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Welcome to Dharamshala, a mystical paradise nestled in the serene Kangra Valley of Himachal Pradesh, India. This enchanting town is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, rich Tibetan culture, and spiritual ambiance. In this blog, we embark on a journey to explore the gems of Dharamshala, offering you a unique and unforgettable experience.

  1. Dharamshala Cricket Stadium:

Cricket enthusiasts can’t miss the opportunity to visit the Dharamshala Cricket Stadium, one of the most picturesque cricket grounds in the world. Set against the backdrop of the snow-clad Dhauladhar Range, this stadium offers a stunning view for spectators. Catch a local match or take a guided tour to learn about the history and significance of this remarkable venue.

  1. Kangra Art Museum:

Delve into the rich artistic heritage of Dharamshala by visiting the Kangra Art Museum. This museum showcases a remarkable collection of traditional and contemporary Tibetan and Kangra Valley artworks. Admire intricate thangka paintings, ancient sculptures, and vibrant textiles that depict the cultural and religious traditions of the region.

  1. Tea Gardens of Dharamshala:

Take a leisurely stroll through the lush tea gardens of Dharamshala, which produce some of the finest Kangra tea. Immerse yourself in the refreshing aroma of tea leaves as you learn about the tea-making process. Engage with local tea planters, sip a cup of freshly brewed tea, and relish the tranquility of these scenic plantations.

  1. Namgyal Monastery:

Visit the Namgyal Monastery, a significant spiritual center and the personal monastery of His Holiness the Dalai Lama. Experience the serene ambiance as you witness monks engaged in prayer, meditation, and philosophical debates. Explore the intricate murals, statues, and scriptures that adorn this sacred space, and gain insights into Tibetan Buddhism.

  1. Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts (TIPA):

Immerse yourself in the rich Tibetan culture at the Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts. Witness mesmerizing traditional music, dance performances, and theatrical plays that showcase the vibrant heritage of Tibet. Engage in workshops to learn about Tibetan arts and crafts, or simply enjoy a cup of authentic Tibetan butter tea while admiring the serene surroundings.

  1. Norbulingka Institute:

For a glimpse into Tibetan art and craftsmanship, visit the Norbulingka Institute. This cultural center is dedicated to preserving traditional Tibetan arts, including thangka painting, wood carving, and metalwork. Explore the beautifully landscaped gardens, visit the workshops, and witness skilled artisans creating intricate masterpieces.

Conclusion:

Dharamshala, with its awe-inspiring beauty, cultural richness, and spiritual aura, beckons travelers to immerse themselves in its hidden treasures. Whether you’re a nature lover, a history enthusiast, or a seeker of inner peace, Dharamshala offers a plethora of unique experiences that will leave you enchanted.

 

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-healing 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 accommodationAirfare
All meals (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner)Alcohol
Pottery SessionsCourier charges for shipping Art pieces you create
Half- Day tour to McleodganjBank fee/ Money exchange fee/ Other payment charges
Nature walk, Yoga/Meditation SessionsLaundry
Art Supplies

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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 pm to 6:30 pm(Charcoal).
Evening relaxation and dinner.
Day 2:
Wake up with leisure.
11:30 am: Your Thangka workshop will start.
Workshop will continue till 2:00 pm.

2:00 PM: Drive to Norbulingka.
Norbulingka is a self-sustaining community, where all members contribute to the larger vision of preserving Tibetan culture through the arts. It is a delight for travelers to see various Tibetan art forms such as paintings and woodwork.

Have lunch at one of the few restaurants at Norbulingka and explore the premises.
5:30 pm drive back to your hotel.
Evening relaxation and dinner.
Day 3:
(8:00 to 9:00 am) Start your day with yoga/meditation (8:00 to 9:00 am)
(11:00 am-1:30 pm) After breakfast, Acrylic pouring workshop at Dharamkot Studio- 2 (7 minutes walk from the hotel).
After lunch at the studio, you’ll meet your guide who’ll take you for a walk and exploration of Mcleodganj.
Take a beautiful walk around Dalai Lama Temple, explore cafes and shop if you wish.
Our guide will be with you till 6 pm.
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 4:

(9:00 to 10:00 am) Start your day with yoga/meditation.
(11:30am to 3:00pm) Kangra Painting workshop

After the session, walk back to your stay, have lunch, and relax for a while.
(5:00- 6:30 pm) Nature hike to the sunset viewpoint with the guide.
Return to the comfort of your stay in the evening and then enjoy the night as you wish.
Day 5:
(8:30 to 9:30 am): Sound healing.
(11:00 am-1:30 pm) After breakfast, Paint on Pottery workshop at Dharamkot Studio- 1 (7 minutes walk from the hotel).
After the session, you’re free to explore and spend your day as you desire.
Indulge in walks, cafe hopping, or shopping.
Day 6:

As the retreat concludes, savor a moment to absorb the scenic beauty of the Dhauladhar ranges. Check-out is at 11 am after a satisfying breakfast.

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InclusionsExclusions
Accommodation all daysPick-up & drop from the airport/bus stand
Lunch on Day 2 & Day 3Meals
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 Yoga, Meditation & Sound Healing
Laundry
Norbulingka Institute Visit and Mcleodganj Walk
Nature hike
Internal transfers
Guide where required.

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