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West Bengal

Tibetan Refugee Self Help Centre

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map

January

-0.4 - 15.0 °C

February

0.8 - 16.0 °C

March

3.0 - 20.1 °C

April

5.8 - 22.3 °C

May

7.9 - 22.4 °C

June

10.3 - 22.5 °C

July

11.7 - 21.8 °C

August

12.1 - 22.8 °C

September

10.7 - 23.1 °C

October

7.4 - 22.7 °C

November

3.8 - 21.0 °C

December

1.0 - 17.8 °C

Major Airports :

Bagdogra International Airport (IXB), Bagdogra

Nearest Railway Station :

New Jalpaiguri Junction Railway Station (NJP)

Major Airports :

Bagdogra International Airport (IXB), Bagdogra

A Heaven amidst the Himalayan Hills

An oasis of hope for refugees, the Tibetan Refugee Self-Help Centre is tucked away in the mist-covered hills of Darjeeling. Founded in 1959, this centre honours the courage of the Tibetan people who fled to India during political unrest. Walking through the small streets that lead to this sanctuary, you feel a sense of peace and harmony in the air.

Thousands of Tibetans fled their homeland in 1959 in search of safety in nearby nations, including India, after the uprising against Chinese occupation. His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama sought safety in India, especially in the hill towns of Dharamshala and Darjeeling, where he was one of many Tibetan refugees.

The Tibetan Refugee Self-Help Centre was founded by the Indian government and the local Darjeeling community in response to the growing number of refugees and their need for support and assistance. This centre provided refuge, education, and employment opportunities for Tibetans who had been displaced, acting as a lifeline for them.

The centre became more than just a haven over time; it also became a representation of the Tibetan community's resiliency and optimism. The Tibetans at the centre persevered in the face of hardship, passing down traditional crafts and skills that have been passed down through the generations to preserve their cultural heritage.

Reminding guests of the strength of community, compassion, and solidarity in the face of adversity, the Tibetan Refugee Self-Help Centre is a living tribute to the resilience and fortitude of the Tibetan people today.

Empowering lives, restoring dignity

For those who have fled their country in search of safety and freedom, the Tibetan Refugee Self-Help Centre is more than just a place to stay; it is a source of empowerment and support. Here, against the stunning backdrop of the Himalayas, refugees find purpose and comfort in education, job training, and access to vital healthcare services. The human spirit's tenacity is most visible there, as broken hopes are given new life.

When you enter the centre's central area, you are greeted by the soft hum of looms and the skilful brushstrokes of skilled artisans. The traditional Tibetan handicrafts, which include elaborate carpets, vibrant thangka paintings, and exquisitely carved wooden objects, are situated in between the busy workshops. A monument to the Tibetan people's unwavering commitment to respecting their past while embracing the future, each piece tells a tale of cultural resilience and heritage preservation.

Embracing community, inspiring change

You are welcome to become fully immersed in this intricate web of compassion and culture by conversing with artists, discovering more about their work, and helping them in their endeavours by buying one-of-a-kind handcrafted trinkets. It is an opportunity to participate in history being made and to show support for those whose unwavering perseverance knows no limits.

The spring and fall seasons are the greatest times for you to visit the Tibetan Refugee Self-Help Centre to feel the centre's transformational power. The centre comes alive with activity and enthusiasm as the crisp mountain air invigorates the senses and the hills of Darjeeling burst into bloom. Among the Himalayan peaks, this is a time of hope and renewal, a perfect opportunity to witness the beauty of tenacity in action.

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Beyond the help centre

One of the best things to do at the Tibetan Refugee Self Help Centre is to explore its workshops and see artisans at work. Watch as skilled craftsmen and women create beautiful handcrafted items such as carpets, thangka paintings, and traditional Tibetan handicrafts. You can even try your hand at some of these crafts under the guidance of the artisans, giving you a hands-on experience of Tibetan culture.

Beyond the workshops, there are plenty of attractions to explore in the surrounding area. Just a short distance away lies the vibrant town of Darjeeling, known for its stunning views of the Himalayas and its rich tea culture. Explore the town's bustling markets, visit the famous Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, and sample some of the finest teas in the world.

For those interested in spirituality, a visit to the nearby Ghoom Monastery is a must. This ancient monastery, dating back to the 19th century, offers a peaceful retreat from the chaos of everyday life. Explore the monastery's prayer halls, and soak in the spiritual ambiance that surrounds you.

If you're looking to unwind and relax, the area around the Tibetan Refugee Self Help Centre is dotted with beautiful parks and gardens. Take a leisurely stroll through the lush greenery of the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute and Zoological Park, or visit the peaceful Peace Pagoda, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.