Contact October 2014

A Free Monthly PublicAtion For tibetAn issues & coMMunity inForMAtion

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Rgd No. HPENg/2013/51798 VolumE: XVI IssuE: 9 31 octobER 2014

A Self-immolation in Golug

Kunchok, 42, burned himself in front of a police station in Tsang Khor town in Gade County, in the Golog region of Tibet on September 16. Tibetans nearby managed to douse the flames and rushed Kunchok to hospital in Xining where his medical condition is reported to be very serious with most of his body burned. His family are concerned that he will not survive. reports Radio Free Asia.

Information about Kunchok’s self-immolation is surfacing only now

as local Tibetans did not want to put him or those who assisted him at risk of arrest, and details of the

hospital in which he is being kept are being withheld to prevent him being detained by security forces. Most surviving self-immolators are detained incommunicado; those who die in custody or whose bodies are taken by the police are usually cremated by the authorities who return the ashes to the family, preventing them from conducting normal funeral services.

“He is now in great pain...he often breaks down in tears over his failure to die in the self-immolation. He regrets not accomplishing what he planned to do” a source has told Radio Free Asia. Kunchok’s chances of survival are said to be “slim”. He has a son and a daughter who are a monk and a nun in a local monastery.

The New UN Rights Commissioner Turns His Attentions to Tibet

By Annie PadwickZeid Ra’ad Al-Hussein, the new United Nations (UN) High Commissioner for Human Rights, has announced

plans to visit Tibet. During a media briefing he expressed his intention to “move around” the region in a multi-day visit, but said he is still in preliminary discussions with the Chinese authorities to arrange this.

China provisionally agreed to a visit from the UN rights chief during a periodic review at the UN Human Rights Council last year. Groundwork for the visit was established by Ms Navi Pillay, predecessor to Al-Hussein, who had urged China to address the allegations of rights violations in Tibet, and the alarming escalation of desperate forms of protest in the region.

Tibet has been a focus for many UN Human Rights chiefs, but repeated requests to visit have been turned down. Following a UN review of China’s human rights record, China rejected all recommendations except the one to facilitate a visit from the UN High Commissioner for Human

Rights and Special Rapporteur to Tibet. If Al-Hussein’s visit to Tibet goes ahead as planned, he will be the first UN Rights chief to visit China and Tibet since 1998.

The Human Rights Commissioner for the UN is mandated to promote and protect the enjoyment and full realisation, by all people, of all rights established in the UN Charter and in international human rights laws and treaties. Al-Hussein, previously Jordan’s ambassador to the United States, has been outspoken on human rights since his appointment in September this year, and his interest in China and Tibet has been highly commended by Tibetan activists and supporters.

When asked at a press conference if he might visit other areas of China, Al-Hussein answered, “In the initial dialogue, we spoke of a multi-day visit, so I suspect that I would move around if indeed we are able to get the visit in place soon.” Many hope that

Al-Hussein will also include a visit to Xinjiang, an area which has seen escalating protest and unrest, together with disproportionate crackdown by Chinese authorities on the minority Muslim Uyghur community in recent years.

Zeid Ra’ad Al-HusseinPhoto: Reuters/Denis Balibouse

ContaCt 2 OCTOBER 2014

ContaCt, a free monthly publication of Lha Charitable Trust, is a recognised and registered publication under the Registrar Office of the Newspaper, Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, Government of India. The registration number is HPENG/2013/51798. Recognised by Lonely Planet and other international travel resources, Contact has been a popular source of news and information on Tibetan issues, and the Dharamshala community, for over 14 years.700 - 1,000 copies are printed per issue and distributed in the greater Dharamshala area and in Delhi, and various diplomatic missions to India. Copies are also sent to various Tibetan schools, settlements, offices and NGOs in 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. Send your material via email to [email protected]

Please Note:The articles, stories and other material in Contact represent the views of the authors and not necessarily the views of the Contact editing staff or Lha Social Work.All comments on this issue should be submitted by email to:[email protected]

Contact is available at many places around McLeod Ganj including the Lha office, libraries, travel agencies, hotels, restuarants and shops.

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 organisation based in Dharamshala, India. It is one of the largest social work organisations 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 programmes, IT classes, vocational

training, health and environmental awareness education, distribution of clothes and medicine, a community kitchen, and many other programmes 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

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This Issue of Contact is sponsored by the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy (TFD). TFD’s kind contribution has made this publication possible.

We thank TFD for supporting the publication of Contact.

