Tenzin Gyatso

Global war from 1939 to 1945.

The People's Liberation Army's advance into Tibet in 1950 ends the period of relative isolation represented in the film and prompts Harrer's departure.

Austrian mountaineer whose experiences in Tibet form the basis of the film.

Austrian mountaineer who escaped with Harrer and shared his journey across the Himalayas to Lhasa.

The city where Harrer lives, works, and meets the young 14th Dalai Lama.

The Himalayan country through which Harrer travels and where he resides from 1946 until 1951.

The mountain system forming the physical setting for Harrer's escape and trek to Lhasa.