Exploring Dharamsala
As the refuge of all Tibetans and their threatened heritage, Upper Dharamsala or McLeodganj is filled with soothing monasteries frequented by saffron and maroon robed monks. There are museums with photographs and personal histories of the people that made the long journey through the snow to India, and small shops and restaurants catering to both the local Tibetan population and visiting international visitors.Don’t miss the Norbulingka Institute dedicated to the revival and support of the traditional Tibetan arts of thangka painting, wooden and metal sculpture making, and appliqu� thangka work, amongst others. The building that houses the Institute bears all the old-world charm of Tibetan architecture. The complex also includes the Dalai Lama’s Summer Palace, a guesthouse and a cafe.
Also visit the Church of St. John-In-The-Wilderness for its Belgian stained glass windows and the grave of Lord Elgin, an ex-Viceroy of India, who is buried here.
