dharamkot studio

About Dharamkot

On an elevation of 2100 m, Dharamkot is a small hill station in Kangra district in the state of Himachal Pradesh, India. On the crest of a hill above McLeodGanj, (Dalai lama stays here and also place of Tibetan government in exile ), Dharamkot is a spot with wide views of the Kangra Valley and the Dhauladhar ranges. Dharamkot also has the world famous Vipassana meditation centre, Dhamma Shikara and Tushita Meditation Centre which is a centre for the study and practice of Buddhism in the Tibetan Mahayana tradition. Famous for yoga, meditation and Hippies Since 1970s, Dharamkot is also known as second home for Israeli tourists coming to India. Most of the restaurants here serve Israeli dishes.

Weather and climate

  • Spring (Mar–Apr): 10°C–20°C | Pleasant & blooming
  • Summer (May–Jun): 15°C–30°C | Warm but comfortable
  • Monsoon (Jul–Sep): 15°C–25°C | Lush & rainy 
  • Autumn (Oct–Nov): 10°C–25°C | Crisp air, clear skies 
  • Winter (Dec–Feb): 0°C–15°C | Cold, occasional snow  
dharamshala, dharamkot

How to Reach

By Air- Gaggal airport is around 20 km (45-60 minutes) from the studio, direct taxi (INR 1200-1400) to studio will be available.

By Bus-  Overnight journey from Delhi by semi sleeper bus. Nearest bus station is Mcleodganj ( 2km) and Dharmshala (8 km), from the bus station you can take a taxi to the studio.

By Train- Pathankot (85km) is the nearest railway station, from Pathankot you can take public transport to Dharamshala and then taxi to the Studio. Or you can take a taxi from Pathankot to the studio. Amb Andaura is another railway station (95km). 

Things to Do Near Dharamkot Studio – Explore Art, Nature & Spirituality

1. Discover the Art of Pottery at Dharamkot Studio

Dharamkot Studio is a creative space where you can immerse yourself in pottery workshops and ceramic art. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced artist, this studio offers hands-on learning experiences that let you craft unique pieces while enjoying the serene surroundings of Dharamkot, Himachal Pradesh.

2. Embark on the Scenic Triund Trek

For adventure lovers, the Triund Trek is a must-do! This easy-to-moderate trek offers breathtaking views of the Dhauladhar mountain range. The 9-km trail from Dharamkot is perfect for a one-day hike, making it a popular activity near Dharamkot Studio.

3. Visit the Peaceful Bhagsu Waterfall & Bhagsunath Temple

Just a short distance away, you’ll find the Bhagsunath Temple, a sacred Shiva temple that attracts devotees and travelers alike. A short trek from the temple leads to the Bhagsu Waterfall, where you can relax by the cascading waters and take in the beauty of nature.

4. Experience Tibetan Culture at the Dalai Lama Temple Complex

Located in nearby McLeod Ganj, the Dalai Lama Temple Complex (Tsuglagkhang) is a center of Tibetan culture and spirituality. Visitors can witness Buddhist monks in prayer, explore Tibetan artifacts, and even attend public teachings by His Holiness the Dalai Lama.

5. Meditate & Rejuvenate at Tushita Meditation Centre

For those seeking inner peace, Tushita Meditation Centre in Dharamkot offers Buddhist meditation retreats and philosophy courses. It’s an ideal place to disconnect from the outside world and focus on mindfulness.

6. Explore Traditional Tibetan Art at Norbulingka Institute

Visit Norbulingka Institute, a cultural center dedicated to preserving Tibetan art and crafts. Here, you can see artisans creating beautiful thangka paintings, wood carvings, and handwoven textiles.

7. Indulge in Yoga & Ayurveda Retreats

Dharamkot is known for its yoga centers and Ayurvedic healing therapies. Many wellness retreats offer daily yoga classes, Ayurvedic treatments, and detox programs, perfect for rejuvenation.

8. Enjoy Local & International Cuisine at Dharamkot Cafés

Dharamkot is home to some of the best cafés in Himachal, serving everything from authentic Himachali food to vegan, Israeli, and Tibetan cuisines. Popular cafés include:

  • Bodhi Greens (for vegan food)
  • Trek & Dine (great for international dishes)
  • Moonlight Café (a cozy spot with delicious chai)

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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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