Norbulingka Institute, a popular Buddhist learning institute, is located 7.5 km from the district of Macleodganj, Dharamshala. It was renamed after the summer residence of the Dalai Lama at Lhasa was established in 1988.
It was primarily established to preserve the traditions of Tibetan culture, art, and language. Qualified Tibetan refugees take care of the whole complex and maintain the peace and environment of the institute.
Architecture
Norbulingka Institute houses a temple named Deken Tsuklagkhang that is adorned with a 14-foot statue of Lord Buddha. It’s Carved by Norbulinka artists hammering copper sheets. The philosophy of Bhuddha is beautifully crafted on the walls with thangka frescos depicting the lives of Bhuddhas.
The main part of the institute is the Academy of Tibetan Culture, Literary, and Culture Research Center, which was established in 1997. It offers a three-year course of higher education in traditional Tibetan, Chinese, and English. Chonor House and Norling are two guesthouses provided by the institute for students.
Losel Doll Museum
A lovely doll museum displays 150 different dolls decorated with traditional Tibetan customs. Miniature dolls showcase the richness and diversity of Tibet.
Hummingbird cafe
The Norbulingka Institute houses a beautiful cafe in a garden. A private booking facility is also available to the public. It’s open from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. A conference hall for 200 people is a good option for gatherings.
Guided tour
The institute costs Rs 50 for locals and Rs 100 for foreigners to enter. It goes into the ground. You can request a guided tour of the Norbulingka Institute, where a person will explain Tibetan art, culture,, and the thangka paintings on the wall.
How to reach Norbulingka Institute
By Road:
Dharamshala is well connected by road to major cities in Himachal Pradesh and nearby states. You can take a bus or hire a taxi to reach the Norbulingka Institute from the Dharamshala bus stand, which is about 8 kilometers away.
By Train:
The nearest railway station is the Pathankot railway station, which is about 90 km away from Dharamshala. From there, you can take a taxi or bus to reach the Norbulingka Institute.
By Air:
The nearest airport is the Gaggal airport, which is about 20 kilometers away from Dharamshala. From there, you can take a taxi to reach the Norbulingka Institute.