Contact August 2012

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འབྲེལ་གཏུགས་དུས་དེབ།

www.contactmagazine.net 31 AUGUST 2012

Volume: XIV Issue: 8

contact magazine A Free Monthly Publication For Tibetan Issues & Community Information

Self-Immolation Count Rises Over 50 in August By Paula Canon   The ongoing wave of Tibetan self-immolations worsened this month, with more protests centered in the Ngaba region of Eastern Tibet.   On August 6th, Lobsang Tsultrim, a native of Ngaba, set himself on fire near Kirti Monastery. He died from his injuries the same night.   The following day, August 7th, Dolkar Kyi, mother of two children aged 5 and 2, passed away after selfimmolating near Tsoe Monastery in the Kanlho region of eastern Tibet. There were reports that two monks from Tsoe were arrested later that night by Chinese authorities on charges of sheltering her body inside the monastery.   Just three days later, on August 10th, 24 year-old Choepa, set himself on fire at the small nomadic village of

Lobsang Tsultrim, 21, self-immolated August 6th. Dolkar Kyi, mid-20’s, self-immolated August 7th.

Meuruma personnel minutes, took him

in Ngaba. Chinese security arrived at the scene within doused the flames, and away. He died the same

day, according to Kanyag Tsering, a researcher at the Kirti Monastery. Choepa had been involved with a massive candlelight vigil and

Kalon Tripa Completes One Year in Office leader of the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) since HH the Dalai Lama devolved political power to an elected leadership in 2011. It has been an eventful year, filled with Dr. Lobsang Sangay and fellow Kashag members on 8 August both merit and discouragement, By Tenzin Dharpo and numerous initiatives and projects   The new leadership of the Central have been launched. Tibetan Administration, headed by   Developments in the field of Kalon Tripa (Prime Minister) Dr. education have garnered positive Lobsang Sangay, has completed its reviews. The CTA recently secured first year in office. Dr. Sangay is the a 2 million dollar education grant first Kalon Tripa to act as political from the U.S. government this year.

Continued on page 6

Additionally, a proposal to the Indian Government for transfer of Indianrun Central Schools for Tibetans to the CTA’s administration has been accepted, and the transfer will be complete in 2014.   A strong focus has also been placed on domestic innovation with the introduction of new initiatives within the CTA and the global Tibetan community. Programs like the CTA’s Recruitment Training Program, the Tibet Policy Institute, Tibet Corps, the Tibetan Medicare system, and the recent agreement with the Indian government for a relaxed Registration Certificate (R.C.) extension permit for Tibetans residing in India are all products of the administration’s efforts to promote self-sufficiency in Continued on page 7


about lha & contact magazine

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Institute for Social Work & Education

Social Services-Volunteering-Donations

Mission Statement:

Lha is a resource of education and knowledge that provides meaningful, multi-leveled social and educational services for the benefit of others.

Background:

Lha is a Tibetan grassroots nonprofit based in Dharamsala, India. It is one of the largest social work organizations providing vital resources for Tibetan refugees, the local Indian population, and people from the Himalayan regions. Lha offers free English, French and Chinese classes, cultural exchange programs, IT classes, vocational training, health and environmental

awareness education, distribution of clothes and medicine, a community kitchen, and many other programs and activities.   Through rehabilitation resources and social and educational services, Lha facilitates an easy transition for the Tibetan refugee community to India. On a daily basis, Lha serves over 250 people, hosts between 15 and 25 volunteers and provides up to 20 different services, including on average 50 nutritious meals per day for financially disadvantaged people. For more information about Lha, please visit: www.lhasocialwork.org

Become a Sponsor for Lha’s Soup Kitchen

On 6 July, 2011, Lha opened its community soup kitchen at its new building, Ahimsa House. This is the first soup kitchen in Dharamsala and serves low-cost and nutritious meals to the Tibetan refugee community. 40-50 needy refugees can take advantage of this service every day for a nominal fee of 15 rupees per person, per meal. Meals are completely free for those who cannot afford to pay. The kitchen’s primary objective is to provide refugees with low-cost and nutritious meals while educating them about healthy eating and living. The kitchen will also serve as a space where refugees can receive formal training for the service and resaurant industry.

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Contact magazine is a free monthly publication of Lha Charitable Trust. It contains Tibetan issues, international news and local information that aspires to bring the West and East together in a meaningful and beneficial way. 700 copies are printed per issue and distributed in the greater Dharamsala area and (in the future) in Delhi, Rishikesh, Manali, Goa, and various diplomatic missions to India. Contact keeps readers up-to-date on current issues and events, and provides networking, education and volunteer opportunities, as well as social services information. Contact staff and contributors hope you will enjoy and benefit from our modest efforts to build a community through communication. May peace and love prevail! Guidelines for submission: Contact welcomes submissions of articles, news and photography. We also gladly accept information about upcoming events, volunteer work and special projects. All material intended for publication in Contact must be submitted by the 20th of each month. Your letter may not be printed if it is unsigned, illegible, slanderous or malicious. We reserve the right to edit submissions for spelling, grammar and length. Send your material via email to editor@contactmagazine.net Remember: The articles, stories and other material in Contact represent the views of the authors and not necessarily the views of the Contact editing staff. Make contact: If you would like to contact Contact, call Lobsang Rabsel at 981-615-5523 or the Lha office at Temple Road (ph. 01892-220992). All comments on this issue should be submitted by email to editor@contactmagazine.net Where to find Contact: Contact is available at many places around McLeod Ganj including the Lha office, libraries, travel agencies, hotels, restuarants and shops. August 2012


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འབྲེལ་གཏུགས་དུས་དེབ།

Cultural Exchange Programs at Lha

Contact Magazine Editor

Katie Youtz

Sub-Editor

Tenzin Dharpo

Assistant Editor Tenzin Younten

Layout Design

Tamdin Yangzom

Circulation Manager Lobsang Rabsel

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Lha welcomed three cultural exchange groups to Dharamsala in July - the first from Kentucky, the second from Lifeworks International, and the third from Loyola University in New Orleans, USA. These groups explored the Dharamsala area and took advantage of opportunities to take yoga and Tibetan cooking courses, study Tibetan Buddhism, and visit notable sites around the area. Each of the groups participated in Lha’s Mutual Learning Partner program. Meeting every day with a member of the Tibetan refugee community, they shared their stories and helped their partners with English and other tutoring – all while learning firsthand about their partners’ daily experience of life in exile. Lha thanks each of the July groups for contributing their positive energy and experience to our community. We hope to see many of these new friends again in McLeod Ganj very soon.

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MASSAGE Complete physical and mental relaxation and stress reduction with revitalizing techniques of deep tissue and acupressure with a professional therapist. TIBETAN LANGUAGE CLASS Learn more about the Tibetan people, culture, and Buddhism by learning the Tibetan language! Beginner and intermediate class levels with qualified teachers for individuals and small groups. TIBETAN COOKING CLASS Individuals and small groups can learn to prepare a variety of traditional and modern vegetarian Tibetan foods including momo, thukpa and Tibetan bread with a qualified teacher. TIBETAN ARTS CLASS Learn the basic traditional Tibetan form of painting, drawing, and how to use color for individuals and small groups with a qualified artist. YOGA For sound physical, mental and emotional development we offer Sivananda and Hatha yoga for beginners with a qualified teacher for small groups. Contact Magazine

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• English conversation, Mon – Fri, 4pm – 5pm • English, French, Spanish, German and Chinese teachers & tutors • Computer teachers • Web designers and IT professionals • IT professionals • Journalists, writers & librarians • Environmental professionals

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Monetary donations are extremely helpful and are greatly appreciated, large or small. For information on cost, times and/or registration, please visit the Lha office (MonSat: 9:00am-12:00pm & 1:00-5:00pm) on Temple Road. Email: office@lhasocialwork.org, Phone :(0) 1892-220992.

Lha offers you the opportunity to share your knowledge and skills with the local Tibetan, Indian, and Himalayan communities whilst gaining hands-on experience working with a social work organization. Lha volunteers will develop *All donations and fees from Lha classes friendships, learn about issues facing the and services directly benefit Tibetan refugee community, and become Lha community social work projects. immersed in the fascinating cultures of the people they are serving. 3

August 2012


news & issues

Urgent Press Release from the Kashag   The recent conflict between the

Buddhist and Muslim communities of Myanmar (Burma) has created some misinterpretation and misunderstanding about Tibetans, and led to some unfortunate incidents.   The misunderstanding about Tibetans has arisen mainly from the misuse of a photo of Tibetan monks which appeared in different websites about violence against Muslims in Burma. The photo of Tibetan monks was in fact about the funeral during the devastating earthquake in Yushul in eastern Tibet, in April 2010.   During the earthquake, hundreds of Tibetans died and given the urgency, a mass funeral for the dead was performed by Tibetan monks. So there should not be any misinterpretation and misunderstanding about those photos.

