dharamkot studio

Hello:)

Started in 2019, Dharamkot Studio is a Pottery Studio and Community Art Space located in a small village called Dharamkot in the Himalayas of North India.
Located at an altitude of 6900ft, this studio is 2 km from the Mcleodganj hill station, Which is home to Dalai Lama, and known for Tibetan culture, monasteries and nature.
We curate and host Pottery Retreats, Beginner’s Courses & workshops, advanced Workshops and Residency programs for artists and art lovers.

To run these all these programs there are 2 centres in the village. At the first centre, there is a small gallery, studio space and a cafeteria where we host different non residential art workshops. And the centre 2 is a residential studio where we host Pottery Retreats, Courses and Advanced Workshops.

Whether you are a professional potter or a ceramic artist or just an art enthusiast, you must explore different programs offered by the studio.

Pottery Retreat

(5 Days Residential)

This 5 days pottery retreat offers a unique opportunity to step away from the rush of everyday life and immerse yourself in the calming rhythm of creativity. The process of shaping clay is deeply meditative, teaching patience, adaptability, and the joy of exploration. Set in a serene mountain location, this retreat is designed to help you recharge, reconnect with your artistic side, and find inspiration in nature and community. It’s more than just a getaway; it’s a chance to slow down, embrace the art of pottery, and create meaningful connections with like-minded individuals in a peaceful, inspiring environment..

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Workshops

(Residential)

For those passionate about exploring ceramics, we offer 1–5 day workshops centered around wheel-throwing and hand-building techniques. These workshops cater to beginners and anyone looking to gain a solid introduction to pottery. Whether you can join for just one day or a few, you’ll enjoy hands-on sessions with expert guidance from our instructors. Each workshop is designed to provide individual attention, helping you learn the essentials of working with clay, from shaping to finishing.

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Courses

(Residential/Non-Residential)

This 5 weeks course is ideal for those passionate about pottery or ceramics and looking to pursue it as a profession or serious hobby. It is a full-time program that combines technical training with artistic education, guiding students through both foundational and advanced techniques. With a focus on hands-on learning and creative exploration, the course equips students with the skills and knowledge needed to refine their craft and develop their unique artistic style.

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Advanced Ceramic Workshops

(Residential)
Dharamkot Studio invites ceramic artists and potters to take part in Advanced Ceramic Workshops, led by expert artists.
Hosted in the serene Himalayas of North India, these workshops offer a unique opportunity to refine your skills, explore advanced techniques, and deepen your understanding of ceramics in a focused and inspiring environment.
Beyond the studio, guided excursions introduce you to the soulful Tibetan culture, mighty pine forests, and awe-inspiring views of Dhauldhar range, adding another layer of inspiration to your experience.
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Artist Residency Program

(1 to 3 Weeks Residential)

Designed for those seeking time and space to reconnect with their creative practice, the residency provides an ideal environment to recharge, explore, and experiment. Participants will have the chance to immerse themselves in breathtaking mountain landscapes while working within a collaborative and resourceful artistic community.
With flexible options ranging from 1 to 3 weeks, the residency allows artists to customize their stay, creating an experience that aligns with their personal and creative goals.

