Anglo Tibetan Relations – Free Modern History Notes for UPSC 2025

The historical relationship between Britain and Tibet is a fascinating chapter in the annals of international diplomacy, marked by intrigue, exploration, and occasional conflict. Nestled amidst the towering peaks of the Himalayas, Tibet’s remote and mystical landscape captured the imagination of Western explorers and imperial powers alike. From the early encounters between British adventurers and Tibetan monks to the formal diplomatic missions and territorial disputes, the story of Anglo-Tibetan relations is rich with complexity and nuance. Spanning centuries, this relationship has been shaped by a delicate balance of geopolitical interests, cultural exchanges, and strategic alliances.

Background

• In 1903, Colonel Francis Younghusband led the Younghusband Mission, sent by Lord Curzon, the Viceroy of India, to establish British influence in Tibet and counter Russian influence.
• The British expedition, consisting of military forces and diplomats, advanced towards Tibet, leading to skirmishes with Tibetan authorities.
• British forces reached Lhasa, the capital of Tibet, in August 1904, and Younghusband took control of the city.
• The Dalai Lama fled to Mongolia, and the British forced the Tibetans to sign the Treaty of Lhasa in September 1904, recognizing British influence in Tibet and imposing trade regulations.
• A British trade agency was established in Gyantse, and a British trade agent represented the British government in Tibet, but British control remained limited.
• Anglo-Tibetan relations remained strained afterward, with sporadic border clashes and disputes.
• The Chinese Revolution of 1911 weakened Chinese control over Tibet, and Tibet sought independence. The British refrained from direct involvement in Tibetan affairs.
• In the early 20th century, the British supported the Tibetan government financially and diplomatically to maintain influence, but Chinese influence grew.
• The Younghusband Mission aimed to secure British interests and counter Russian influence but had limited long-term impact on Anglo-Tibetan relations. Tibet’s status remained disputed between China and Tibet in the following years.

Treaty of Lhasa

The Treaty of Lhasa, signed in September 1904 between the British and Tibetan authorities, had several important points that decided their relationship. Colonel Francis Younghusband, representing the British government, played a major role in shaping the treaty. Here are the main points:

1. Payment of Money: Tibet agreed to pay Rs 75 lakh (7.5 million rupees) to the British government as compensation. This payment was to be made annually, with Rs 1 lakh per year.
2. Occupation of Chumbi Valley: As security for the compensation, the British Indian government took control of the Chumbi Valley, located between Bhutan and Sikkim. This occupation was to last for 75 years.
3. Respecting Sikkim’s Borders: Tibet promised to respect the border of Sikkim, which was under British protection.
4. Setting up Trade Centers: Trade centers were to be established at Yatung, Gyantse, and Gartok. These places would facilitate trade between British India and Tibet.
5. Control over Foreign Affairs: The treaty gave Great Britain some control over Tibet’s foreign affairs. This meant that Tibet couldn’t make deals for railways, roads, telegraphs, or other projects with any foreign country without British approval.

Later, revisions were made to the treaty under the influence of the Secretary of State and in accordance with the Anglo-Russian Convention of 1907. These changes reduced the compensation to Rs 25 lakh and set a timeline for the British to leave the Chumbi Valley, which happened in January 1908.

The treaty’s significance lies in how it countered Russian influence in Tibet. Despite the Anglo-Russian Convention giving China a say in Tibetan affairs, Lord Curzon’s actions ensured that British influence remained strong in Tibet and diminished Russian influence in the region.

The story of Anglo-Tibetan relations is a testament to the complexities of international diplomacy and the enduring resilience of nations in the face of shifting power dynamics. From the early encounters driven by curiosity and exploration to the formal diplomatic engagements and occasional conflicts, the relationship between Britain and Tibet has evolved over centuries, leaving behind a rich tapestry of experiences and legacies.

Also read about Anglo Nepal Relation.