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Just 4-kms from Dharamsala is Norbulinka. This place has
heavy Japanese influence. The shady paths, wooden bridges, small streams
tiny water falls make this place look like heaven.
The Norbulingka Institute of Tibetan Cul ture was founded by the
Department of Religion and Culture to preserve and promote Tibetan art and
culture in exile. It derives its name from the His Holiness the Dalai
Lama's beautiful summer residence, the Norbulingka (Jewel Garden), set in
parkland two kilometers from 'Lhasa' or Macleod
Ganj.
Fearing for the future of Tibet's cultural heritage, the Seventh Dalai
Lama, Kelsang Gyatso, established institutes of arts and science there in
1754.
Today, with occupied-Tibet undergoing the bleakest period in its history,
the Norbulinka Institute in Dharamsala
has taken the initiative to preserve the roots of Tibetan culture in
exile. When completed, it will include a Centre for Higher Tibetan
Learning.
The Norbulinka Institute and its gardens include a traditional temple and
museum buildings housing thangka paintings, ornately carved woodwork,
carpet weaving and other crafts. The visitor can see craft demonstrations
and buy examples in the institute's boutique.
There is a nunnery close to the institute where women are taught the
advanced levels of Buddhist philosophy. Norbulinka can also be approached
from McLeod Ganj.