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Testimonials

Dharamkot Studio
4.8
Based on 370 reviews
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Kriti Sodhi
07:07 01 Jan 25
I recently attended their 5-day pottery retreat and had an unforgettable experience. The retreat offered a perfect balance of instruction, practice, and relaxation. The pottery sessions were both enjoyable and challenging, with exceptional instructors who provided personalized guidance. The staff were warm, attentive, and created a supportive atmosphere.The retreat also featured additional activities like yoga, meditation, sound healing, nature walks, and a city tour, creating a holistic experience that fostered creativity and mindfulness.The location was serene and beautiful, with spacious rooms and stunning views. Overall, it was a rejuvenating experience, and I highly recommend it to anyone seeking creativity, relaxation, and inner peace.
Urvashi Rana
07:26 28 Dec 24
I attended their 5day pottery retreat recently and thoroughly enjoyed every bit of my time spent here.The location is beautiful..the rooms very spacious with incredible views..its relaxing the moment you step into their property. The instructors as well as the staff is like one big community who are always ready to help you with your queries. The schedule is busy but not very packed.... with morning walks, yoga, meditation session also part of everyday activities. It was my first time trying pottery and really have fallen in love with this art..thanks to Dharamkot Studio! 🙂
anju agarwal
02:04 28 Dec 24
Yannick Schmitt
21:16 07 Dec 24
Nice and diverse workshops 🙂
Julia Beck
09:05 07 Dec 24
I didn’t expect to learn that much in only 2 hrs. I absolutely loved it - playful and mindful at the same time. Very knowledgeable and kind and patient instructors. Can highly recommend it!
vinayak sohal
08:19 20 Nov 24
vinayak sohal
08:19 20 Nov 24
Nili Abrahams
08:10 20 Nov 24
Took an amazing 5 day wheel throwing workshop. My instructor Kapil was awesome and very patient with me. I actually managed to make vessel and will be able to continue creating pieces in the future.
Nili Abrahams
08:10 20 Nov 24
Took an amazing 5 day wheel throwing workshop. My instructor Kapil was awesome and very patient with me. I actually managed to make vessel and will be able to continue creating pieces in the future.
Clarisse Garnier
10:14 12 Nov 24
Very warm welcome, good staff. I took part in a 2-hour course: very enriching for a first! I recommend.
Clarisse Garnier
10:14 12 Nov 24
Very warm welcome, good staff. I took part in a 2-hour course: very enriching for a first! I recommend.
Christine Favreau
06:51 12 Nov 24
I only took a 2 hour class in this pottery workshop, without a 5 day retreat, and even though it was short, it was a great experience:The place is magnificent and the teachers are always available to help and explain, a great time, thank you very much!
Christine Favreau
06:51 12 Nov 24
I only took a 2 hour class in this pottery workshop, without a 5 day retreat, and even though it was short, it was a great experience:The place is magnificent and the teachers are always available to help and explain, a great time, thank you very much!
Stéphanie Robin
05:47 12 Nov 24
This place is amazing for adults as well as for kids to open their creativity. Different workshops can be done depending on the time you have in front of you, from 2hours to 5 weeks course. I really recommend this place and the cafe’s food is the cherry on the cake 😉
Stéphanie Robin
05:47 12 Nov 24
This place is amazing for adults as well as for kids to open their creativity. Different workshops can be done depending on the time you have in front of you, from 2hours to 5 weeks course. I really recommend this place and the cafe’s food is the cherry on the cake 😉
Neelam Hemrajani
13:13 27 Oct 24
Excellent teachers ambience food and quietude. The course was designed so well we were taught all that was promised looking forward to the residency programme. The meditation and nature trail sessions were great. Thanks to team Dharamkot studio. Sajan, Pragya, Manish, Neeraj, Sahil For looking after us so well.
Kritika KRIPALANI
15:27 19 Oct 24
Hello team dharamkot studio..This was my first ever pottery retreat ,I am so glad to have experienced such a lovely pottery class ..the most surreal,loving ,meditative,happy,beautiful experience.A big shout out to team dharamkot studio ,never seen so many happy loving people under one roof..u all are amazing bunch of creative people ..thank u for sharing ur knowledge n being patient in imparting the same. U all made me feel at home ,so comfortable n warm ..I will always cherish these beautiful 5 days that I spent with such amazing people n surroundings...u all are doing an amazing job..I wish u best of luck n hope to see u sometime again ❤️ loads of love from Kritika kripalani19/10/2024...
Anchal Srivastava
08:28 18 Oct 24
It's an amazing experience and well guided workshop. Instructor will guide you step by step. Worth doing it.
Vanashree Chowdhury
08:28 18 Oct 24
לילך וישנבסקי
10:59 17 Oct 24
An excellent studio for those who want to experience working with clay. Lovely and kind people.You can also just go to the painter and they will give you paints and papers.The cafe is excellent, everything we tasted was excellent.
Poojitha P.S
10:38 11 Sep 24
I recently attended a 5-day pottery retreat, and the experience exceeded all of my expectations. From the moment I arrived, I was welcomed with such warmth and kindness, creating a nurturing and creative atmosphere.The pottery sessions were both relaxing and challenging, giving us the freedom to explore our creativity while still learning new techniques. Whether you’re a beginner or more advanced, the instructors were incredibly patient and knowledgeable, guiding us through every step of the process.What made this retreat truly special, though, were the additional activities – the city tour, yoga sessions, sound healing, and nature walks – that provided a holistic experience. Each of these moments helped us unwind, reconnect with ourselves, and bond with the other participants. It was the perfect balance between creativity, relaxation, and mindfulness.The location was beautiful and peaceful, and every detail was well thought out. I left feeling recharged, inspired, and full of gratitude for the time spent there. I would highly recommend this retreat to anyone looking for a creative escape combined with inner peace.
Shambhavi Upadhyaya
09:19 10 Jul 24
What a beautiful, beautiful experience. I went to Dharamkot Studio for the week-long painting retreat, not knowing what to expect. I came out of it—5 days later—having experienced something magical.Dharamkot gives you the perfect taste of art, culture, nature, and community in all the right proportions. I learned a variety of local painting styles and techniques from stellar artists, each a master of their own craft. My accommodation was clean and comfortable, and had a spacious shared sit-out that offered spectacular views. Imagine waking up to the smell of pine and fresh air!! There are also ABUNDANT nature trails, markets, and cafes/restaurants to check out (sooo many quirky ones!), which made staying at Dharamkot even more delightful. I met some truly wonderful folks that week and had many, many inspiring conversations with them. Huge kudos to the Dharamkot Studio crew for putting together these retreats so thoughtfully.The time I spent there has genuinely awakened part of my soul. 🙂 I will be holding on to memories I made there for life.
