Crossing the Himalayas: A Tibetan Journey into Exile

This episode features Pema Taratsang, a Tibetan refugee who recounts her harrowing journey across the Himalayas at age seven, her life in exile, and her ongoing connection to Tibet. It explores themes of resilience, cultural identity, and the fight for Tibetan freedom. Chapters 00:00 Introduction & powerful opening reflections 01:00 Podcast intro: Tibet Unfiltered and context 02:25 Pema’s early life in Tibet & family background 04:24 Unique family structure & upbringing 06:13 The moment everything changed (leaving Tibet) 09:00 Arrival in Lhasa & preparing for escape 10:47 Crossing begins: river, hunger, and hardship 11:58 Tragedy on the journey (nun & snow mountain events) 15:40 Resilience, fear, and survival as a child 16:36 Arrival in Nepal & refugee experience 17:49 Life in India & schooling under the Dalai Lama 19:12 Reconnecting with family & emotional distance 21:26 Moving to Australia & new life opportunities 25:09 Contact with family & risks under CCP surveillance 27:46 Trauma, reflection & meaning of “home” 30:42 Final thoughts & message about Tibet Producer: Sonam Gyeltshen Host: Geraldine Nordfeldt Location credit: Sonam Choedon Learn more about Australia Tibet Council’s work https://www.atc.org.au/ Support Australia Tibet Council’s work with a donation https://www.atc.org.au/donate/