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Monetary donations are extremely helpful and are greatly appreciated, large or small.

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On July 6, 2011, Lha opened its community soup kitchen at its new building, Ahimsa House. This is the first soup kitchen in Dharamshala and serves low-cost and nutritious meals to the Tibetan refugee community. Forty to fifty needy refugees can take advantage of this service every day for a nominal fee of Rs15 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 restaurant industry.


about lha

Lha TraveLer ServiceS and voLunTeer opporTuniTieS

Long or short-term, skilled or unskilled volunteers needed at Lha

• English conversation Mon – Fri, 4pm – 5pm• English, French and Chinese teachers

and tutors• Computer teachers• Web designers and IT professionals• Contributing writers • Environmental professionals• Medical and healthcare professionals• Fundraisers and grant writers• Project professionals• Chefs and cooks• Human rights and legal professionals• Personal assistant (PA)• And much more!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 organisation. Lha volunteers will develop friendships, learn about issues facing the Tibetan refugee community, and become immersed in the fascinating cultures of the people they are serving.

TIBETAN COOKING CLASSIndividuals and small groups can learn to prepare a variety of traditional and modern vegetarian Tibetan foods including momos, thukpa and Tibetan bread, with a qualified teacher.

TIBETAN HOME-STAYLha arranges home-stays with refugee families giving visitors the chance to experience the Tibetan life style and a chance to connect and learn about each others’ cultures. Spend your time in Dharamshala learning the language, cooking Tibetan meals, sharing rituals with a family, and making friends and memories that will last a lifetime. Homestays include accommodation, breakfast, and dinner.

For information on cost, times and/or registration, please visit: Lha office, Temple Road McLeod Ganj-176219

Dharamshala, Distt. Kangra H.P.(Mon-Sat: 9:00am-12:00pm

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RECEPTION & ORIENTATIONOur services help smooth your arrival in Delhi, and your onward travel to Dharamshala, and also to orientate you to the Tibetan community here. Avoid the scams at Delhi Airport! These services are highly recommended for people who want a stress-free arrival, especially if you are arriving late at night or early in the morning, and can be purchased online in advance of your travel to India There is a discount for people travelling together.*All donations and fees from Lha classes and services directly benefit Lha

community social work projects.

Volunteer Classes and Services

Lha Projects in the Tibetan Exile CommunityClean Water for Elderly PeopleLha has installed its 14th water purification system at Jampaling Old People’s Home, Dharamshala, as part of the Lha Clean Water Project.

Jampaling Old People’s Home was established in 1991 and takes care of

148 elderly people. It is located near Tsuglahkang Temple where residents feel very lucky

and blessed to be living so close to the residence of HH the Dalai Lama.

The water purification system is an RO+UV+ UF and TTS, considered one of the best systems available in the area. It will provide more than 100 litres per hour of safe drinking water, to help alleviate illnesses, eg typhoid and cholera which are common in this region, and contribute to the good health of the residents. We have

worked with the Home Department of the CTA who requested this project.

Lha, and everybody at Jampaling, all extend our deepest appreciation to the Tibet Fund, USA, for their support for this, and our next two water filter systems.

Four more clean water systems will be installed before the end of the year; all this year’s water projects form Lha’s contribution to mark 2014 as the year of HH the Dalai Lama. So far around 6,300 people have benefited from Lha’s Clean Water Project, and we hope to install more with help from our generous donors around the globe.

Spreading the Word: HIV/AIDSLha has taken the HIV/AIDS Awareness Project to Shimla, where Demay Tsering, Lha’s Environment and Health Officer, gave a presentation on HIV/AIDS and substance abuse to students of the Central School for Tibetans, which is run by the Central

Tibetan Schools Association. More than 150 students took part. The main

objective of the talk was to create a w a r e n e s s about the concept of the disease and how to take

preventive measures to avoid it. Lha started the awareness project

earlier this year. Although data on the HIV/AIDS situation in Tibetan communities in exile is limited, Tibetans in exile are categorised as a high risk group for HIV infection due to their high mobility and lack of awareness of the disease.

Lha Charitable Trust intends to tackle the problem and raise awareness to help reduce the incidence of HIV/AIDS among Tibetans living in exile The project will also address drug abuse in the community.


news & issues

India Ratifies New Entitlements for TibetansBy Tsering WangdueA new policy guideline for the welfare and rehabilitation of Tibetan refugees in India has been formalised by the Government of India’s Ministry

of Home Affairs. The Tibetan Rehabilitation Policy 2014 was formally handed over to the Home Kalon Gyari Dolma of the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) by Mr KK Pathak, Joint Secretary of the Ministry of Home Affairs.