Shilpa Colluru
05:11 30 Jun 24
Dharamkot Studio is a dream and the pottery retreat is one of the best things I signed up for this year. While learning a little about pottery, we went on long walks, attended morning meditations, did a walking tour and ate the best food ever. The location is perfect with not too much noise around and the views are spectacular. The teachers and everyone else at the studio are warm and friendly and ready to help in anyway that they can. I would love to go back again!
Margaret Devlin
11:13 24 Jun 24
I did the week long course/ retreat! I met some wonderful people at the studio! The food was a highlight for me! It was so healthy and very authentic. The teachers were all very knowledgeable & they made the process of learning new techniques efficient and fun 🤩 I felt very inspired & would be interested in coming again! I would recommend to everyone who is interested in making some artistic time for themselves! You will try new techniques, improve your craft, and you’ll want to continue practicing pottery much more!Also the studio retreat land is stunning! The views are incredible & peaceful.
Radhika Goenka
14:06 20 Jun 24
It is the perfect place for a creative retreat. The location, the people, the art, the locals, the calm and the amazing food at the studio! I did the 5 day pottery retreat, and i did not just learn about pottery, but so many other things through this medium of creativity. The sightseeing and other activities included along with the retreat was a break which helped us get familiar with the natural beauty that Dharamkot and Dharamshala has to offer us.Left the place with a content heart, mind and soul. Thank you so much to the entire team at Dharamkot studio, for the enriching experience! 🙂
Siladitya Chakrabarti
06:24 16 Apr 24
Sabishi Shankar
06:19 06 Apr 24
Dharamkot Studio is an amazing studio in a beautiful location. The energy of the studio, including the instructors, the staff, the students is extremely positive and vibrant!Highly recommend for a unique holiday experience
RAM SHARMA
08:22 09 Mar 24
I was here with my wife who for long time wanted to visit and join the classes. This time we made it and she got the experience of hands on. The atmosphere here is awesome to learn and she was really well trained as per her expectations. Would be visiting soon again with kids and will get to learn more next time.
Grey
12:57 29 Feb 24
Yoga Elli
11:43 27 Jan 24
This is a wonderful place run by people who are genuinely passionate about pottery. I learned a lot there, the instructors are very generous with their time and really make sure that people get the most out of their session in a friendly atmosphere. 100% recommended!
Pranoy Kanojia
05:43 18 Oct 23
This place has my heart. I have been here twice in the last two years and whenever I think of taking a break from my life in the city and away from my home studio - Dharamkot studio is always what comes to my mind. I went there first for a three week creative retreat where I was accommodated into their busy daily schedule very warmly. I was already a few courses into pottery by that time, but what I learnt at Dharamkot studio was to let go of my fears of clay and the egotistical and harmful pursuit of perfection. Clay is play and must be approached with surrender and love is what they taught me. The space is shaped by Manoj and Sadaiv and Vivek who themselves are self taught potters and have come a long way to build a space so warm and creative - they have nurtured other amazing talents in that same spirit like the super warm Pragya who is the heart of the place, the crazy and wickedly talented Kapil and the other permanent members, tutors and volunteers in that space.. I owe a big time to them for my journey into pottery and I recommend this space more than any others in the country when you want to just dabble with clay for the first time or to do an artist residency. They are never stern, never stuck up on any particular style, allow you to explore your relationship with clay even if it’s your first encounter with it and show you pathways of how you can truly express with it. They will take care of your pieces and kindly ship them to you in any part of the country once fired. Pottery is generally an expensive practice to learn but what Dharamkot Studios offers in their packages is unmatched and priceless. And mind you they are still less expensive than a lot of other spaces in the country without any pretence. I wish them all my heartiest blessings to be the space they have nurtured and created so well with their heart and that they build one of the foremost artist communities in the country. I consider them a family and it was heartening to see they welcomed me and my friends back to their fold after two years just like one of their own.
sakshi singh
08:08 07 Oct 23
I recently had the pleasure of participating in a 5-day pottery course at Dharamkot studio, and it truly exceeded all my expectations. The staff welcomed me with genuine warmth and friendliness. Their deep knowledge of pottery was readily apparent, and they were always eager to share their expertise, making the learning experience both enjoyable and informative.The course itself was exceptionally well-structured, with each day building upon the skills we had acquired in the previous sessions. The instructors struck the perfect balance between providing guidance and allowing us the creative freedom to explore. This approach not only helped me develop my skills but also made the learning process incredibly rewarding. What truly set this experience apart was the supportive and friendly atmosphere. The instructors' dedication to our success was evident throughout, making it an enjoyable journey of discovery.I can't recommend Dharamkot studio and their courses enough. My 5-day pottery adventure was both educational and fun, and I wholeheartedly encourage everyone to give it a try.
Susmitha Veganosaurus
02:57 09 Jun 23
I highly recommend experiencing Dharamkot Studio’s classes if you’re planning to visit the Dharamkot/McLeod area!I attended two very beautiful pottery making sessions! This was at their smaller studio and it’s a lovely place with lots of natural light and air.First was the hand building class with Pragya and Anjali. They’re both very attentive and gentle teachers, with their own unique styles. So much talent! They’d take turns giving personal attention to each participant so all of us benefited from both of their knowledge.Second session involved working on the pottery wheel. The introductory demonstration was done very nicely by Ananya. Then we all got to sit at our own wheels and begin working.Our teachers were Kapil and Abhinav. They were both kind and patient with all of us. Again with their own styles of teaching, taking turns to personally guide each student.Though the studio has fixed timings and everything, they’re also flexible when necessary. I have to thank Vivek for being so helpful with the process or booking, changing dates, collection of my pieces, etc. I only needed to reach out to him and he coordinated smoothly with everyone involved to make it seamless for us.Special thanks to Abhinav for coming in on their weekly holiday so I could collect my baked+glazed pieces. I truly appreciate it!I’m delighted with all the pottery pieces I made. 🙂

