Tibetan Childrens Village Motto Others Before Self
Since 1960, the Tibetan Children’s Village has provided a home and an education to thousands of Tibetan children who’ve arrived in Dharamsala, many orphaned or separated from their parents during their difficult escape across the Himalayas.
Tibetan Children's Village Film Workshop Trailer
In the early days, the plight of the Tibetan refugee children was quite serious with many ill, malnourished and orphaned children arriving in India everyday.
To address this critical need, His Holiness the Dalai Lama, proposed that a center be established in Dharamsala to care for the growing numbers of refugee children.
The first center began with 51 children, and almost immediately, hundreds more began pouring in almost daily. In the beginning, food, medicine, clothing, staff and resources of every kind were stretched to the limit or non-existent.
Tibetan Childrens Village
Fortunately, support from the Government of India and generous donations of the International Aid Community, enabled the original nursery to meet the basic needs of the children and eventually expand into the thriving Tibetan Children’s Villages of today, providing “care, education, and hope for the future...”
As the numbers of refugee children continued to grow, the main TCV in upper Dharamsala expanded to include a school in lower Dharamsala, with many additional villages, residential schools and centers throughout India. TCV and it’s branches have cared for and served over 33,000 children, providing a relevant and meaningful education based on Tibetan cultural heritage, values, and language.
Girl's House at Golpalpur Tibetan Children's Village
A Day in TCV - Tibetan Childrens Village
The children of TCV all live together in self contained family groups, called “Khimtsang,” with two foster parents, and approximately 20 girls, and 20 boys who are raised together as brothers and sisters.
The children have a full day, rising everyday at 6:00 AM, with the older ones helping the younger ones prepare for the day. Prayer and study begin at 7:00 AM, and morning assembly is at 8:45 AM. Classes, adapted from the Montesori methods, and focusing on the inner development of the child, last from 9:00 AM till 4:00 PM.
After class comes a tea break and play time with a variety of sports activities, art activities, and drama and cultural activities to choose from.
Dinnertime is at 6:00 PM, followed by evening prayer and study at 7:00 PM, and finally, lights out at 9:00 PM.
How You Can Help
With a goal of self reliance and independence in mind, a number of handicraft centers and other projects have been established to create a source of income for TCV. Tibetan parents are also beginning to make increased contributions. Even so, the large numbers of children to be cared for, and the continued influx of new refugee children, makes the continued support and assistance of its friends an ongoing necessity.
There are many ways to help: whether sponsoring a child, sending donations for specific projects, or sending warm clothing, all donations are sincerely appreciated.
Dharamsala Cantt. - 176216 Distt. Kangra, H.P. India
Tel: (91) 01892-221348, 220357
Location
Upper TCV, the Tibetan Childrens Village is just a 10 minute walk from Snow Crest Inn Dharamsala.
Snow Crest Inn Dharamsala
After experiencing all the smiles and warmth of the Tibetan Children's Villages, Snow Crest Inn Dharamsala 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.
The Snow Crest Inn's tranquil atmosphere, beautiful decor, spacious accommodations, and knowledgeable and attentive staff, ensure that each guest's stay is pleasant and comfortable.
The Snow Crest Inn is the perfect hotel for a truly memorable holiday experience. Experience all the Dharamsala attractions and things to do in and around this hill station resort and the beautiful Kangra Valley. Whether you're planning a weekend holiday or an extended stay, we look forward to welcoming you to our peaceful inn.