The policy was the result of extensive liaison between the Ministry of Home Affairs, Ministry of External Affairs, concerned State Governments and representatives of the CTA.

The Rehabilitation Policy makes clear the entitlements of Tibetans relating to their welfare in India. The guidelines include the extension of land lease agreements and the benefits available to Tibetans under central and state government welfare schemes. The Policy also grants Tibetans the right to undertake economic activity and pursue any job for which they are professionally qualified; these can include nursing, engineering, accounting, medicine, etc.

“Now we Tibetans can start our own franchises and enterprises as we are entitled to get a trade licence and permits under the guidelines of Tibetan Rehabilitation Policy 2014” said a CTA spokesperson.

A copy of the policy guidelines

will be sent to all concerned state governments and Tibetan Settlement Officers, to demonstrate the Indian Government’s concern and commitment to set a uniform policy in all states in dealing with the rehabilitation and welfare of Tibetan refugees.

The Home Kalon Gyari Dolma of the CTA thanked the Indian Government Ministry of Home Affairs and Joint Secretary for the clear and positive policy guidelines.

There are over 100,000 Tibetans living in India and for the first time the Indian Election Commission allowed Indian-born Tibetans to participate in the general election this year, and has given them the right to apply for an Indian passport.

Now with this new Tibetan Rehabilitation Policy 2014, Tibetans are seeing positive changes in the Indian Government’s policy towards Tibetan refugees.

Home Kalon Dolma Gyari with Mr KK Pathak, Under Secretary Mr SK Parida and Home Secretary Mr Sonam Topgyal

KhorlatsangPhoto: tibet.net

Sikyong Speaks Up for Tibet in EuropeBy Vanshika TripathiSikyong Dr Lobsang Sangay, the elected head of the Tibetan Government-in-Exile (CTA) began his four-nation visit to Europe by meeting Czech MPs in Prague. They discussed the Czech government’s policy on Tibet in view of its growing economic ties with China, and their decision to accede to China on the Tibet issue by signing a joint declaration with China earlier this year. Sikyong expressed concern, reminding them that their country is known for its stand for democracy, human rights and equality.

While in Prague, Dr Sangay participated in the 18th annual Forum with around 200 global leaders from the areas of politics, academia, civil society, media, business and religion. The theme this year was “Democracy and Its Discontents: A Quarter-Century After the Iron Curtain and Tiananmen”. Sikyong took part in a panel discussion “The Significance

of Vaclav Havel’s Value Based Foreign Policy”. The Forum was founded in 1996 as a joint initiative by the late Czech President Václav Havel, Japanese philanthropist Yohei Sasakawa, and Nobel Peace Prize Laureate Elie Wiesel and provides a platform for discussion on the values of democracy and respect for human rights, assisting the development of civil society, and encouraging religious, cultural and ethnic tolerance.

Sikyong arrived in Belgium on October 16 to a welcome from over 500 Tibetans. He spoke to them about the Middle-Way Approach—which is the CTA’s official policy—saying it exists so that Tibet can gain authentic autonomy.

Two days later a crowd of 350 Tibetans wearing traditional chubas warmly welcomed Dr Sangay to the Netherlands. “I am honoured and touched by your welcome” he said, and told them that the Middle-Way Approach is essential for improving

Tibet-China relations and for gaining Tibetan autonomy.

The Sikyong also said that one of the primary reasons for visiting both countries was to gain information about the difficulties that Tibetan asylum applicants are facing, and to speak to the administrations there about their problems.

Arriving in Barcelona, Dr Sangay spoke to the Catalonia Parliament’s Foreign Affairs Committee on the current situation in Tibet andcompleted his European tour with a speech delivered at Casa del Tibet (Tibet House) in Barcelona.

Sikyong arrives in the NetherlandsPhoto: Tibet.net


news & issues

By Loren HendinTibetans in exile, together with many visitors from around the world, gathered at Tsuglakhang, the main temple in Dharamshala, to celebrate two very special occasions on October 2 – the 25th anniversary of His Holiness the Dalai Lama receiving the Nobel Peace Prize and the 145th anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi’s birth. The message was for Tibetans to continue their struggle by following the path of peace led by Mahatma Gandhi and His Holiness the Dalai Lama himself.