ACTIVITY
Day 1 (Friday) - Today, you will arrive in the serene village of Dharamkot. We recommend you check-in to our Studio latest by 12PM, though checkin time is till 2PM.
After settling-in to your rooms, you will be served lunch at the cafeteria.

At 4 PM, you will start with your first workshop “An Introduction to Pottery”. This workshop will take about 2.5 to 3 hrs.
At night, you will indulge in dinner (possibly around a bonfire depending on weather) and then relax.
Day 2 (Saturday) - 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM: You will begin the day with guided meditation in Dharamkot.
On returning, you will be served a sumptuous breakfast in our cafe.

At around 11:30 AM, you will head to the Studio for your second workshop. Today we will split the group in two batches for personalised attention to all participants. One group will attend the “Hand-building- pinching” workshop and the other will learn the “Intro to Pottery Wheel” workshop. The first workshop will continue till 2:00 PM.
Then you will break for lunch. We recommend that after lunch, you take it some time for yourself and relax.
Post-lunch rest, you will take the second workshop from the above two starting from 4:00 PM to 6:30 PM, depending on what you did in the morning.
Wrap up your dinner at our cafe.
Day 3 (Sunday) - Today is a mix of learning and exploration!

After breakfast, you will attend the fourth workshop (11:00 AM TO 1:30 PM) on “Texturing/Surface Decoration”.
Then after lunch, you will start your local sightseeing tour. Our expert local guides will take you to the Dalai Lama Temple, St. John’s in the Wilderness Church and the Mcleodganj Market. Take time to experience the spiritual energy of Dharamshala.
You can either return to the Studio with our guide in a cab which departs by 6 PM or stay longer and take a taxi back.
Dinner will be served in the evening but you can also explore one of the many restaurants/ bars in Mcleodganj.
Day 4 (Monday) - 9:00 AM TO 10:00 AM: You will begin the day with sound-bath or yoga at one of the many renowned centres in Dharamkot.

