Tsuglagkhang Complex, Dharamshala

Visitor Information

• Famous For: Tibet, Lord Buddha, Culture.
• Entry Fee: Not applicable
• Visiting Time: 5 a.m. to 8 p.m.
• Visiting Duration: Around 1 hr.

Dharamshala is such a hill station that symbolizes peace and integrity. The serenity of this town is a reflection of the various admixtures of art and culture that are existing and flourishing side by side without any hindrance. To top this list of the religious places that are inspiring to everyone. This is a place where Buddhism finds its doors to accept pilgrims and also to spread the wise words of many learned men. The Tsuglagkhang Complex is the private abode of the present Dalai Lama. It is the place of immense significance to every Tibetan as this place narrates the life and culture of Tibetans, the sacrifices made by them and their velour with which they struggle for existence. Thus, every Indian and every Tibetan who visit Dharamshala and also other international tourists stop by the Tsuglagkhang Complex to inhale the purity and humility that is filled in the air of the premises.

Traveller Tips

• Wear comfortable shoes as you will be required to walk uphill and downhill while going to and from the monastery.
• Maintain silence in the premises of the monastery and do not try to enter the restricted zones.
• Photography is not allowed in the monastery especially when the learning of the monks is going. Check when taking pictures is allowed beforehand.
• Please follow all the rules and maintain an orderly behavior.
• Wear decent clothes as this is a place of worship and learning.

Things to Do

• Pray to Lord Buddha and observe the learning culture of the monastery.
• Learn about the lives of the monks by interacting with them when they are free from their duties.
• Spend some time alone in introspection in the peaceful atmosphere.
• Learn from the compassionate Dalai Lama himself when he spreads his enriching and educational teachings. In case you wish to be an audience at any of his preaching, you have to book a hearing at least 2 days before you visit the Tsuglagkhang Complex.
• Learn about the life of the Tibetans, their art and culture, their history and their compassion.
• Cherish having the delicious cakes at the bakery that sells vegetarian food only.

Availability of Guides

Professional guides are not available at the premises of the monastery. You have to hire a professional guide by consulting a travel agency from beforehand if you need a guide to accompany you.

Best Time to Visit

You can visit the monastery any time of the year as per your convenience. Do check if the Dalai Lama himself will be present in the complex for an enriching experience.

How to Reach the Place

A car can be used to reach the Tsuglagkhang Complex easily. If you want to enjoy the scenic beauty by lingering around the beautiful hill station then, you can choose to trek to the site as well.

Interesting Facts and Trivia about Tsuglagkhang Complex

• The Tsuglagkhang Complex is the official residence of the 14^th Dalai Lama who is an emanation of the Buddha of Compassion.
• Within the complex is the Tibet Museum that displays the detailed history of the people of Tibet.
• The Temple is also a major source of attraction there. A 3-metre-high bronze statue of Sakyamuni Buddha lightens up the complex when the sunrays fall on it and makes it spread its pure shimmer all around. The gilded, bronze faces of Padmasambhavna and Avalokiteswara also add on to this bright glow.
• The Mangyal Gompa is also another attraction there. This building is dedicated to the practice of debate. Every now and then, the monks are seen to debate against each other in a note of wisdom and righteousness.
• The Kora, the custom of the Tibetans to walk around a sacred structure in the clockwise direction, is practiced by every Buddhist there. A tourist who is not a Buddhist can also indulge in the sacred practice of Kora while praying to the Almighty.

Nearby Attractions

• Namgyal Monastery
• Chintpurni
• Tibet Museum
• H H Dalai Lama Main Temple
• Dal Lake
• Kareri Lake
• John in the Wilderness Church
• State Museum of Dharamshala

Nearby Restaurants

• Tibet Kitchen
• Lobsang’s Four Season Café
• Snow Lion’s Restaurant
• Morgan’s Place
• Lung Ta
• Nick’s Italian Kitchen
• Jimmy’s Italian Kitchen

The Tsuglagkhang Complex is a place that has the power to transform a person into someone whose heart beats with love and compassion, and, also into a person whose mind longs and indulges in establishing peace and serenity. This place has been one of the topmost places for spreading the enriching message of Buddhism. Be it a Tibetan, an Indian or any other foreign tourist, the Tsuglagkhang Complex should be on everyone’s list.