The Dalai Lama’s motorcade arrived at Iolani Palace around 10 a.m., escorted by three Honolulu Police SWAT cars, and entered through the King Street gate.

The palace’s front entrance was draped with two large flags: the state flag and a kingdom-era flag, which palace officials said is only hung for dignitaries.

The Dalai Lama was greeted on the palace steps by Kippen de Alba Chu, executive director of the Friends of Iolani Palace. Princess Abigail Kawananakoa was on-hand representing the royal family.

Following a private tour, chairs were set up on the palace’s front lanai, where the Dalai Lama and a handful of guests enjoyed beverages in small white teacups.

Just before leaving, the Dalai Lama got back out of his car to greet a small group of tourists that had gathered on the palace’s front lawn.

— Nanea Kalani

— Slideshow by Sophie Cocke