What is the Dalai Lama's Net Worth? [2024]

The Dalai Lama has a surprisingly huge net worth. His job is to promote peace, compassion and mindfulness but why is he worth so much money? Let’s dive in. 

_{Who is the Dalai Lama?}

So you’ve probably heard and seen the Dalai Lama before but who is he? The Dalai Lama is said to be the reincarnation of a great spiritual leader. The current Dalai Lama is the fourteenth incarnation in history and is revered by Tibetan Buddhists. The literal translation of “Dalai Lama” is “ocean guru” with his primary purpose on earth being to spread positivity, peace and mindfulness. 

_{What does the Dalai Lama do?}

The Dalai Lama is a great spiritual teacher who’s job is to teach compassion and nonviolence. He advocates for human rights and Tibetan autonomy (particularly from the persecution faced by the Chinese government). You have probably seen him on some of your favorite TV shows or even podcasts these days as a majority of his wealth comes from speaking engagements and selling of his books. He has also won a number of accolades including the Nobel Peace Prize in 1989. 

_{What is the Dalai Lama's Net Worth?}

Now, let's get to the juicy stuff: the Dalai Lama's net worth. The Dalai Lama's net worth is estimated to be around $150 million. 

Our first reaction was…what?! Surely that can’t be right, but it is. Although he’s known for his simple and humble lifestyle the Dalai Lama continues to rake in the big bucks. 

_{How does the Dalai Lama make money?}

The Dalai Lama’s wealth is generated primarily from large speaking engagements, book sales, donations and private teachings. 

It is said that all donations to the Dalai Lama re used to support various humanitarian and educational projects. 

Additionally, he has received royalties from his autobiography, "Freedom in Exile," and from the licensing of his image for use in films, advertisements, and other media.

_{Final Thoughts}

To be honest, even we were shocked by the Dalai Lama’s net worth. While we’re not 100% sure about where all of this money goes, it is said that the majority of the Dalai Lama’s wealth goes toward supporting causes that promote peace, education and compassion. 

The Dalai Lama is not said to be motivated by money, so he lives a relatively simple and humble lifestyle.