Explore Dharamshala: Heritage tour and Thangka Art Workshop

This five-day immersive cultural programme offers participants an opportunity to explore the rich cultural landscapes of Dharamshala, the Kangra Valley, and Bir while learning the traditional art of Thangka painting.

Designed as a combination of art practice and heritage exploration, each day includes approximately four hours of guided Thangka art workshop and five to six hours of field visits and cultural experiences.

The journey begins at the Norbulingka Institute, exploring Tibetan art, crafts and cultural traditions, alongside the history of Tibetan heritage in exile. Visits to the Library of Tibetan Works and Archives, Gyuto Monastery and Dolmaling Nunnery introduce participants to Tibetan Buddhist philosophy, monastic education, rituals and knowledge traditions.

The programme then moves into the historical and cultural landscape of Kangra, exploring temples, pilgrimage traditions, sacred landscapes, food culture and local craftsmanship.

Visits to Kangra Fort, Brajeshwari Devi Temple and Kangra Museum offer insights into the region's political history, temple patronage and Kangra miniature painting.

The final day takes participants to Bir and Billing, exploring Tibetan settlements, monasteries, Himalayan landscapes, ecology and contemporary tourism, with an optional paragliding experience.

Throughout the programme, participants receive curated content and interpretation from a heritage expert, helping connect monuments, traditions and communities to their wider historical context.

The programme also includes curated recommendations for local Tibetan and Himachali food, allowing participants to experience the region through its culinary heritage.

The Thangka workshop provides hands-on engagement with Tibetan sacred art, introducing participants to its materials, techniques, symbolism and iconography. Evening experiences may include conversations with monks, artists and local practitioners and documentary screenings.

The programme is an interdisciplinary journey connecting art, history, spirituality, communities, food, landscape and living heritage.