McLeod Ganj Monastery & Tibetan Circuit in Dharamshala

Dharamshala is the home of the Tibetan government-in-exile, and this guided circuit takes you through its spiritual and cultural heart — the Dalai Lama's Tsuglagkhang temple and Tibet Museum, the Library of Tibetan Works & Archives, the Norbulingka Institute's art studios, and the Gyuto Monastery, seat of the Karmapa.

Dharamshala is the home of the Tibetan government-in-exile, and this guided circuit takes you through its spiritual and cultural heart. The day centres on the Tsuglagkhang complex — the Dalai Lama's temple, Namgyal Monastery and the moving Tibet Museum — with time to watch monks debate in the courtyard. From there it visits the Library of Tibetan Works & Archives, the Norbulingka Institute where Tibetan thangka painting, wood-carving and statue-making are kept alive in a Japanese-style garden, and the Gyuto Monastery near Sidhbari, seat of the Karmapa and famous for its tantric chanting. A respectful, well-paced cultural day with a guide who can explain what you are seeing; private vehicle included.