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Various media and social websites have used this 2010 photo in reports on the recent violence in Myanmar

Kalon Tripa, during his recent visit to south India, met Chief Minister of Karnataka, prominent people of the state, and security officials and briefed them about this issue.   The Tibetan Settlement Officers should visit and meet prominent Muslim leaders including religious leaders and members of state assembly to apprise them of the real information on the issue.     Muslim leaders should be in-

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formed about the historically good relationship between Tibetan Muslims and Buddhists, particularly the consistent commitment and advice of His Holiness the Dalai Lama to promote religious harmony during his visits around the world, his pilgrimage to mosques, and his efforts to strengthen ties with Muslim religious leaders. They should be also informed about the sadness expressed by His Holiness the Dalai Lama on the recent violence in Assam. His statement can be viewed on the official website of the CTA.   We want to thank all our Muslim friends and Indian authorities for helping us in clearing the misunderstanding and calm the situation. The Kashag Dharamsala 16 August 2012

August 2012


news & issues

US Congressmen Urge International Conference on Tibet

Congressmen James P. McGovern (D) and Frank R. Wolf (R)

By Katie Youtz   As the number of Tibetan self-

immolations continues to grow, two US Congressmen have issued an open letter to Secretary of State Hilary Clinton urging her to “undertake stronger, more coordinated, visible, international diplomatic steps to reverse the crisis in Tibet.”   James P. McGovern (D) of Massachusetts and Frank R. Wolf (R) of Virginia issued the letter on August 9th as a means of expressing concern over the humanitarian situation in Tibet and the increasing frequency with which these fiery protests are occurring.   In their joint statement, the two congressmen suggest that the US host an international conference on the issue, perhaps as early as September 2012 at the next UN General Assembly meeting.   “We are very aware that US officials regularly discuss Tibet and many other human rights issues with like-minded governments. However, more visible, public, and coordinated diplomacy is necessary for the Chinese government to feel pressure to alter its conduct.”   The letter also proposes that the Contact Magazine

US hold periodic, public meetings with partner nations to establish a contact group for Tibet, much like the “Friends of Syria” group formed earlier this year to address the growing violence between civilian forces and the Syrian government. The creation of such a coalition would facilitate an international dialogue on the situation in Tibet, bringing it into the spotlight at global forums. It would also allow for multilateral coordi-

Congressman Wolf meeting with HH the Dalai Lama in 2009 - Photo from Phayul.com

nation on one of the most sensitive issues individual nations face in their foreign relations with China.   The idea for an international contact group on Tibet is not a new one. In October of 2011, Students for a Free Tibet and the International Tibet Support Network 5

began writing to members of Congress, as well as to parliamentarians from countries around the world, urging them to create a focus group to address the deteriorating situation on the Tibetan plateau. Then, in July 2012, the US State Department issued its annual International Religious Freedom Report, citing China as a nation of “particular concern” and linking repressive government policies to the self-immolations of “at least 12 Tibetans in 2011.”   A subsequent report by the US Congressional-Executive Commission on China, released August 24th, maintained that the increasing wave of self-immolations is “concurrent with increasing Chinese Communist Party and government use of legal measures to repress and control core elements of Tibetan culture, and with the failure of the China-Dalai Lama dialogue process to achieve any sign of progress.”   As August 2012 brought the total count to more than 50 Tibetans who have set themselves on fire since 2009, Congressmen McGovern and Wolf’s letter and the concern it expresses is timely.   “The situation is unambiguously deteriorating and none of these actions comport with the Chinese government’s rhetoric of respect for the rights of ethnic minorities, religious freedom, or a quest for a ‘harmonious society’ in the region,” they asserted.   “As the United States continues to ‘pivot’ towards Asia, it is important that the US demonstrate that it is not deaf to the desperate appeals for help and support emanating from Tibetans.” August 2012


news & issues

Self-Immolation Count Rises Over 50 in August Continued from page 1

demonstration in Meuruma on January 23rd. Chinese security forces had hunted for him, but he managed to elude capture until the day of his protest.   On August 13 two more protesters, identified as Lungtok, a 20 yearold monk from Kirti monastery, and Tashi, a 21 year-old former monk, set themselves on fire. They were protesting Chinese policies near Kirti Monastery on the main road in Ngaba, now referred to as the “Martyr’s street” due to the high number of selfimmolations that have been taken place there. Lungtok died hours later and Tashi passed away the following day.   The dual immolations triggered clashes between local Tibetans and Chinese police, resulting in one protester being beaten to death and a large number severely injured. Police arrested three monks –Lobsang Senge, 19, Tenga Yarphel, 18, and Namse, 18– during a night raid at Gyalron Tsodun Kirti Monastery in

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the Barkham region, and took them to an unknown location.     In memory of those who have self-immolated since 2009, a prayer service was held in Dharamsala at the Tsuglagkhang temple on August 16th, attended by officials of the Central Tibetan Administration. In a statement, the Department of Religion and Culture expressed its “deep condolence and solidarity with all those Tibetans who have sacrificed their lives for the just cause of Tibet.”   Kalon Tripa Doctor Lobsang Sangay renewed his appeal to the international community to pay attention to this surge of Tibetan self-immolations. He called for an international delegation to be sent to Tibet to investigate the causes of these protests and for unrestricted access of international media to the region. Dr Sangay emphasized the need for persistence and forwardthinking, stating that, “as a human being one should remain always

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hopeful –and with so many changes in Arab countries and Aung San Suu Kyi freed, there are reasons to be hopeful.”   Yet on August 28th, two more self-immolations were confirmed in Ngaba. Lobsang Kelsang, an 18 yearold monk from Kirti Monastery, and Damchoe, a 17 year-old former monk, reportedly shouted protests against Chinese government policies before being taken away to a local hospital where both succumbed to their injuries. Damchoe was the younger brother of Tenzin Choedron, the nun from Mamae nunnery in Ngaba who selfimmolated in February of this year.   Chinese authorities have labeled the self-immolators as terrorists, outcasts, criminals, and mentally ill people, and accuse the Dalai Lama of encouraging the burnings. As tension continues to mount and the situation remains unresolved, rights groups suggest that this wave of burnings may continue until the grievances in Tibetan areas are meaningfully addressed.

August 2012


news & issues

Kalon Tripa Completes One Year in Office Continued from page 1

the Tibetan exile community.   The area where the new leadership has put much of its effort but which has, unfortunately, born fewer concrete results is the establishment of a medium of communication between the exile government and its Chinese counterparts. Despite appointing a task force committee for the furtherance of dialogue and angling the majority of the CTA’s media and global outreach operations – both direct and indirect – towards Beijing, the response from China has hardly been encouraging and seems, so far, to be a one-way effort.   On the other hand, the priority of keeping the spot light on the Tibetan issue has been fruitful as the global media has shown genuine interest, put out accurate reports, and published inspired journal articles on the current

Tibetan situation. This year’s extensive foreign visits by the Kalon Tripa and members of the Kashag have influenced resolutions being passed in the US Senate and the European Parliament, and as many as one hundred Japanese parliamentarians issuing a public appeal to China to end repressive policies in Tibet.   The 8th of August 2012 marked the one-year anniversary of Dr. Sangay’s tenure as Kalon Tripa. It began with an audience with the state oracles Gadhong and Tsering Chen-nga, followed by a press conference and later a solidarity prayer ceremony for the people still in Tibet.   “I would like to express my deepest appreciation to the governments and people across the world, particularly our kind host, India, for their support,” the Kalon Tripa stated in an open letter

to the public. “I pray for the long life of His Holiness the Dalai Lama. We are profoundly grateful for his continued presence and guidance. Finally, to my fellow Tibetans in and outside Tibet, I want to reiterate the current Kashag’s commitment to fulfill our cherished goal of freedom for the Tibetan people, and the return of His Holiness the Dalai Lama to Tibet.”   With so many new initiatives in the works, the new administration’s first year has been one of hard work towards future goals, with many important successes. Dr. Sangay’s motto, it seems, is not to let any stone remain unturned. We Tibetans look forward to witnessing the progress of these projects in the years to come.

Seen through the eyes of a foreigner interested inIndia’s Tibetan Buddhism culture, Dharamsala—the home of Dharamsala Celebrates 65thand Independence Day His Holiness the Dalai Lama— always evoked some special, unique By Younten “tremendously and supportandTenzin spiritual feeling in me. Having spent the past kind eight years with  various The 15th of August commemoive” of Tibetans in exile for more studies and readings about Tibet, I was very eager to meet Tirates independence from years. betan India’s people and to become useful tothan their50 community. British rule and its birth as a sov  Following the ceremony, the Kaereign This daywith is observed lon Tripa issues attended Given nation. my experience development andthe myofficial currentIndeall over India, in every school2012 and pendence at the studies, I decided in January that I would Day comecelebrations to McLeod Ganj college, with flag-raising ceremoPolice Ground in Lower Dharamsaand make my long-term dream a reality. Among all organizations that nies, parades,Lha andprovided cultural me events. la,handiest where aand function was organized I contacted, with the most practical infor mation. The Tibetan people never lag in by members of the civilnot society. Soon after our first emails, I felt attached and could wait Lagiving support to the Indian doos (Indian were distribto arrivefull here. Watching videos, reading articles,sweets) and imagining mygovernment, because 21st utedmade against backdrop Tibetan self walking the streetsinofthis McLeod Ganj me afeel alreadyof involved century we know how it is to live and Indian cultural performances with the Tibetan community. without sovereignty. So to mark and speeches by local Indian heads this very special day, every Tiof government. betan in India celebrates   Likewise, McLeod Ganj’sin TCV I spentschool my days visiting the of- it fices of TibetanatNGOs engaged with a holiday and performs cul- Kalon Tripa Dr. Lobsang Sangay raises the Day school, many students wore tural shows to thank the Indian Indian flag on 15 August - Photo from Phayul. traditional dress and performed tragovernment and its citizens for com ditional songs and dances to portray and singing the Indian national an- our rich traditions to the public in their hospitality. themI at a function at the Kashag approach  political, Our Kalon Dr. Lobsang attendance. socialTripa, and human rights issues. received the most welcoming and I am very grateful to Sangay, 65thforSecretariat.   Tibetans celall peopleobserved who were India’s always here my never-ending questions. Thanks to you, I got in on exile a new joyously path to know   Tibetans are “eternally grateIndependence Day at the CTA ebrated the 65th Independence Day you better, not merely from books and teachings, but by getting some real-life experience. Through my ento the Indian headquarters in Dharamsala, rais- ful of the ourWest host to country, concluding gagement, I aim to offer a long-term assistance to Lha government and to do myand best in raise further aware-the the great people of India,” said Dr. ing the Indian national flag in the festivities with many promises, ness about the Tibetan cause. I praise Tibetan culture very much and I admire your determination to fight resfor thanking Ithem presence of senior officials Sangay, olutions, forgames the future. your identity. Given CTA your uniqueness and spiritualism, urge for you being not to change forand the hopes political of the Contact Magazine

