The Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts (TIPA) is one of the pioneering cultural institutes established through the vision of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama. The institute was founded on 11th August 1959, registered under the society Act XXI of 1860 Government of India. Based in Dharamsala, Himachal Pradesh (India), the institute aims to preserve and promote Tibetan musical heritage and associated arts.

Classified as one of the key components of the traditional “five minor sciences”(Rik ne Chungwa Nga), dance and music are integral parts of Tibetan culture and tradition. The lessons and training provided at the institute include the comprehensive and undiluted transmission of traditional folk dance from Tibet’s three provinces of Dotoe, Domed and Utsang. The institute also carries forth the lesson and training in the tradition of Ache Lhamo or Tibetan opera. Furthermore, the students are also taught in traditional folk instruments and songs from Tibet’s different region. Highly trained and polished, the professional artistes of the institute serve as cultural ambassadors of Tibetan diaspora.

Effectively functioning as a semi autonomous entity, the academy is presided over by the Department of Region and Culture, Central Tibetan Administration.