Norbulingka Institute, located in Dharamshala, was established by the Dalai Lama in 1988. This institute was founded to preserve Tibetan culture and art forms. Many tourists visit this place to learn about the Tibetan culture through various temples, workshops, books and teachings available inside the institution. The main Norbulingka is in Lhasa. This institute is one of the most significant places as it preserves Tibetan culture and history.
Things To Remember While Travelling To Norbulingka Institute
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Norbulingka Institute is responsible for preserving Tibetan culture and also provides education and employment to Tibetans. It is also a refugee residence for the Tibetans. It has been the residence of the Dalai Lama in the summers. The institute is built between beautiful gardens and ponds which is an amazing experience for tourists. Norbulingka provides many hand-made, crafted and decorated items and materials related to Tibetan culture. Many traditional clothes, home-decoration items, paintings, wood-painting, wood crafting, steel making and many more that are made with ancient tools are available to tourists.
Many workshops are held throughout the year except on Sundays for the tourists to learn these activities. It is a great place for tourists who are interested in galleries, museums, material culture, literature and various art forms. The Norbulingka Institute is open from 9 am – 5 pm and the entry fee is Rs. 50 for tourists and Rs. 20 for Tibetans. Photography is allowed outside near the gardens and shops but is prohibited inside the temple.
Must Read: Bhagsunag Waterfall
Places To Visit Near Norbulingka Institute
Once you are aware of the rich heritage and culture of the Norbulingka Institute, you must not forget to explore the various other places nearby. Here are some of them.
1. Neugal Khad
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Neugal Khad of Palampur City, Himachal Pradesh, is a beautiful destination that provides stunning views of the lake and mountains. It is a famous spot for hiking during the rainy season because they are dried up during the summer season. It is a very popular hill station with a beautiful bridge suspended that gives a perfect view of Dhauladhars to trek.
The path after reaching the viewpoint is full of pebble stone with clear water, providing tourists with a serene view. It is believed that the lake is holy because it is blessed by Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Thousands of people visit this place respecting the traditions.
Best Time To Visit: March to June
Top attractions: saurabh van vihar, Neugal cafe, hiker’s speakeasy
2. Andretta Artists Village
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Andretta is a village in Himachal Pradesh known as an artist’s colony. Many artists who are into theatres, painting, pottery, craft-making and many more reside here. There are many societies formed and workshops held for tourists to experience the making of artwork. Andretta Pottery and Craft Society and Nora Richard’s House are some groups that hold activities and make art. Shobha Singh art gallery is very famous.
This institute was founded by Nora Richards who taught theatre. People from all over the world visit this place to especially experience pottery making and craft working through short courses being held. The village is open from 10 am – 5 pm but for individual activities, there is an entry fee and specific timings which should be looked at on their website before visiting.
Best Time To Visit: September to November
Top Attractions: Baijnath Temple, Sobha Singh Art Gallery, Himalayan Adrenaline
Suggested Read: Nechung Monastery
3. Jakhni Mata Temple
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Jakhni Mata temple is located in Chandpur village, Himachal Pradesh. The temple is famous for its beautiful view as it is located between the mountains. The temple has a steep road so it is a little difficult to hike all the way hence taking a vehicle is recommended. This temple is dedicated to Goddess Devi Latti Jakhni. The temple also has a view of a valley from the top which gives a pleasant experience for the tourists. The temple premises are very quiet and people get to experience divinity.
The Devil inside a temple signifies feminine energy strength and prosperity. Devi is decorated with beautiful ornaments and colourful fabrics. The temple is open from 5 am – 9 pm with no entry fees. The dress code is to wear appropriate clothing respecting the culture. Keeping the premises neat is strictly followed and people who are hiking are advised to keep a check on their physical strength.
Best Time To Visit: march to june
Top Attractions: Chamunda Devi Temple, Tashi Jong Monastery, Neugal Khad
4. Kangra Fort
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Kangra Fort located in Kangra district, Himachal Pradesh, is famous for its history and architectural structure. The fort is built between the Manjhi and Banganga rivers on the Dhauladhar range. It is one of the largest forts of Himachal Pradesh and is considered the oldest fort in India. It is believed that the fort was built during the Mahabharata period and has nearly 8 wells. Locals believe that Muhmad Ghazni 1009 has stored a lot of treasure in one of those wells and people are still waiting for it. The fort has been attacked nearly 50 times and has survived. However, during the earthquake in 1905, it lost some parts of the fort.
The construction of the fort is very interesting with a mixture of history, culture and nature which gives a knowledgeable and amazing experience to the tourists. The gates, lanes, sculptures, carvings and floors built in the fort are an interesting subject for tourists who are enthusiastic about architecture. Reaching the top of the fort gives a beautiful view of mountains all around. The Kangra Fort is open from 6 am – 6 pm with entry fees of Rs. 20 for Indians and Rs. 250 for foreigners.
Best Time To Visit: February to May
Top Attractions: Dal Lake, Masroor rock-cut temple, historical tour
Suggested Read: Valleys In Himachal Pradesh
5. Kareri Lake
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Kareri Lake located on the southern part of Dhauladhar range, located in Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh is a beautiful view of crystal clear fresh water with mountains on the two sides of the river. An adventurous trek through the dense forests with various types of trees and graphite stones. There are also a few temples near the viewpoint. An interesting fact is that the lake is completely frozen during the month of December.
It is one of the most beautiful tourist destinations for an amazing view of nature. Tourists also have the facility of campaigning near the river to have an experience living amidst nature.
Best Time To Visit: May to July
Top Attractions: Divine Indian Music Center, Body Temple, Bhagsu Yoga Institute
6. Tea Garden in Dharamshala
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Tea Gardens located in Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh is situated near the banks of Kangra Valley with a view of the Dhauladhar range. The tea plantation started in the 19th century and it is known for its exceptional medicinal properties and unique flavours. The tea produced here is known as Kangra Tea which is very famous among the tourists who visit here. The tea garden is very beautiful for a casual walk around and exploring various types of plantations. There are guides who explain the history and the types of plantations present.
There are shifts of tours around the tea garden which require prior booking of the slot. There are tea tasting, tea blending and leaves plucking activities which is a fun element for the visitors.
Best Time To Visit: July To September
Top Attractions: Buddhist monasteries, Mcleodganj, baijnath temple.
Further Read: Places To Visit Near Mcleodganj
Now that you have a list of things to keep in mind while planning a trip to Dharamshala , have an amazing experience in the mountains of Himachal Pradesh which you will remember for a lifetime. Visit the Norbulingka Institute of Dharamshala and be familiar with Tibetan culture.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Norbulingka Institute
How much do the workshops cost in Norbulingka Institute?
Most of the workshops are free of cost. Referring to their official website will give you more information.
What is the best time to visit Norbulingka Institute?
The best time to visit Norbulingka Institute is between March to June as the climate is mostly pleasant during this time.
Is room accommodation available near the institute?
Yes, there are plenty of guest houses and resorts around the institute with beautiful views.
Can visitors check out the artwork inside the institute?
Yes, tourists can anytime go and have a look from 9 am - 5 pm, except on Sundays.so plan your trip according to the relevant time period.
Are there any trekking spots near the institute?
There are many trekking spots and base camps near the Norbulingka Institute leading to Dhauladhar range viewpoints.
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