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August 2012


news & issues

TYC Announces Indefinite Hunger Strike in New Delhi

By Susie Lee   On 12 August the Tibetan Youth Congress held its 43rd working committee, with 115 members representing 42 regional chapters in attendance. In addition to conducting educational workshops, attendees focused on addressing the most recent developments in the ChinaTibet situation and have declared an indefinite hunger strike campaign to start on 3 September in New Delhi.    Three central executives have confirmed their participation Dhondup Lhadar, Vice President; Penpa Tsering, Organizational Secretary, and Jigme (Sholpa), Cultural Secretary of TYC.   This is the third of a series of hunger strikes organized and lead by TYC. The first took place in April of 2011 in front of the United Nations building in New Delhi and lasted for

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TYC members vote for the launch of the September 3rd hunger strike - Photo from tibetanyouthcongress.org

25 consecutive days. Its primary motivation was to incite stronger interest and participation from the international community in the Tibet-China situation, as well as to increase media coverage of the Tibetan struggle.   The second hunger strike, which lasted 30 days, took place in New York in February 2011. The strike ended after a response from the UN was issued expressing complete sup-

port for the protester’s demands and promising to do more to facilitate political and social change in Tibet.   According to the TYC ‘s General Secretary, Tenzin Chokey, the upcoming hunger strike is intended as an urgent reminder for international parties to act upon their promises and to start taking a proactive stance on the issue.   But, more importantly, the upcoming hunger strike is going to focus on delivering a very timely message to the Tibetan community, urging Tibetans to not give up hope and to persevere in their non-violent struggle, despite the reluctance of international parties to put their support into concrete actions.   “As activists, we don’t have the privilege of being pessimistic,” said Tenzin Chokey. And so the struggle continues.

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August 2012


news & issues

Peace Flags in the Wind Visits Dharamsala

By Katie Youtz   When Miami-based

middle school teacher, Joseph Vasile, set out for Dharamsala he came with a mission. Bringing a passion for teaching to Lha’s conversation classes, he also brought with him “Peace Flags in the Wind,” a largescale art installation begun by Vasile in his own classroom back in the US.   “It began as a way to show youth that although people have different cultures, religions, and backgrounds the one thing they all have in common is a desire for peace. If every person creates their own flag and we string them together, then all their messages are sent out, demonstrating all their different visions of peace in one united piece of art.”   Peace Flags in the Wind has held workshops all over the world, often in disaster-stricken areas like the US Gulf Coast after the 2010 oil spill or Haiti after its devastating earthquake.   In July 2012, more than 500 flags

Joseph Vasile and students from Upper TCV with their peace flags

were created by members of the Dharamsala community, at workshops held at Lha Social Work, Gu Chu Sum, Sarah College, Upper TCV, Yongling School, LIT, and the Tibet Hope Center. Vasile was even granted special permission to visit the Reception Center, where newlyarrived refugees from Tibet contributed their images of peace to the project.   “No two flags have ever been the same,” said Vasile. “People draw what’s around them and in doing so they change the environment of the place in an uplifting, inspiring way.”

In a grand finale, the flags were hung at Tsuglagkang Temple for the celebration of HH the Dalai Lama’s 77th birthday – a great honor for all the participants. “I saw my flag, made with my own bare hands, hanging there with all the others next to the Tibetan National Flag,” said TCV student Samdup. “I was so proud. I wish all those kids and people from other countries who made flags could have been there to see it, and to feel what I felt.”   For Vasile, also, it was a moving experience. “It felt like every one of the 4,000 people who contributed to the exhibit was there. To hear a national anthem that’s illegal in its homeland and for all these people from around the world to have their messages, words, and symbols for peace there… it felt like a universal experience.” For more information or to find out how you can contribute, please visit www.jvasile.net or www. whattheflower.com.

Seen through the of a foreigner interested inSuspended Tibetan Buddhism and culture, Sentence Dharamsala—the home of GueyesKailai Receives Death His Holiness the Dalai Lama—always and evoked some special, unique and spiritual feeling in me. Having spent By Tenzin Younten sought refuge at the US Consulate Zhang and Gu were sentenced on Authe past eight with various studies readings about Tibet, I was verygust eager to with meetZhang Tibetan people nine and   The wife years of former Chongqing in and Chengdu. Among other allegations 20th, receiving to become useful to their community. Communist Party leader Bo Xilai, has against her husband, Wang stated that years in prison. been given a suspended death sentence Gu herself had been involved in a   Gu Kailai has claimed that her acGiven experience with her development issues dispute and mywith current studies,who I decided January that I would after a my Chinese court found guilty business Heywood, tions in were due to2012 a “mental breakof murdering BritishGanj businessman, died in Chongquing under suspicious down” after learning that Heywood come to McLeod and makeNeil my long-term dream a reality. Among all organizations that I contacted, Lha Haywood. The sentence will likely be circumstances. Bo Xilai was stripped had threatened the safety of her son, provided me with the handiest and most practical information. Soon after our first emails, I felt attached and commuted to life in prison after two his office and has been suspended Bo Guagur, as a resultthe of streets an economic could not wait to arrive here. Watchingofvideos, reading articles, and imagining myself walking of years, and could be further reduced for from the Politburo. dispute between the two men. McLeod Ganj made me feel already involved with the Tibetan community. good behavior in custody.   Gu was placed under investigation   Following the verdict, the United   Gu Kailai was born on 15th Novem- for homicide in Heywood’s death. Kingdom announced that it welcomes ber, 1985, and is a Chinese lawyer and On 26 July she was formally charged the investigation and said that they Ibusinesswoman. spent my daysAfter visiting the offices of Tibetan NGOs engaged in political, social and human rights issues. receiving a Mas- with murdering Heywood based on “consistently made clear to the ChiIters received the most welcoming andtheI am very grateful all people whoauthorities were always my to in International Politics fromapproach Pe- what prosecutor claimedtowas “ir- nese thathere theyfor wanted never-ending Thanks to you,refutable I got on and a new path to know you better, not trials merely fromcase books and to king University,questions. she went on to become substantial” evidence. see the in this conform teachings, but by getting some real-life experience. Through my engagement, I aim to offer a long-term assisan accomplished lawyer, founding the Chinese authorities have accused her international human rights standards tance to do my best in the West to raise awareness about the cause. I praise Kailai to lawLha firmand in Beijing. of luring the further victim to a Chongqing and Tibetan for the death penalty not Tibetan to be ap culture In March 2012, Gu became embroiled hotel, getting tohim drunk, and identity. then plied.” very much and I admire your determination fight for your Given your uniqueness and spiriin a national her huspoisoning withofcyanide withand theto keep up your values and spirits, no tualism, I urgescandal you notafter to change for the politicalhim games the West band’s matter deputy, what. Wang Lijung, defected help of her aide, Zhang Xiaojun. Both Contact Magazine

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August 2012


news & issues

Tibetan Headlines 27 AUGUST •  Tulku Tenzin Delek Rinpoche, Younten Gyatso, Achok Phujhung, and Tsewang Dhondup were today awarded with Students for a Free Tibet’s 2012 “Lhakar Award,” honoring individuals who have demonstrated “outstanding courage, innovation and dedication in their service to the Tibetan cause.”

Policy that he would be “ashamed of visiting Lhasa as Tibetans continue to burn.” Dubbed last year by ArtReview as the world’s most powerful artist, the 54 year-old continued, “I think to respect [the Tibetans] is not to touch them, to leave them alone.” Lhasa, Tibet’s capital city

26 AUGUST •  Arvind Iyer’s debut film, Drapchi, starring Tibetan opera singer Namgyal Lhamo, has been selected for the 28th Warsaw International Film Festival in October. The 78minute feature will show in the “World Today” section of the festival.

6 AUGUST •  China has rejected a request by the Indian government to re-open a former consulate in Lhasa. Beijing has instead suggested Chengdu, the capital city of Sichuan Province, as an alternative location, citing concerns over India’s “political motives.”

24 AUGUST •  A special report by the US Congressional-Executive Commission on China states that the continuing Tibetan self-immolations are signs of Beijing’s policy failure in Tibet, and urges the CCP to address the grievances of the Tibetan people.

