Place Details:
Located at Sidhpur near Dharamsala, Norbulingka Institute is dedicated to preserving the integrity of Tibetan artistic and literary traditions. The institute provides education, training and employment for Tibetans. The institute was established by Kim Yeshi and Kelsang in 1988. The institute is named after Dalai Lama’s traditional summer residence, Norbulingka, in Lhasa, Tibet.
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The Norbulingka Institute covers more than 7 acres of land and holds Tibetan buildings, which are set amidst its Japanese inspired gardens. The institute has the ‘Seat of Happiness Temple’ and a 4-meter high copper statue of Buddha Sakyamuni, which is one of the largest statues outside Tibet. It is also popular for Dalai Lama’s frescos, 1,173 murals of Buddha and drawings depicting the life of the 14th Dalai Lama. There are workshops of apprentices and artists around the temple in the institute. The high-quality traditional clothing, art objects and furnishing items produced at these workshops are sold at the Norbulingka shop.
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The place is popular for the Losel Doll Museum. The 160 dolls are crafted by monks and display the ritual, regional, theatrical and religious costumes of Tibet. Norbulingka Institute is a must-visit if you want to experience the Tibetan art and music. Check out the college, workshops, library, design studio and cafe. You can buy the most authentic Tibetan souvenirs from the shop in the institute. The institute also operates two guesthouses, Chonor House and Norling Guesthouse, where you can stay and enjoy a relaxing holiday.
Photograph courtesy: Darren & Brad/Creative Commons
BEST TIME TO VISIT DHARAMSALA
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