Then, head back to the Studio for breakfast and another day of pottery learning. You will now learn the advanced techniques in pottery making in your fifth and sixth art sessions.
We will again split the group in two batches for personalised attention to all participants. One group will attend the “Advanced Hand-building- Slab/coiling method” workshop and the other will learn the “Wheel Throwing/ Shaping Technique” workshop. The first workshop will be scheduled from 11:30 AM to 2:00 PM.
Then you will break for lunch.
Post-lunch, you will take the second workshop from the above two, depending on what you did in the morning. This will start from 4:00 PM and continue till 6:30 PM.
Wrap up your dinner at our cafe. By now you must have made friends with instructors and other participants, so we are sure you have some amazing conversations.
Day 5 (Tuesday) - 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM: Today, you will start your day with a warm cup of tea & Nature Walk to Naddi. The trail meanders through the forests, offering stunning views of the valley below and the distant mountain ranges.

Then, head back to the Studio for breakfast. You will now attend the last and seventh art session on “ surface decoration with Coloured Under-Glazes”. The session will be from 11:30 AM to 2:00 PM.
After lunch, you can spend the rest of the day at leisure. You can pick your favourite thing to do today…finish off your artwork with some guidance from our instructors, head out and take a hike, go shopping, spend a lazy day in a cafe, walk around the flag point for sunset…the choices are endless. We will see you back at the Studio at 7 PM for our farewell dinner.
Day 6 (Wednesday) - Today is the day we bid adieu! After breakfast, it’s time to pack up and gaze at the Dhauladhar range for one last time till we see you again. The check-out is at 11 AM.

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INCLUDEDNOT INCLUDED
5 nights accommodation,

Room cleaning and linen change on Sunday and can also be done upon your request.

Toiletries available on request.

Packaged mineral drinking water for all days.		Airfare

Taxi from / to the airport to/ from studio.
All meals (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner). We serve healthy, vegetarian and delicious Indian meals from organic vegetables sourced locally. Vegan or gluten-free food is also available on request.Alcohol or anything else that you purchase or avail the services of during your stay.
Pottery SessionsCourier charges for shipping Art pieces you create
Half- Day tour to Mcleodganj covering Dalai Lama Temple, St. John’s in the Wilderness Church and the Mcleodganj Market

Vehicle where required.		Bank fee/ Money exchange fee/ Other payment charges

Any other trips/plans that you make during the stay.
Nature walk, Yoga, Meditation/ sound healing SessionLaundry
Art SuppliesAnything not mentioned in the inclusions.

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ACTIVITY
Day 1:
Arrive for check-in before 2 pm, allowing yourself to acclimate to the retreat atmosphere.
Explore your surroundings, connect with fellow participants, and commence your artistic journey with the first session from 4:00 pm to 6:30 pm-Charcoal sketching.
Evening relaxation and dinner.
Day 2:
(9:00 am to 10:00 am) Meditation at Tushita meditation centre
11:30 am: Thangka Painting will start at Studio-1
Workshop will continue till 2:00 pm.
2:00 pm to 4:00 pm - Lunch & Rest
4:00 pm: Go on a small walk with a facilitator for Nature Journaling.
6:00 pm: Reach back to the comfort of your hotel to spend the evening as you desire.
Day 3:
Start your day with Hike to Prayer Flag Point(11:00 am to 1:30 pm)
2:00 pm to 4:00 pm - Lunch & Rest
4:00 to 6:00 pm: Acrylic pouring workshop at Dharamkot Studio- 2.
Day 4:
9:00am to 1:00pm Kangra Painting Workshop at Studio-1
Breakfast will be arranged at the studio.
1:00 to 3:00 pm: lunch and relax
3:00- 6:30 pm guided walk and exploration of Mcleodganj.
Take a beautiful walk around Dalai Lama Temple, Church, Naddi village and explore cafes and shop if you wish.
After that, you can return to stay or get cozy in one of the many cafes of Mcleodganj.
The distance between Mcleodganj and your stay is just 2-3 km from the hotel.
Day 5:
8:30 to 9:30 am: Sound bath session at Buddha Blessing.
11:00 am-1:30 pm- Paint on Pottery workshop at Dharamkot Studio- 1
After this session, your retreat program will be concluded. You’re free to explore and spend your day as you desire.
Day 6:
As the retreat concludes, savor a moment to absorb the scenic beauty of the Dhauladhar ranges. Check-out is at 11 am.

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InclusionsExclusions
Accommodation all daysPick-up & drop from the airport/bus stand
Guide where requiredMeals
All workshops with materialsNothing not mentioned in the inclusions
Art pieces made during the workshops.Bank fee/ Money exchange fee/ Other payment charges
Activities such as Meditation & Sound Bath.
Laundry
Nature Journaling
Nature hike
Internal transfers
Taxis where required

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