3 AUGUST •  The 5th Annual International Seminar on Tibetan Studies opened in Beijing, attracting 246 scholars from 21 countries and regions. The conference will focus on economic and social development in Tibet as well as cultural and environmental preservation.

22 AUGUST •  The Tibetan National Sports Association has announced the launch of the first inter-Tibetan school basketball tournament. Students from 20 schools will compete in regional tournaments held at TCV schools around India, with the first match to take place at TCV’s Bylakuppe campus. 20 AUGUST •  Two students – Tashi Tsering, 22, and Choeyang Gonpo, 21 – have each been sentenced to three years in jail following their involvement in a student protest for Tibetan language use in schools in Qinghai Province on 14 March. Both have been convicted on charges of “advocating independence for Tibet.” 17 AUGUST •  Well-known Chinese contemporary artist and social critic, Ai Weiwei, stated in an interview with Foreign Contact Magazine

Chinese artist and social critic Ai Weiwei

•  Radio Free Asia reported that Chinese police forces have used tear gas and live ammunition to disperse a group of almost 1000 Tibetans in Choeten during a protest over a power plant suspected by locals to be a covert mining operation. A man identified as “Nyima” was killed and 6 others have been detained. 13 AUGUST •  Sarah College in Dharamsala celebrated its 14th anniversary with a visit from the Kalon Tripa. Dr. Sangay emphasized the importance of self-confidence and selfreliance in the younger Tibetan generations, and presented awards to the college’s highest achievers. 11 AUGUST •  Tibet celebrated its first Olympic medal as 22-year-old Choeyang Kyi today won a bronze medal in the women’s 20-km race walk at the London Games. ‘‘I’m extremely honored to take part as the first representative of the Tibetans at the Olympic Games and to win a medal,’’ said Choeyang.

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22 year-old Ngawang Norphel

2 AUGUST The CTA held a prayer service in honor of Ngawang Norphel , a Tibetan who self-immolated in Kham on 20 June, at the Tsuglagkang Temple in Dharamsala. Ngawang Norphel succumbed to his injuries on 31 July after 11 days in critical condition. August 2012


news & issues

International Headlines

Hurricane Isaac approaches the US Gulf Coast

15 AUGUST •  India’s PM, Manmohan Singh, has characterized the country’s economic growth as an issue of national security. In his National Day speech marking 65 years since India’s independence from Britain, PM Singh warned that a lack of political consensus is holding back the world’s third-largest economy, keeping millions of Indian citizens in poverty.

29 AUGUST •  Hurricane Isaac hit the New Orleans area in south-eastern Louisiana as a Category 1 hurricane seven years to the day after the region was devastated by Hurricane Katrina in 2005. The US has declared a state of emergency along the Gulf Coast, as residents and disaster relief agencies prepare for the storm’s onslaught. 20 AUGUST •  The government of Myanmar has formally abolished press censorship, marking a turn-around from nearly 50 years of heavy restrictions on public expression. Members of the press are hopeful but remain careful, as laws protecting action against editors and journalists for the content of their writing are still in place. 18 AUGUST •  Wikileaks founder, Julian Assange, has been formally granted asylum in Ecuador after Britain’s threat to break into the Ecuadorian embassy in London to extract him. President Rafael Correa called his decision an issue of the inviolability of embassies and a struggle against “colonialism” and “bullying.” 17 AUGUST •  34 were killed and 78 injured when police fired on a group of striking platinum miners in South Africa. Inquiries are being made into the incident, which was condemned by President Jacob Zuma as “shocking and unacceptable.”

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3 AUGUST •  North Korea has requested immediate food aid from the United Nations after flooding killed 119 people and left tens of thousands homeless. The damage to farmland exacerbates the country’s existing food shortage, ongoing since the mid 1990s. International aid groups are gathering supplies and donations, with the Red Cross already allocating more than $300,000 for flood victims. 2 AUGUST •  Kofi Annan announced that he will resign from his post as UN Special Envoy to Syria at the end of August. Annan criticized the international community and the UN for not supporting his efforts to enforce a ceasefire to the conflict which has now killed over 14,000 people. His departure comes two weeks after the third veto by Russia and China blocking a resolution that would have enforced his mediation efforts with sanctions.

Indian PM Manmohan Singh (Photo by Ricardo Stuckert)

11 AUGUST •  Two earthquakes, measured at magnitudes of 6.4 and 6.3 respectively, have rocked northern Iran leaving nearly 300 dead and 5000 injured. Thousands fled their homes as more than 40 aftershocks hit the area, destroying six villages. The Red Crescent reported that 16,000 people have been given emergency shelter, and rescue efforts are underway. 5 AUGUST •  NASA has landed a nuclear-powered mega-rover, “Curiosity,” on Mars to determine whether the planet’s environment could have been favorable to microbial life. Initial images sent back to Earth show signs of past water near a mountain in the center of Gale Crater, the rover’s target destination. 11

UN Special Envoy to Syria Kofi Annan (Image Source: World Economic Forum)

1 AUGUST •  In its annual report on international religious freedom, the US State Department cited China as one of eight countries where religious freedom is “of particular concern,” and stated that official interference in Tibetan Buddhist traditions had contributed to the self-immolations of at least 12 Tibetans since 2011. China’s Xinhua news agency dismissed the report as being unjustified, calling it “full of prejudice, arrogance, and ignorance.” August 2012


around town

Charities and Organizations

Central Tibetan Administration

The Central Tibetan Administration serves in Dharamsala, India as the government in exile of Tibet. It is democratic with judiciary, legislative, and executive branches. Within the Executive branch there is the Kashag, consisting of the departments of Religion and Culture, Home, Education, Finance, Security, Information and International Relations and Health, and the Kalon Tripa, or Executive Chief, Dr. Lobsang Sangay. WEB: www.tibet.net LOCATION: Dharamsala – 176215 PHONE: 01892-222218 HOURS: Mon-Sat: 9:00 am-5:00 pm EMAIL: kashag@tibet.net

The Office of His Holiness The Dalai Lama (OHHDL)

OHHDL is the personal office of His Holiness the Dalai Lama. The office organizes his schedule, including appointments and travel plans, diplomatic and personal correspondence, and liaises with officials of the Central Tibetan Administration. When His Holiness is in Dharamsala, his schedule includes daily religious practice and studies, meeting with private audiences, and congregating with the Tibetan Kashag and senior Tibetan governmental officials. WEB: www.dalailama.com LOCATION: Thekchen Choeling, McLeod Ganj, Dharamsala -- 176219 PHONE: 01892-221343 / 221879 EMAIL: ohhdl@dalailama.com

Tibetan Youth Congress (TYC)

The Tibetan Youth Congress is an advocacy and political action organization with chapters around the world. The Tibetan Youth Congress organizes cultural exhibitions, educational campaigns and social welfare activities. The organization publishes a series of periodicals and magazines on the Tibetan cause. WEB: www. tibetanyouthcongress.org LOCATION: Tipa Road, McLeod Ganj, Dharamsala -176219 PHONE: 01892-221554 / 221010 EMAIL:info@tibetanyouthcongress.org, gensec@tibetanyouthcongress.org

Tibetan Women’s Association

The Tibetan Women’s Association (TWA) conducts workshops on gender sensitization and domestic violence throughout Tibetan settlements in India, provides Tibetan women with education scholarships, and connects women with international sponsors. WEB: www. tibetanwomen.org LOCATION: Bhagsu Road, McLeod Ganj, Dharamsala – 176219 PHONE: 01892-221527 / 221198 EMAIL: twa@tibetanwomen.org

Tibetan Children’s Village (TCV)

The Tibetans Children’s Villages (TCVs) provides care to Tibetan children by creating a nurturing environment and fostering Tibetan values and culture while delivering a modern education. There is an Upper and Lower residential school in Dharamsala and day school in McLeod Ganj, with other branches throughout India.

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WEB: www.tcv.org.in LOCATION: Dharamsala Cantt.176216 PHONE: 01892-220356 / 221348 EMAIL: headoffice@tcv.org.in

Tibetan Medical & Astro. Institute (Men-Tsee-Khang) Men-Tsee-Khang is a facility for research, training and practice of traditional Tibetan medicine. Patients may seek treatment at Men-TseeKhang for both acute and chronic conditions. The facility provides extensive training and produces traditional pharmaceuticals. WEB: www.men-tsee-khang.org LOCATION: Gangchen Kyishong, Dharamsala – 176215 PHONE: 01892-223222 EMAIL: tmai@men-tsee-khang.org

Tibetan Library (LTWA) (Centre for Tibetan Studies)

The Library of Tibetan Works and Archives has the purpose to restore, protect, preserve, and promote Tibetan culture in all its aspects. They offer courses in Tibetan and Hindi language and Buddhist philosophy and can provide affordable accommodation for those enrolled in two or more courses. WEB: ltwa.net, tibetanlibrary.org LOCATION: Gangchen Kyishong Dharamsala - 176215 PHONE: 01892-222467 / 226181 HOURS: Mon-Sat: 9:00am-1:00pm, 2:005:00pm. Closed Sunday, Closed 2nd and 4th Saturday every month EMAIL: office@ltwa.net

