Dharamsala Tibetan Refuge

Dharamsala – literally translated as “a place for shelter” – is home to the Dalai Lama and the headquarters of his government-in-exile. Overlooking the stunningly beautiful Kangra valley, this tiny dot on India’s landscape is steeped in history. This illustrated book takes readers on an armchair pilgrimage to the home of the Dalai Lama, capturing the sights and events that make Dharamsala special. Buddhist culture comes alive through Dharamsala’s many temples, monasteries and the orange robes of Buddhist monks. Buddhism, its pervading serenity and the patient preparedness of the Tibetans towards returning to their homeland fill the land with a silent grace that leaves travellers with a feeling that they have visited a “chosen land”. Founded by the British in 1846, this hill station seems blessed by Avalokitesvara – the Bodhisattva of Compassion, who is essentially the patron deity of Tibet.