new colony, while in the old colony houses of Tibetan refugees can be seen. Most of the refugees came to this colony in 1959. 

As you enter the narrow lanes of Majnu ka tilla, colorful prayer flags catch one’s eye immediately. Right in the center of the colony a Gompa (a Tibetan monastery) can be found. Monks and devotees offer prayers and rotate prayer wheels inside the monastery.

The place is also thronged by tourists as there are many popular eating joints, which offer local Tibetan food. Many local shops selling Tibetan handicrafts, latest fashion wear and gadgets also attract tourists to the place. Kids can be easily found playing games and hanging out in the narrow lanes of Majnu ka tilla.

The colony also has a park which is adorned with beautiful flags and buntings. The park becomes a playground for children and a resting ground for the elderly.

The place also reflects Tibetan people’s struggle for freedom, as posters and graffiti of ‘Free Tibet’ seen all over the place.

Laja(79), a monk or a bhikkhu, has served in the gompa for around two decades.











Shreen (76) was 19 years old when he came to India as a refugee. Shreen and his father were brought in into the colony by Indian army. He wants to die in his motherland but can’t go back as does not have a visa.




Archit is an intern with Governance Now