Delek Hospital

Delek Hospital is a small, Tibetan run hospital in Dharamsala. It has 20 inpatient beds, holds outpatient hours from 9am to 12pm Monday through Friday, and can handle most small procedures. Patients are responsible for a 10 Rupees registration fee, although this is waived for those who fall under the poverty line. The hospital has a pharmacy on site. WEB:www.delekhospital.org (Friends of Tibetan Delek Hospital) LOCATION: Kharadanda Road, Dharamsala -176215; Delek Clinic, Bhagsu Road, Dharamsala -176219 PHONE: 01892-222053 / 223381 HOURS: Outpatient, Mon-Fri: 9:00 am – 12:00 pm; Specialist clinics, Mon-Sat: 2:00 pm-4:30 pm; Emergencies, 24 hours daily EMAIL: delek@sancharnet.in

Students for a Free Tibet (SFT)

Students for a Free Tibet is an international nongovernmental organization that promotes the Tibetan cause among the non-Tibetan community. The organization attempts to build international solidarity by advocating for a free Tibet through chapter organizations at Universities around the world. WEB:www.sftindia.org, www.studentsforafreetibet.org LOCATION: Jogiwara RoadMcLeod Ganj, Dharamsala - 176219 District Kangra, Himachal Pradesh, India PHONE: 01892-220589

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Tibetan Centre for Human Rights and Democracy (TCHRD) The Tibetan Centre for Human Rights and Democracy advocates for human rights and provides education on the human rights situation in Tibet. The centre publishes journals and articles, as well as conducts workshops and campaigns. WEB: www.tchrd.org LOCATION: Top Floor, Narthang Building Gangchen Kyishong, Dharamsala - 176215 PHONE: 01892-223363 EMAIL: office@tchrd.org

Gu-Chu-Sum Movement of Tibet

(Ex Political Prisoners Association) Gu-Chu-Sum is a social service organization that provides financial and medical support for ex political prisoners and political activists from Tibet. In order to join Gu-Chu-Sum, one must register as a political prisoner or political activist through the Department of Security. WEB: www.guchusum.org LOCATION: Jogibara Road, McLeod Ganj, Dharamsala -176219 PHONE: 01892-220680 / 220679 EMAIL: guchusum1991@gmail.com

Tong-Len Charitable Trust

Tong-Len’s mission is to help displaced communities in North India achieve a secure and sustainable future. Tong-Len projects include educational and health programs, childhood education and sponsorship, primary and nursery tent schools, and children’s support hostels. Some volunteer opportunities available. WEB: www. tong-len.org LOCATION: Top Floor, Bank Of Baroda Opp. Art Gallery, Kotwali Bazaar, Dharamsala176215 PHONE: 01892-223113 / 223930 EMAIL: jamyang@tong-len.org

Tibet Charity

Tibet Charity provides programs to support the Tibetan community, including English and computer classes, an animal care program, and a variety of medical and educational financial support programs. WEB: www.tibetcharity.in LOCATION: Temple Road, McLeod Ganj, Dharamsala – 176219 PHONE: 01892-221790 / 221877 HOURS: Mon-Fri: 9:00 am – 12:00 pm EMAIL:mail@tibetcharity.in, tibccharity@gmail. com

CHOICE HIV/AIDS Initiative

CHOICE HIV/AIDS Initiative provides HIV/ AIDS education, prevention and care services in Tibetan settlements throughout India. The services provided by CHOICE range from individual counseling to organizational training. CHOICE has a sponsorship program and occasionally utilizes volunteers. WEB: www.choicehivaids.org LOCATION: Arora House, 2nd Floor, Temple Road, Dharamsala PHONE: 01892-220239, 941-831-6896 EMAIL: choicehivaids@gmail.com

August 2012


around town

Charities and Organizations

Kunphen Center for Substance Dependence

Kunphen is a substance abuse center that provides counseling, education, and referral services to members of the Tibetan community who abuse drugs and alcohol. The organization also offers an after-care program that offers vocational skills training and job search assistance for those returning from a rehabilitation program. Kunphen utilizes qualified volunteers to provide counseling to clients. WEB: www.kunphen.org LOCATION: Bhagsu Road, McLeod Ganj, Dharamsala – 176219 PHONE: 01892-220565 EMAIL: kunphen@mail.com

Dharamsala Dog Rescue

Dharamsala Dog Rescue is in urgent need of vet volunteers, animal experts and sponsors. We are in immediate need of sponsors for two paralysed dogs that need a home, wheelchair, monthly food and medicine. Please contact us if you see an injured/sick dog. WEB: www.hnsindia.org LOCATION: Behind the District Court Complex on Chilgari St, Lower Dharamsala PHONE: 981-622-0841 EMAIL: friendsforanimals@gmail.com

Tibetan Centre for Conflict Resolution (TCCR)

Tibetan Centre for Conflict Resolution is a non-profit, educational organisation dedicated to the non-violent management of conflicts in the Tibetan Community and the world as a whole.They work to promote the approaches and tools of non-violent conflict resolution and democratic processes in the Tibetan community in exile and elsewhere. WEB: http://tccr.org LOCATION: Session Road, Gangchen Kyishong, Dharamsala 176215 PHONE: 0189 222 6627 EMAIL: tccroffice@yahoo.com

volunteers. WEB: www.anec.org.in LOCATION: No. 262, 1st floor, Khajanchi -Mohalla, Khunyara Rd, Lower Dharamsala PHONE: 981-632-7158 / 867-990-4767 EMAIL: tcsamkhar@gmail.com, executive_ directoranec@yahoo.com

Nyingtob Ling (‘Realm of Courage’)

Nyingtob Ling supports Tibetan children from disadvantaged families. The children work hard at making delightful handicrafts and paintings. They are so friendly and love to have visitors. WEB: www.nyingtobling.org LOCATION: Near Norbulingka, Sidhpur PHONE: 01892-246366, 981-685-1841 EMAIL: nyingtobling@hotmail.com

Rogpa Baby Care Center

The Rogpa Baby Care Center helps low-income Tibetan families to become self-sufficient by providing free child care for infants so their parents can work. The center needs volunteers to help with art, games, singing and

other tasks including diaper changing. WEB: www.tibetrogpa.org LOCATION: Near Tibetan Ashoka Guest House, Jogiwara Rd., McLeod Ganj, Dharamsala - 176219 PHONE: 981-665-9549 HOURS: Mon-Sat: 8:00 am-12:00 pm or 1:00 pm- 5 :00 pm (located near no.13 on map) EMAIL: rogpa2004@yahoo.com

Clean Upper Dharamsala Project

Founded in 1994 to provide a waste management system in and around McLeod Ganj, the Green Workers, the Handmade Recycled Paper Factory, the Green Shop and the Environmental Education Center are part of the Clean Upper Daramsala Project. Weekly guided tours are offered on Wednesdays at 3 pm. WEB: www.tsodhasa.org LOCATION: Bhagsu Rd., McLeod Ganj, Dharamsala - 176219 PHONE: 01892-221059 EMAIL: office@tsodhasa.org

Seen through the eyes of a foreigner interested in Tibetan Buddhism and New Perspectives culture, Dharamsala—the home of His Holiness the Dalai Lama—always Name: Susie Lee (USA) evoked some special, unique and Job at Lha: Advanced English Teacher spiritual feeling in me. Having spent the past eight years with various   As someone who’s never been to In- town to address the Tibet-China situastudies and readings about Tibet, I was very eager to meet Tibetan people dia before, my arrival in Dharamsala tion. From providing vocational trainand to become useful to their community. was a whirlwind of dynamic emotions ing and educational opportunities to and feelings. The moment I stepped off newly-arrived Tibetan refugees to or-

Given myallexperience withwere development issues and my current studies,culthe bus, of my senses taken ganizing protests and preserving by sounds, sights,2012 smells and tex- tural identity… it is Ganj truly wonderful. Iover decided in January that I would come to McLeod and make  tureslong-term so unfamiliar to me that it seemed   Seeing both foreigners and locals my dream a reality. Among all organizations that I contacted, like I’d landed on a different planet. Inworking side-by-side in an effort Soonto National Democratic Party of Tibet Lha provided me with the handiest and most practical information. The National Democratic Party of Tibet is dia isour starkly rest ofandbring about protect the Tiafter first distinct emails, from I felt the attached could not justice wait toand arrive here. currently the only Tibetan political party. It the world – especially in areas with Tibetan population from human Watching videos, reading articles, and imagining myself walking therights has around 5000 members in 36 regional betan settlements. abuses is an incredible example of chapters throughout the world.The main aim streets of McLeod Ganj made me feel already involved with the Tibetan and objectives of the NDPT are to prepare   Honestly, before my arrival I had a global effort and cross-cultural unity. community. for the establishment of the political party in a very superficial idea of what Tibetan It serves as a much-needed reminder future Tibet, to promote democracy, to educate the Tibetan people about the significance of political parties, and to create awareness among the people about Tibetan issues. WEB: www.ndp4tibet.org LOCATION: Dharamsala–176219 EMAIL: tibetparty4@gmail.com

culture amounts to. Almost imme- that good things still happen in this

After some daysinto in Delhi, diately,spending I was immersed a veryI finally world. arrived to McLeod after an exciting journey on the twisting roads the been Himalayas. The welcomstrong-spirited community that man-  upI to have very fortunate to work ing theirmodern guidance and the introduction to theteacher Tibetanforsociety was agesoftoLha, combine practices with as an English Lha Social traditions Work. My students differacenturies-long stunning experience forand me. culture I knew on my first day thatcome I wasfrom going to despite of all the difficulties places,here but were all share two things a wonderful time. Theand fourhardweeksent I spent filled with an in The Active Nonviolence Education have ships it faces on a continuing basis. I common: they have been impacted interesting mixture of official research, unofficial talks, impressions andby Center (ANEC) ANEC facilitates trainings, workshops was pleasantly surprised to see people the situation in Tibet and are trying feelings, all of which helped me to get to know Tibetans better by finding and open forum discussions on walkmore around dressed in traditional out about the realities theychuface. their best to start fresh and make better nonviolent strategies to help resolve disagreements and differences at all levls of human society. ANEC welcomes volunteers from western countries to participate in informal panel discussions on ideas of regional and global peace and nonviolent strategies. Free lunch and tea for

