Introduction

At Sidhbari, 18 kms from McLeodganj, the Norbulingka Institute is festooned with prayer flags. As the wind carries forth prayers that are inscribed around the flags’ ‘wind horse’ or lung-ta (the central image), it is believed to transform bad omens into good fortune. It then lifts prayers upward to benefit all beings. The prayer flags promote peace and compassion. They are also thought to bring about strength and wisdom. In 1754, the Seventh Dalai Lama created an institute to preserve Tibet’s arts and sciences within the Norbulingka Palace, the summer residence of the Dalai Lamas, which was located some two kilometres outside of Lhasa, Tibet’s capital. The Norbulingka Palace was constructed according to the foundation proportions of the Bodhisattva of Compassion, known as Avalokiteshvara. The same guiding principle underpins both the philosophy and architecture of the Norbulingka Institute near McLeodganj. It is an exact replica, inclusive of its gardens and decorative detailing of the former palace in Tibet. It houses a Centre for Arts as well. This centre trains artists for thangka painting, statue-making, tailoring, and silk-screen printing. Carpentry, appliqué needlework and woodcarving are also taught to the young. The temple at Norbulinka is an impressively tall one and yet, is a very personal space wherein resides the true gem that is the visual and spiritual heart of the Norbulingka Institute. This is the gilded copper statue of the Shakyamuni Buddha. At once a radiant and serene, it is also a stunning piece of art. This image of the Buddha is the largest of its kind made by the Tibetans in exile and was crafted on-site by the Norbulingka Institute’s artists. The rich reds, blues and greens of the surrounding paintings frame its quiet warmth and resonant strength; these paintings depict the twelve deeds of the Buddha and the fourteen incarnations of the Dalai Lama.

Special Attributes

A 'must-do' for an understanding of the art of Vajrayana Buddhism.

Nuisance

None

Dressing restrictions

Comfortable but conservative

Connectivity

Buses and taxis

Enjoyed by

Art and Buddhism enthusiasts and general interest.

Exposure

Open areas are subject to heavy rain in the monsoons

Avoidable Season

Open through the year

Facilities

Parking, basic eateries

Things Not Allowed

No such restriction

Tip

Watch the artisans at work

Type of site

Art centre