Jetsunma Tenzin Palmo has a close relationship with the Dalai Lama, the spiritual leader of Tibetan Buddhism. She has known him since she was a young girl and has been a dedicated student of his teachings for many years.

The Dalai Lama has been a strong supporter and mentor to Jetsunma Tenzin Palmo throughout her spiritual journey. She has often sought his guidance and advice on her path as a nun and has received his blessings and encouragement in her pursuit of enlightenment.

In 1964, at the age of 20, Jetsunma Tenzin Palmo traveled to India to meet the Dalai Lama and seek his guidance on becoming a nun. He encouraged her to follow her calling and ordained her as a novice nun in the Tibetan tradition. She then went on to receive full ordination as a bhikkhuni (fully ordained nun) in the Chinese Mahayana tradition in 1973.

Jetsunma Tenzin Palmo has also been a strong advocate for the empowerment of women in Buddhism, and the Dalai Lama has been a vocal supporter of her efforts. In 2000, she organized the first International Conference on Buddhist Nuns in Bodh Gaya, India, which was attended by the Dalai Lama. He gave a keynote speech in which he emphasized the importance of gender equality in Buddhism and encouraged the nuns to take an active role in the spiritual community.

The Dalai Lama has also praised Jetsunma Tenzin Palmo's dedication and determination in her spiritual practice. In an interview, he described her as a "real practitioner" and a "very good example" for other practitioners to follow.

Jetsunma Tenzin Palmo and the Dalai Lama have also collaborated on various projects, such as the creation of a nunnery in India and the establishment of the Dongyu Gatsal Ling Nunnery in Himachal Pradesh, India, where she currently resides.

Overall, the relationship between Jetsunma Tenzin Palmo and the Dalai Lama is one of mutual respect, support, and admiration. They share a deep commitment to the teachings of Tibetan Buddhism and a strong belief in the importance of compassion and equality in the spiritual path.