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bas while holding prayer wheels and lives for themselves. It has truly been malas. a privilege to hear their stories and to I  spent my days visiting the offices of Tibetan NGOs engaged in poI was also astonished by how much develop a new perspective on Tibetan litical, human rights small issues. life I received is beingsocial done and in this seemingly in exile.the most welcoming

approach and I am very grateful to all people who were always here for 13

August 2012


activities & tourist info Upcoming Events

MEDITATION

4-6 Sep: Dalai Lama teachings in Dharamsala 11 Sep: World Meet for Peace and Harmony in New Delhi 12 Sep: Dalai Lama’s Speech at Jamia Millia Islamia University 14-18 Sep: Dalai Lama teachings in Dehradun 1-4 Oct: Dalai Lama Teachings in Dharamsala 14 Oct: Public Talk in Cambridge, MA, USA 15 Oct: Dalai Lama multi-disciplinary forum at MIT, Cambride, USA 16 Oct: Teachings in Cambridge, MA, USA 29-31 Oct: Dalai Lama teachings in Dharamsala

BUDDHIST PHILOSOPHY Library of Tibetan Works & Archives

ART & MUSeums

Kailash Tribal Meditation School

Naam Art Gallery

Taught by Yogi Sivadas WEB: www.yogatribe.org LOCATION: Bhagsu Rd, nr the Green Shop HOURS: Daily, 1:00-2:00pm; Closed Tues PHONE: 981-615-0326 EMAIL: yogisivadas@gmail.com

LOCATION: Main Road Sidhbari Dharamsala PHONE: 9816043708

Tibet Museum

Om Yoga, Meditation & Reiki Centre WEB: www.omyogaindia.com LOCATION: Ketan Lodge, Jogiwara Road PHONE: 980-569-3514 EMAIL: om.yoga@ymail.com

Tibet Photo Exhibit: 50 Years of Struggle and Oppression

LOCATION: Gu-Chu-Sum hall on Jogiwara Rd, next to the Lung-ta Japanese Restaurant HOURS: Mon, Wed & Fri: 2:00pm-5:00pm

Tushita Meditation Center WEB: www.tushita.info LOCATION: Dharamkot HOURS: Mon-Sat: 9:30-11:30am PHONE: 01982-21866 EMAIL: spc@tushita.info

Kangra Art Museum

LOCATION: Near Bus Stand, Kotwali Bazaar PHONE: 01892 224214 HOURS: Tue-Sun: 10:00am-1:00pm & 2:00pm-5:00pm

Vipassana Meditation

WEB: www.ltwa.net/library LOCATION: Gangchen Kyishong, between McLeod Ganj and Lower Dharamsala HOURS: Mon-Sat: 9:00-1:00pm, 2:00-5:00pm PHONE: 921-842-2467

The Tibetan Institute for the Performing Arts (TIPA)

WEB: www.sikhara.dhamma.org LOCATION: Dharamkot HOURS: Mon-Sat: 4:00-5:00pm PHONE: 01982-21309 EMAIL: info@sikhara.dhamma.org

WEB: www.tibetanarts.org LOCATION: Kotwali Bazaar PHONE: 1892-221478 EMAIL: tipadhasa@hotmail.com

Public Audience with HH Karmapa

Form Gallery

WEB: www.kagyuoffice.org LOCATION: Sidhpur HOURS: Wed & Sat: 2:30pm PHONE: 981-631-5336

LOCATION: Jogiwara Rd. near Oasis Cafe PHONE: 8894-060602 HOURS: Daily, 12:00pm-6:00pm

IMPORTANT CONTACTS

BUS SCHEDULE

Ambulance: 01892-102, 222189

* Times and prices may vary. Please check with the bus stand ahead of departure.

Kangra Airport: 01892-232374, 232324 Bhagsu Taxi Union: 01892-221034

Leaving from the McLeod Ganj bus stand, unless otherwise stated: Delhi: Ordinary Bus: 4:45am, 6pm, 6:45pm, 8:15pm and 8:30pm (Rs330) Semi Deluxe Bus: 6pm (Rs355) AC Volvo Semi-Sleeper: 8pm (Rs1035) AC TATA: 8:30pm (Rs840)

Tourism Office: 01892-23107 Rail Booking & Enquiry: 01892-265026 Police Superintendent: 01892-222244

Amritsar: Ordinary Bus: 4:45am (Rs165) *from Dharamsala

Police Contact Information Location: Past St.John’s Church on the road to Dharamshala in Cantt. area. Phone: 221 483

Dehradun: Ordinary Bus: 9pm; AC Deluxe: 5:30pm Manali: Ordinary Bus: 5:40pm, 8:40pm *from Dharamsala Pathankot: Ordinary Bus: 11am, 12:10pm, 12:30pm, 2:10pm, 3:50pm, 5pm(Rs75)

Shimla: Ordinary Bus: 5am, 5:30am, 6am, 8am, noon and 4:55pm (Rs235) *from Dharamsala Semi-Deluxe Bus: 8:22am, 7:45pm and 9:30pm (Rs???) *from Dharamsala FOR BOOKINGS: Location: Ticket stand under McLLo’s, main square Hours: 10am-6pm, daily Phone: 221750 For deluxe buses, book through any travel agency.

TAXIS A private taxi to Lower Dharamsala will cost you Rs 180. Cram into a jeep (from the bus stand), and it’ll only cost you Rs10. Contact Magazine

LOCATION:Near the Main Temple and the Namgyal Monastery gate, McLeod Ganj HOURS: Tue-Sun: 9:00am-5:00pm

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Tibetan Delek Hospital Location: Gangchen Kyishong, between McLeod Ganj and Lower Dharamshala Hours: Outpatient services: 9am-1pm, Mon-Sat; Specialist clinics: 2-4:30pm, Mon-Sat; Emergencies: 24-hrs, daily. phone: 222 053,223 381 Post Office The McLeod Ganj Post Office is located on location: Jogiwara Rd, past Peace Cafe Hours: 9:30am-1pm and 2-5pm, Mon-Fri; 9:30am-noon, Sat. Phone: 221 924 Parcels and money orders can be sent in the mornings only. August 2012


activities & services LANGUAGES Tibetan Language Class

LOCATION: Lha Office, Temple Rd HOURS: Registration from 9-11am, Mon-Fri PHONE: 220 992 See ad on pg 3.

Hindi Classes

LOCATION: Ketan Lodge, Jogiwara Rd, beside the Korean Restaurant PHONE: 981-649-4732

Lotsawa Rinchen Zangpo Program WEB: www.lrztp.blogspot.com/ LOCATION: Rato Chuwar Labrang Phuntsok Gatsel Session Rd, Dharamsala EMAIL: lrztp6@yahoo.in

Hindi Lessons with Sunil

LOCATION: Kunga Guesthouse, Bhagsu Rd and in Dharamkot PHONE: 01892-21942, 941-818-7281 EMAIL: sunilsharma81in@yahoo.co.in

Tibetan Language

LOCATION: The Tibetan Library See Buddhist Philosophy Listing

Hindi Lessons with Kailash

LOCATION: At Bhimsen’s Indian Cooking Class PHONE: 01892-20063, 941-816-1947 HOURS: Daily, 4:00-6:00pm

Tibetan with Pema Youdon

LOCATION: Jogiwara Rd, opposite the post office HOURS: 1:00-4:00pm, or leave a message.

HEALTH SERVICES Dr. Sant Marwah Clinic

LOCATION: In front of Main Temple, McLeod Ganj, Dharamsala HOURS: 9:30am-6:30pm, Closed Monday PHONE: 01892-21106, 981-602-1106 EMAIL: smarwahin@yahoo.com

Dr. Kumar Ayurvedic and Panchkarma WEB: www.kumarayurveda.com LOCATION: Hotel Surya Rd., opposite the the Club House HOURS: 9:00am-2:00pm & 2:30-7:00pm; Emergencies: 24 hrs daily PHONE: 8894492837 EMAIL: SATINDER3737@gmail.com

Maanav Health Clinic

LOCATION: Main Square HOURS: 10:00am-12:30pm and 2:00-5:00pm PHONE: 941-815-5795 EMAIL: maanavcare@yahoo.co.in

Men-Tsee-Khang

LOCATION: Between McLeod Ganj and Lower Dharamshala PHONE: 01892-22618 / 223113 EMAIL: tmai@vsnl.com

Primary Health Centre

LOCATION: Jogiwara Rd, main market HOURS: 9:30am-4pm, Mon-Sat

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Nature Cure Health Club

Indian Cooking Classes

Tibetan Delek Hospital

Lhamo’s Kitchen, Tibetan Cooking Classes

LOCATION: Jogiwara Rd, next to Tibetan Ashoka Guest House-Map #10 HOURS: 9:30am-6:30pm PHONE: : 941-813-0119 EMAIL: mahinder_m@hotmail.com

