Norbulingka Institute of Tibetan Culture

Things to Do in Dharamsala

Norbulingka Institute
Not far from lower Dharamsala, in the green Kangra Valley, is the Norbulingka Institute of Tibetan Culture, founded to preserve, promote, and teach the traditional Tibetan arts, literature, and culture.

Built in the traditional Tibetan style, it’s set in a beautiful garden of meandering paths, flowing streams, small waterfalls, bridges, and koi ponds, while the spectacular Dhualadhar mountains of the outer Himalayas rise impressively in the background.

Guided tours offer the opportunity to observe the creation of colorful thangkas (painted or embroidered wall hangings), wood carvings, statues, metalware, furniture, and traditional garments. The arts are passed on under the supervision of master artists such as Temba Chopel, master painter, and Pemba Dorje, master statue maker, and Choe Phuntsok master wood carver, who learned their crafts in Tibet.

Tibetan Thangkas
• Tibetan Thangkas, meaning “that which can be rolled up,” are traditional scroll paintings which may depict the Buddha, deities, mandalas or scenes from the Buddha's life.

  The thangka painting is done according to a proportional grid relevant to each deity.They are painted in opaque watercolor on cotton fabric, then mounted in traditional Tibetan silk brocade.

  Thangkas are meant to be more than simply two-dimensional images, but seen as 3-dimensional forms or concepts, used for meditation or reflection.

Don’t miss the spectacular views of the surrounding countryside available from the temple rooftop!

In another building, you’ll find a photo exhibit on the creation of the Institute. It documents the traditional Tibetan architectural techniques used in the construction of Norbullingka, including the practice of building without cutting or damaging a single tree or tree branch. This is also a feature of the Tsulagkhang Temple in Mcleod Ganj.

Losel Doll Museum
The Losel Doll Museum features an exhibit of intricately detailed, beautiful dolls illustrating the traditional clothing and daily life of the people in each of the regions of Tibet, plus displays of religious events and festivals.

Norbulingka Gift Shop and Showroom
Replicas of the dolls in the Losel Doll Museum are for sale in the Norbulingka gift shop, along with a variety of handicrafts produced at the Institute. Across from the gift shop, is the showroom where you can place an order for a thangka.

Allow plenty of time for observing the craftsmen at work in the thangka, wood working, and sewing studios. Stroll through the peaceful gardens, and enjoy a taste of Tibet in the cafe. There is also a guesthouse available.

Getting to Norbulingka Institute
Norbulingka is very near Gyato Monastery, temporary residence of HE the 17th Karmapa, Ogyen Trinley Dorje, and just steps away from Nyingtob Ling, "Realm of Courage," an extraordinary home for special needs children.

• Open Monday to Saturday 9 AM to 5:30 PM
• Closed 2nd Saturday of month
• Closed Sundays and Tibetan Holidays

Temple, Doll Museum, and Shop Hours

• Open Daily 9 AM to 5:30 PM

Location: Sidphur, Dharamsala

Phone: 01892/24-6402, 01892/46405



Snow Crest Inn Dharamsala

After a day of experiencing all the Norbulingka Institute has to offer, the Snow Crest Inn offers the ideal retreat.

Retire to the comfort of your cozy room, relax on your private balcony and take in the panoramic view of the stunning Dhauladhar mountains.

Call our friendly representatives:

Naddi +91 94 1808 6608

Visit Dalai Lama Temple
Reserve your Dharamsala, India Hotel Room

Return from Norbulingka Institute to Snow Crest Home

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