Introduction

About 2-kilometer (1.24 mile) from Library bus terminal, Happy Valley or ‘mini-Tibet’ stretches out in the outskirts of Mussoorie, and is home to about 5000 Tibetan refugees. It was in Mussoorie where the Dalai Lama established the Tibetan government-in-exile after fleeing from the Chinese authorities in Tibet in 1959. Later the government-in-exile moved to Dharamshala in Himachal Pradesh but left behind a strong community of Tibetans who have today become an integral part of the life and culture of Mussoorie. The Buddhist Temple and Tibetans Homes Foundation only testify the Tibetan struggle, and their beautiful culture. These sites are visited by people from across the country and outside.

The Tibetan Homes Foundation was initiated by the Dalai Lama and provides refuge, care and education to Tibetan children who have lost their families. It closes down every January due to school holidays. The Foundation is situated next to the Tibetan Buddhist temple. There are prayer wheels, idols of Buddha and prayer/meditation halls with beautiful carvings on the walls, ceilings and panels. Both the Tibetan Homes Foundation and the temple can be visited any time before sunset. The hustle bustle of Happy Valley, its unique aura and wealth of shops make it quite a cultural hub. It is home to shops selling authentic Tibetan artifacts, woolens, eateries serving traditional food, and smaller temples among others. Almost all tourist spots in Mussoorie can be reached via the Happy Valley and therefore, tourists can visit the place several times on their way to or from other scenic spots.

Special Attributes

A temple and educational centre for refugee Tibetan children.

Nuisance

The site is very peaceful and free of irritants.

Dressing restrictions

Dress in whatever you find comfortable.

Connectivity

Accessible by bus that goes up to the Library bus stop or shared auto-rickshaws called Vikrams to the same place. From there Happy Valley can be reached by foot or cycle-rickshaw.

Enjoyed by

Buddhists, art and culture enthusiasts

Exposure

You need to take a brief walk. The sun can be strong at noon, so carry along your sunshades, sunscreen lotion and a bottle of drinking water.

Avoidable Season

July, August

Facilities

Basic, prepare accordingly

Things Not Allowed

No such restrictions

Tip

Maintain decorum inside the Buddhist temple.

Type of site

Place of Worship