LOCATION: Gangchen Kyishong, between McLeod Ganj and Lower Dharamsala PHONE: 01892-22053 / 223381 HOURS: Outpatient services, Mon-Sat: 9:00am-1:00pm; Specialist clinics, Mon-Sat: 2:00-4:30pm; Emergencies: 24 hrs daily

Ayuskam Health Care

WEB: www.ayuskama.com LOCATION: First floor Hotel Anand Place, near Bhagsu taxi stand and near Tibetan Hotel Ashoka Guest House McLeod Ganj PHONE: 980-592-8923, 973-621-1210

YOGA & REIKI Himalayan Iyengar Yoga Centre

WEB: www.hiyogacentre.com LOCATION: Dharamkot, on the footpath to Bhagsu EMAIL: info@hiyogacentre.com

Kailash Tribal School,

(Yoga Alliance USA Recognized) WEB: www.yogatribe.org LOCATION: Bhagsu Rd, near the Green Shop HOURS: Daily, 1:30 pm; Closed on Tues PHONE: 981-615-0326 EMAIL: yogisivadas@gmail.com

Om Yoga, Meditation & Reiki Centre LOCATION: Ketan Lodge, behind Akash Hotel, on Jogiwara Rd - Map #11 HOURS: 8:00am-6:00pm PHONE: 980-569-3514

Rishi Yoga Centre with Yogi Shivam WEB: www.siddharthayogacentre.org LOCATION: Himalyan Paradise Hotel Jogiwara Rd - Map #15 HOURS: 7:00-8:00am & 6:15-7:15pm PHONE: 981-656-5138 EMAIL: yogi_shivam@yahoo.com

Siddhartha Yoga Centre with Yogi Shivam WEB: www.siddharthayogacentre.org LOCATION: Upper Bagsu Nag HOURS: 7:00-8:00am & 6:15-7:15pm PHONE: 981-656-5138 EMAIL: yogi_shivam@yahoo.com

Universal Yoga with Vijay

Recognized by Yoga Alliance WEB: www.vijaypoweryoga.com LOCATION: Room #5, Yongling School Building, Jogiwara Rd HOURS: 9:00 -11:10am & 2:00 - 4:00Pm EMAIL: vijayamar@yahoo.com

COOKING Lha Tibetan Cooking School LOCATION: Lha Office, Temple Rd HOURS: Registration, 9:00-11:00am PHONE: 01892-20992

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LOCATION:Jogiwara Rd, next to Tibetan Ashoka Guesthouse HOURS: 10:00am-6:00pm PHONE: 941-813-0119 EMAIL: mahinder_m@hotmail.com

LOCATION: Bhagsu Rd, near the Green Shop HOURS: 8:00am-9:00pm PHONE: 981-646-8719

Nisha’s Indian Cooking Class

LOCATION: Hotel Lotus Leaf, Jogiwara Rd HOURS: 4:00-6:00pm EMAIL: nisha@indiancookingcourse.com

Sangye’s Kitchen Traditional Tibetan Cooking Classes

LOCATION: Lung-ta Restaurant, below the Tashi Choeling Monastery on Jogiwara Rd HOURS:10:00am-12:00pm & 4:00-6:00pm PHONE: 981-616-4540 EMAIL: sangyla_tashi@yahoo.co.in

MASSAGE Angel Massage Centre

LOCATION: Hotel Misty Woods, 44/3 Jogiwara Rd (near Chocolate Log)- Map #1 PHONE: 973-608-3627, 973-608-3554 EMAIL: delima1959@yahoo.com

Lha Healing Oil Massage Courses & Treatment LOCATION: Lha Office, Temple Rd PHONE: 01892-20992 HOURS: Registration, 9:00am-11:00am

Om Yoga Center

WEB: www.omyogaindia.com LOCATION: Ketan Lodge, Jogiwara Rd. HOURS: Daily, 8:00-9:30pm & 4:00-5:30PM PHONE: 980-569-3514 EMAIL: om.yoga@ymail.com

Nature Cure Health Club

Shiatsu massage LOCATION: Near Tibetan Ashoka,Jogiwara Rd PHONE: 941-813-0119 EMAIL: mahinder_m@hotmail.com

Shiatsu & Swedish Massage LOCATION: Lha Office, Temple Rd PHONE: 01892-20992

Synergy Ayuredic Massage Center LOCATION: Near Tibetan Ashoka, Jogiwara Rd PHONE: 941 80 8488 EMAIL: mcleodganj@gmail.com

Traditional Thai Massage

LOCATION: Opposite the Govt. Tourist Information Centre, Hotel Surya Rd PHONE: 981-633-9199 EMAIL: jite02@yahoo.com

August 2012


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Visitor Services Offered at Lha TIBETAN LANGUAGE CLASS

Learn more about the Tibetan people and explore the unique Tibetan culture including Buddhism by learning the Tibetan language! Learn reading, writing, speaking, and grammar. Beginner and intermediateclass levels with qualified teachers for interested individuals and small groups.

TIBETAN COOKING CLASS

Learn a variety of traditional and modern vegetarian Tibetan foods including momo, thukpa and Tibetan bread from qualified teachers. Learn to prepare and then taste the delicious and yummy Tibetan foods for individual or small groups.

TIBETAN ARTS CLASS

Learn the basic traditional Tibetan form of painting including drawing and how to use color for interested individuals and small groups with a professional and qualified artist.

TIBETAN HOME-STAY

Lha arranges short or long term home-stays with refugee families giving visitors the chance to experience the Tibetan life style. Home-stays provide a valuable opportunity for visitors and locals to connect and learn about each other’s cultures.

YOGA

For sound physical, mental and emotional development we offer Sivananda and Hatha yoga for beginners with a qualified teacher for small groups.

MASSAGE

Complete physical and mental relaxation and stress reduction with re-vitalizing techniques of deep tissue and acupressure with a professional therapists. Contact: Lha Office on Temple Road, opposite State Bank of India. Phone: 01892-220992 Email: office@lhasocialwork.org

FOR SALE!

1992 Royal Enfield Motorcycle

Price Negotiable • Good Condition, 350cc • Good for Long Distance Travel Registered under Karnataka State, S.India

If interested, please contact Ngawang at 981-668-9222

COULD BE

YOUR

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All proceeds will benefit Lha Social Work projects! Contact Magazine

THIS SPACE

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August 2012


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GOING TO AMRITSAR?

Norbulingka

Come see us at Tourist Guest House British colonial mansion turned into beautiful guest house that tourists have been flocking to for a taste of the Raj life style. We have Internet connection at Rs 1/min.

Where nature flourishes and tranquility prevails

Preserving Tibetan Culture

Comfortable stay with home cooked meals. Dorm bed Rs 125, Single/dble w. bath Rs 175-350. Walking distance from train and bus. Private parking. Recommended in travel guide ‘Lets Go-2000’.

LIVE ART FINE SHOPPING

Contact Harindar at : 0183-2553830 / 09356003219 E-mail : bubblesgoolry@yahoo.com

ART GALLERY DOLL MUSEUM SERENE GARDEN CAFE INNOVATIVE CRAFT AND DESIGN Guided Tour, Round Trip Sharing Ride Minimum Four People Required Rs. 150 per person from McLeod Ganj Tickets Available at Chonor Guest House Contact: Chonor Reception #01892-221 468/01892-221006 Trisong Dorjee #9816523556 Website: www.norbulingka.org

W W W. T H E S A N C T U A R Y. I N

Creative Workshops & Sessions in

SEVEN HILLS OF DOKEBI KOREAN RESTAURANT

• Self-Exploration • Yoga • Massage • Dance • Meditation • Drama • Family Constellations & More...

Pure Korean Food Available For both Veg & Non Veg We serve special Kimbab (Sushi) For every day veg, tuna, avocado, And many other naturally Korean foods Kimchi, Bulgogi, Very Clean & Delicious!!! Also good Music Classics, Jazz, Pop, Korean & we have nice fireplace

IN DHARAMKOT

+91 - 98056 61222 Dr.YourMobile Shop Communication Partner

Open 10:00am ~ Closed 10:00pm Located on Jogiwara Road-Map #11 Mobile: 98055 83234 Near the Japanese Restaurant Contact Magazine

Mobile Sales, Mobile Repair, Sim Cards, Purchase and Recharge Phone Service

Black Magic Building (underground), Jogiwara Road, McLeod Ganj Phone: 9857011101 17

August 2012


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Dream Holidays Travels and Tours Ground Floor of Asian Plaza Hotel, Main Square / Bus Stand, McLeod Ganj - Map #18 (3rd office inside Mall)

“let us be your dream holiday”

+Worldwide Air Travel Arrangements - Lowest Fares Guaranteed +Discounted domestic air tickets +AC & Non-AC cars & jeeps for short & long tours, airport & train station transfers +Rail tickets and hotel reservations + Short and long trekking tours phone: 0091 1892-221 469 / 220 790, mobile: 981 608 7878 / 941 809 7149 email: vineet_dream@yahoo.com, web: www.dreamholidayindia.com

Jimmy’s Italian Kitchen

-has opened a new branch-

Main market, just opposite of prayer wheels on the second floor. Jogiwara Road, McLeod - Map #6 Contact: 9857121027 / 9816124833 Come for fine Italian food, amazing views from the roof top terrace garden, live music, stylish decor & yummy desserts!

