Special Program: A Pilgrimage of Offerings
Program Details
- Duration: 6 Days / 5 Nights (September 3-8, 2025)
- Cost: S$1,320 per person
- Package Includes: All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), transportation, flights, and accommodation
- Accommodation: D's Casa- A Unique Spanish Boutique House
- Airport Transfer: Free transfer from Amritsar Airport to Dharamsala
- Registration: Visit www.tashigephelling.org
- Registration Deadline: July 31, 2025
- Contact: +65 9768 4268 (Call or WhatsApp)
This special program allows participants to contribute towards lunch offerings at monasteries for more than 800 monks, sharing in the merit and joy of giving. The pilgrimage includes visits to three significant monasteries in the Dharamsala area, with opportunities to participate in traditional Buddhist practices and rituals.
All are welcome to contribute towards the Sangha and Dana offerings at the monasteries, including those who are not able to join the trip. This is a wonderful opportunity to support the monastic community and generate merit through the act of giving.
Spiritual Significance of the Pilgrimage
Dana (Giving)
Contribute to the sustenance of the monastic community through the practice of dana, one of the fundamental virtues in Buddhism.
Merit Accumulation
Gain merit through the act of giving, which is believed to create positive karma and spiritual benefits.
Authentic Practices
Experience authentic Tibetan Buddhist practices and rituals in their traditional setting.
Sacred Connection
Connect with the spiritual heritage of Dharamsala, home to His Holiness the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan government-in-exile.
Participation in Sangha and Dana Offerings
All are welcome to contribute to Sangha Offering and Dana Offering, including those who are not able to join the trip. This is a wonderful opportunity to:
- Support the monastic community of more than 800 monks
- Generate merit through the act of giving
- Connect spiritually with the pilgrimage even if you cannot physically attend
- Participate in this auspicious offering to all three monasteries: Namgyal, Gyuto, and Jamyang
Those who wish to contribute without joining the trip can contact: +65 9768 4268 (Call or WhatsApp) for details on how to participate in the offerings.
Preparation for the Pilgrimage
What to Bring
- Modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees
- Comfortable shoes that can be easily removed
- Small offerings like incense or flowers (optional)
- Camera (ask permission before photographing)
- Journal for reflection
- Cash for additional donations if desired
Monastery Etiquette
- Remove shoes before entering temples and prayer halls
- Speak softly and avoid pointing at sacred objects
- Walk clockwise around stupas and sacred structures
- Do not touch sacred objects unless invited
- Ask permission before taking photographs
- Follow guidance of monastery staff or leaders
Day-by-Day Pilgrimage Itinerary
Day 1: Wednesday, September 3, 2025
Arrival
Activities
- Flight to Dharamshala
- Arrive at Dharamshala (Free airport transfer from Amritsar Airport)
- Check-in at D's Casa- A Unique Spanish Boutique House
- Dinner
- Rest and acclimatization
Day 2: Thursday, September 4, 2025
Namgyal Monastery
Pilgrimage Activities
- Breakfast at hotel
- Lunch and Sangha Offering at Namgyal Monastery (the Dalai Lama's personal monastery)
- Visit Tibetan Library & Museum, Dharamcot
- Explore the Tsuglagkhang Complex (Dalai Lama Temple)
- Dinner
Day 3: Friday, September 5, 2025
Gyuto Monastery
Pilgrimage Activities
- Breakfast at hotel
- Lunch and Sangha Offering at Gyuto Monastery (famous for its tantric studies and distinctive overtone chanting)
- Visit Norbulingka Institute (center for preserving Tibetan arts)
- Dinner
Day 4: Saturday, September 6, 2025
Jamyang Monastery
Pilgrimage Activities
- Breakfast at hotel
- Lunch and Sangha Offering at Jamyang Monastery
- Participate in hanging prayer flags & circumambulation ritual
- Dinner
Day 5: Sunday, September 7, 2025
Free Day
Pilgrimage Activities
- Free & Easy day for personal exploration
Day 6: Monday, September 8, 2025
Departure
Activities
- Flight back to Singapore (or your next destination)
Accommodation
D's Casa- A Unique Spanish Boutique House
Included in Your Package
Location: McLeod Ganj, 4.2 miles from HPCA Stadium
Rating: 9.5/10 (Exceptional)
Amenities: Terrace, free private parking, restaurant, massage services
Highlights: Unique Spanish-inspired architecture, comfortable rooms, excellent service
Transportation
Airport Transfer
Free airport transfer is provided from Amritsar Airport to Dharamsala as part of your package.
Local Transportation
The pilgrimage program includes all local transportation needed for the scheduled activities.
If exploring independently:
- Taxis available at taxi stands (100-300 INR for short trips)
- Auto-rickshaws for local sightseeing
- Public buses between Dharamsala and McLeod Ganj (most economical)
Travel Tips
Packing Tips
- Clothing: Light layers for daytime (20-25°C) and warmer clothes for evenings (10-15°C)
- Rain gear: Light raincoat or umbrella (post-monsoon season)
- Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes and slip-on shoes for temple visits
- Sun protection: Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen (high altitude means stronger sun)
- Medications: Personal prescriptions and basic first aid supplies
Health & Safety
- Altitude: Dharamsala is at 1,457m elevation; allow time to acclimatize
- Water: Drink only bottled or purified water
- Food safety: Eat at reputable establishments
- Travel insurance: Recommended with coverage for medical emergencies
- Emergency contacts: Save local emergency numbers and your country's embassy
Local Customs
- Respect: Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites
- Photography: Ask permission before photographing people, especially monks
- Sacred objects: Don't point at or touch religious artifacts without permission
- Shoes: Remove footwear when entering temples and homes
- Greetings: "Tashi Delek" is a traditional Tibetan greeting
Visa Information
- Requirement: All foreign nationals need a valid visa to enter India
- e-Visa: Apply online at indianvisaonline.gov.in
- Timeline: Apply 2-4 weeks before travel (no earlier than 120 days)
- Passport validity: Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond visa application date
- Assistance: Contact +65 9768 4268 for visa application help
Useful Contacts
Emergency Contacts
- Police: 100
- Ambulance: 108
- Fire: 101
- Tourist Police: +91 1892 223040
- Delek Hospital (McLeod Ganj): +91 1892 222053
Pilgrimage Information
- Phone/WhatsApp: +65 9768 4268
- Website: www.tashigephelling.org
- Social Media: Follow "Tashigephelling" on Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, and Pinterest
- Registration Deadline: July 31, 2025
Important Locations
- Namgyal Monastery: Mcleod Ganj, Dharamshala
- Gyuto Monastery: Sidhbari, Dharamshala
- Jamyang Monastery: Mcleod Ganj, Dharamshala
- Tsuglagkhang Complex: Temple Rd, McLeod Ganj
- Norbulingka Institute: Palampur Road, Sidhpur
Register for the Pilgrimage
Please click the button below to open the registration form. Payment can be made via PAYNOW (QR code in the form) or credit card.