Dharamshala is a gorgeous little city in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh, which is famous worldwide for it's lush green mountains and picturesque locations. A large number of Tibetans constitute the population of this city, which only makes it natural that the city is full of breathtaking monastery in quaint corners. These monasteries are major tourist attractions and there's no reason why they shouldn't be. These monasteries are peaceful yet, they make for a bustling tourist destination. Though, one can't really rate them in terms of prettiness, but here are some exceptionally alluring monasteries of Dharamshala.
1) Norbulingka Monastery
This monastery is literally situated in the middle of a pond and the glistening green water just adds to the appeal of this one. More than a monastery, it is a complex which comprises of lush green gardens with little temples, a big temple, a doll museum which exhibits tibetan artistry and a nice cafe where one can taste lip smacking Tibetan delicacies. This institute was made to preserve Tibetan culture and literature which is evident through the extensive man-made gardens and sculptures. One must not miss the opportunity to give this gorgeous institute a visit.
2) Tsuglagkhang Monastery
This complex is actually the residence of The Dalai Lama in India and is open for tourists during the day. It is surrounded by thick forests and is simple to look at. Though, on entering the monastery, one is sure to get enchanted by the magnificent paintings and decorations of the main temple. A lot of Tibetan festivals are held in the complex and one can participate in them if one wishes to. This monastery is also the biggest meditation complex and people from all over the world come here to attain peace of mind. The most surprising part is that it is the simplicity of this place that blows one away.
3) Namgyal Monastery
This monastery was founded by the third Dalai Lama hinself and therefore is considered to be one of the most important Buddhist holy places among others. Special prayers for peace and harmony for Tibet and its government are offered here by monks who were relocated from Tibet to Dharamshala after the Tibetan uprising. The monastery houses 200 monks and the tranquility of this place really gets to you. Praying wheels and a million lit lamps can be spotted here along with the monks who are engaged in daily tasks. The murals and paintings inside the temple depict Buddha's many avatars and his life.
4) Gyuto Monastery
Loacted in Sidhbari, this monastery is the temporary residence of the Karmapa. This area is comparatively quiter and more tranquil than the rest of Dharamshala. The complex of this monastery is huge, overlooks the Dhauladhars and one can find monks meditating here. You can even chat with some of them, like I did, during my visit. One can sit inside the main temple for hours which is much less crowded than the other monasteries which are bustling with tourists. An enormous gold Buddha sculpture sits poised in the monastery with several other smaller ones. Intricate paintings and Tibetan flags adorn this monastery and one can also visit the Naam Art Gallery afterwards or just stay in the village for a calm evening.
1) Norbulingka Monastery
This monastery is literally situated in the middle of a pond and the glistening green water just adds to the appeal of this one. More than a monastery, it is a complex which comprises of lush green gardens with little temples, a big temple, a doll museum which exhibits tibetan artistry and a nice cafe where one can taste lip smacking Tibetan delicacies. This institute was made to preserve Tibetan culture and literature which is evident through the extensive man-made gardens and sculptures. One must not miss the opportunity to give this gorgeous institute a visit.
2) Tsuglagkhang Monastery
This complex is actually the residence of The Dalai Lama in India and is open for tourists during the day. It is surrounded by thick forests and is simple to look at. Though, on entering the monastery, one is sure to get enchanted by the magnificent paintings and decorations of the main temple. A lot of Tibetan festivals are held in the complex and one can participate in them if one wishes to. This monastery is also the biggest meditation complex and people from all over the world come here to attain peace of mind. The most surprising part is that it is the simplicity of this place that blows one away.
3) Namgyal Monastery
This monastery was founded by the third Dalai Lama hinself and therefore is considered to be one of the most important Buddhist holy places among others. Special prayers for peace and harmony for Tibet and its government are offered here by monks who were relocated from Tibet to Dharamshala after the Tibetan uprising. The monastery houses 200 monks and the tranquility of this place really gets to you. Praying wheels and a million lit lamps can be spotted here along with the monks who are engaged in daily tasks. The murals and paintings inside the temple depict Buddha's many avatars and his life.
4) Gyuto Monastery
Loacted in Sidhbari, this monastery is the temporary residence of the Karmapa. This area is comparatively quiter and more tranquil than the rest of Dharamshala. The complex of this monastery is huge, overlooks the Dhauladhars and one can find monks meditating here. You can even chat with some of them, like I did, during my visit. One can sit inside the main temple for hours which is much less crowded than the other monasteries which are bustling with tourists. An enormous gold Buddha sculpture sits poised in the monastery with several other smaller ones. Intricate paintings and Tibetan flags adorn this monastery and one can also visit the Naam Art Gallery afterwards or just stay in the village for a calm evening.
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