CARPE DIEM RESTAURANT & PIZZERIA

“Your Health is our Happiness” • • • • • •

MEXICAN, ITALIAN, INDIAN, CHINESE, CONTINENTAL, & THAI FOOD

Enjoy traditional Taiwanese and Chinese food and peaceful environment, just one minute from the Bus Stand, just behind Asian Plaza! (Map #3)

Common Grounds Cafe is a nonprofit venture of Common Grounds Project, an NGO with a mission to establish and promote innovative forums to achieve common grounds of shared understanding between Chinese and Tibetan people. We also host weekly programs including screenings, discussions, & workshops.

TIBET KITCHEN

Healthy hygiene, No MSG Everything washed with sterilized water RESTAURANT & BEANS CAFE Homemade muesli & homemade curd BEST AUTHENTIC TIBETAN CUISINE IN TOWN Large variety of fresh juices SPECIALIZING IN THAI, BHUTANESE, & CHINESE Wood-fired pizza oven & clay Tandoori oven WE ALSO SERVE FRESH BEAN COFFEE Relaxed atmosphere including roof top tables Healthy Hygienic - Only A.C. Restaurant in town & Japanese-style seating area Homemade Noodles - Internet surfing Party Bookings Available

Located on Jogiwara Road, across from the Tibetan Reception Center (down from Post Office) - Map #8

Open 11:00 am to 9:30 pm. Located at the Main Square Contact: 01892-221980, Mobile: 98058 75626 - Map #5

HOTEL LADIES’ VENTURE

Are you reading this by

Chance?

“The most suitable place for foreigners, holidaymakers, honeymooners, trekkers, and those who wish to commune with nature!”

Or was it destined…

We offer: Affordable dormitories, well-appointed rooms, boarding, and McLeod Ganj’s FINEST hospitality! Jogiwara Road - Map #10 Mobile - 981 623 5648 Hotel - 01892 22 1559

Glorious Arts BELIEVE IN THE BEST

Discover the Secrets of Being, Doing and Having everything. Unravel the Mystery of your life, And Find the Purpose & Happiness.

Take a walk to….

KUNDALINI Esoteric Boutique

Deals in: Precious & Semi-Precious Stones Gold & Silver Jewellery Pashmina Shawls ♦ Thangkas ♦ Carpets, etc. Also Made to Order

On hotel Surya Road, Mcleodganj - Map # 14

Shop No. 11, Mount View Complex, Temple Road, McLeod Ganj (inside Hotel M, opposite reception desk - Map #2) Mobile: +91-9816559319 / 9960802594 Also visit us in Goa, near the CSM Hotel, Baga **Bring in this ad and receive 11% off any one item!** (expires 31 July 2012)

Contact Magazine

Result guaranteed life-style ideas & discussions at 6:00PM every evening Tuesday through Friday. Reiki Meditation Healing, Crystals, Pashmina Carpets Every product a labor of love 18

August 2012


advertisements BHAGSU NAG

Map not to scale

For Details See Advertisement Pages Thank you for patronizing our advertisers!

TIPA

DHARAMKOT

Vipassana Centre

Naddi Village Tibetan Children’s Village (TCV)

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Tushita Centre

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MAIN SQUARE

3

10

McLEOD GANJ Main Bazaar

8

7 9

6

5

1 Lha

2

14

Cantt Police Post

11 21

12

19 15

16

13

17

Road to Dharamshala

1. Lha Headquarters 2. Glorious Arts 3. Common Ground Cafe 4. Kunga Guest House & Nick’s Italian Kitchen 5. Tibetan Kitchen 6. Jimmy’s Italian Kitchen 7. Nature Cure Health Club 8. Carpe Diem Restaurant 9. Dr. Mobile 10. Hotel Ladies’ Venture 11. Seven Hills of Dokibe & Om Yoga Center

12. 8 Auspicious Him View Hotel 13. Destination Travels 14. Kundalini 15. Hotel Nataraj 16. Pema Thang Guest House 17. Chonor House 18. Dream Holidays Travel 19. Crepe Pancake Hut 20. Ahimsa House & Lha Soup Kitchen 21. Angel Massage Centre

Road to Dharamshala

Destination Travels Authorised agent for Jet Airways and Air Sahara instant tickets Online reservations / availability

DR. KUMAR CLINIC OPPOSITE CLUB HOUSE SURYA HOTEL RD., McLeod Ganj FACILITIES: OPD, MEDICINE, LAB TEST • AYURVEDIC BODY DIAGNOSIS & DIET RECOMMENDATION

Our Services:

• International and domestic flight tickets on all airlines • Dharamshala to Delhi & Kullu to Kelhi flight tickets available • Online reservations • Special youth / student fares • Hotel reservations / Transfers • Hotel in Thailand / Malaysia / Singapore Temple Road, McLeod Ganj Phone: 01892 220 399 / 220012 Mobile: 94180 41414 E-mail: sales@destinationtravels.co.in Web: www.destinationtravels.net - Map #13 Contact Magazine

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• 24 HR MEDICAL EMERGENCY

Call: 088 944 92837 Email: Satinder3737@gmail.com Website: kumarayurveda.com

FOR SALE

THIS SPACE

COULD BE

YOUR ADVERTISEMENT

FOR SALE

8 AUSPICIOUS HIM VIEW HOTEL

Located below Ghu Chum Movement at Jogiwara Road (Map #12). We have 8 beautiful, well-decorated rooms with good-luck symbols in each.

All rooms have a balcony facing the Himalayan Range. Enjoy the sunrise from your bed! Our restaurant serves Vegetarian Tibetan and Continental dishes. We also have a coffee and juice bar featuring homemade cakes.

Phone: 01892 220567 Cell: 9418236603 Email: tseringd@aushimview.com August 2012


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Delek Hospital Logo Competition

Interested in a Tibetan Homestay? Lha Charitable Trust can arrange homestays of one month with a Tibetan refugee family. By sharing day-to-day life with a Tibetan family, you will have an opportunity to experience Tibetan culture in an intensive way. Spend your time in Dharamsala learning the language, cooking Tibetan meals, sharing rituals with a family, and making friends and memories that will last a lifetime. Homestays include accomodation, breakfast, and dinner. If you’re interested in a Tibetan Homestay, contact Lha at office@lhasocialwork.org, or stop by the main Lha office on Temple Road in McLeod Ganj.

Tashi Delek!

Chonor

Delek Hospital is in search of a new hospital logo. Any person is eligible to compete and forward us a logo they think would be most appropriate. The winner will get Rs. 2,500 cash prize or a complete free medical check-up at Delek. Participants should e-mail their design to hospitaldelek@yahoo.com or send it via post to address below. The last date for submission of a logo is December 30, 2012. Submissions should be sent to: Administrator Delek Hospital Kharadanda Road Dharamsala-176215 Distt. Kangra, H.P. India

Crepe Pancake Hut

House

Chonor House (map #17) is centrally located overlooking His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s temple. We have eleven uniquely decorated and well-appointed rooms with room service and housekeeping. Internet is available in our Cyber Yak. Our chefs create a wide range of Tibetan and International specialties which can be enjoyed in our beautiful restaurant, our peaceful gardens, or on your own private balcony. Visit our bakery for freshly-made cakes and cookies to enjoy here or to take away. For that special gift to take home, visit our shops, Chonor Designs and Norling Designs (on Temple Road) and choose from our exclusive range of jewellery, clothing, and handicraft items. Phone: 221815 Talented artisans from Norbulingka Institute create all of our designs. Phone: +91(0)1 892 221 006/221 077 Fax: +91 (0) 1892 221648 Email: chonorhs@sancharnet.in - or - chonorhs@norbulingka.org Website: www.norbulingka.org/site/visitor.htm

KUNGA GUEST HOUSE

Spacious rooms with views

over the valley, and... Visit our Café for organic flour-made pancakes with fresh fruit sauce, a variety of fillings & Green and Home baked cakes, quiches, Grain salads

NICK’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT

Come to enjoy our homemade Pineapple beer & Ginger beer Jogiwara Road, opposite Mountview Guesthouse (Map #19) Mobile: 9418607037

pies, pastas, cheese, & Italian favourites served on our massive terrace. We also have on sale the

Rigpa Tibetan Calendar Bhagsu Road - Map #4 Phone: 221 180

E L trained M AandSexperienced S A G Etherapists C E from N Ta recognRE Pema Thang Guest House AWeNareGcertified, ised Institute of India. We perform the following therapies and Restaurant Charming, comfortable, and scrupulously clean Minutes from Main Temple and Market, tucked on a quiet street with magnificent view of the Kangra Valley.

Rooms feature kitchenette. New addition: Yoga Hall Traditional Tibetan Musical Evening with Buffet Dinner Every Month Adjoining Restaurant offers delicious local and continental fare described by Wikitravel as “lip-smackingly yummy.” Hotel Bhagsu Road, McLeod Ganj: Map #16 Phone: 221871/221001 www.pemathang.net Contact Magazine

Tibetan Massage

Swedish Massage

Thai Massage

Deep Tissue Massage

Balinese Massage

Hawaiian Massage

Reflexology

Aromatherapy

Enjoy the therapy with soft music Massage courses and treatment are available Visit Us at Hotel Misty Woods, 44/3 Jogiwara Rd Mcleod Ganj (near Chocolate Log) Map #1

Phone: 9736083627-9736083554

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August 2012


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