The Dalai Lama on Saturday hit out at China for opposing his proposed trip to Arunachal Pradesh saying it was “politicising the issue too much” and he was going there solely for teaching.

The Tibetan spiritual leader said he was surprised and saddened by China’s criticism of his visit to Tawang monastery in Arunachal. “I was surprised at China’s criticism. If my visit creates problem, I am very sad, that’s all,” Dalai Lama told journalists here, implying that he intends to go ahead with his November 8 visit. “The Chinese government politicises too much wherever I go. Where I go is not political,” he said.

Contending that he was travelling to Arunachal in connection with teaching his beliefs, the Dalai Lama said Tawang held great memories for him as this was his first stop 50 years ago when he was forced to flee Tibet.

India and China were recently engaged in a spat over Dalai Lama’s proposed visit to Arunachal which China claims is disputed territory. China objected to his visit, but India brushed aside the objection saying the Tibetan leader was free to travel anywhere in India. New Delhi, however, has made it clear that the Dalai Lama is not supposed to indulge in political activities or discuss the India-China boundary issues.

The Dalai Lama is scheduled to visit Tawang monastery to deliver spiritual discourses to his followers at the invitation of local leaders.