“Following Gandhi’s way of living and principles will bring inner peace and contentment in our daily life,” said His Holiness. Sikyong Dr Lobsang Sangay, the elected head of the Tibetan Government-in-Exile, added that the Nobel Peace Prize represents everything

A Double CelebrationMahatma Gandhi fought for and that he is a person who truly deserves high honour.

Fellow Nobel Peace Laureates Jody Williams from the United States and Shirin Ebadi of Iran joined His Holiness in addressing the audience of thousands,

speaking on the strength and importance of the Tibetan struggle.

“Tibetans inside Tibet and in exile should know that we always support you,” said Jody Williams. “The non-violent struggle of Tibetans led by His Holiness the Dalai Lama is a model of peaceful conflict resolution.”

Shirin Ebadi added that she admires the way Tibetans have preserved their culture and kept the Tibetan spirit alive under the leadership of His Holiness. “The people of the world and Iran have learned a lot from His Holiness the Dalai Lama on how not to lose hope under difficult circumstances.”

Both Laureates stood firm on their decision to boycott the Nobel Prize Winners’ summit in South Africa which was scheduled to take place this month.

His Holiness with Nobel laureates Jody Williams and Shirin Ebadi

Photo: Tibet.net

Nobel Laureates’ Summit CancelledBy Mary TrewarthaThe 14th Nobel Laureates’ Peace Summit, due to be held in Cape Town this month, has been suspended because South Africa refused to issue a visa to His Holiness the Dalai Lama. Four women laureates refused to attend, and 14 others wrote to the South African President Jacob Zuma urging him to allow the Dalai Lama to visit South Africa, saying they were “deeply concerned about the damage that will be done to South Africa’s international image by a refusal or failure to grant him a visa yet again”.

Archbishop Desmond Tutu, a close friend of the Dalai Lama and whose foundation is among the organisers of

this year’s summit, hit out at the South African government for “kowtowing” to China in refusing a visa to the Tibetan leader, saying he was “ashamed to call this lickspittle bunch my government”.

This was the third time in five years that His Holiness had been denied a visa to visit South Africa, drawing public outcry by South Africans who see it as a betrayal of the commitment to human rights embraced by their government since the end of apartheid 20 years ago. China, South Africa’s biggest single trading partner, welcomed the move by South Africa.

His Holiness accused South Africa of bullying and thanked his fellow peace laureates for their efforts, saying they had worked hard to resolve the issue.

Jody Williams, founder of the International Campaign to Ban Landmines, and one of the laureates

who pulled out of the summit, accused President Jacob Zuma’s government of “selling its sovereignty” to China, and said it has violated the human rights of the Dalai Lama to attend the summit.

The Mayoral Office of Cape Town said the South African government has undermined South Africa’s international standing and embarrassed the country.

The Tibetan National Congress (TNC), an independent political party, launched a campaign last month aimed at the Nobel laureates:“We call for the World Summit of Nobel Peace Laureates to be relocated to a more appropriate venue because the world needs this summit and no authoritarian government should be allowed to control it by censoring which voices get heard,” said TNC President Jigme Ugen.

Jody WilliamsPhoto: icbl.org

His Holiness with Archbishop Desmond Tutu in 2008


news & issues

Chinese Police Open Fire on Anti-Mining Protesters

By Loren HendinHis Holiness the Dalai Lama gave a four-day teaching “Nagarjuna’s Fundamental Wisdom Treatise of the Middle Way”, starting on October 6, at Dharamshala’s main temple, Tsuglakhang. The teaching was at the request of a group of Taiwanese Buddhists. His audience numbered over 4,000 people, with 800 from Taiwan and people representing 61 other countries.

His Holiness began his teachings with an introduction to the major branches of Buddhism. He asked his audience to remember the roots of Buddhism and that, despite differences between Buddhist sects, they are all one.

“We all are followers of Nagarjuna. We are all one in that sense. Even in the various sects of Tibetan Buddhism, though there may be several minor differences in the branches, the foundation is the same. So, we should

Long Life Ceremony for His Holinessemphasise more on the principals to attain a deeper and purer level of understanding.”

On the morning of October 8, the third day of the teachings and a full-moon day, which is propitious, His Holiness was offered a Long Life Ceremony by Keutsang Rinpoche. His Holiness declared a special affection for Rinpoche because it was his predecessor who discovered him in 1937. Keutsang Rinpoche was part of the delegation dispatched to Amdo

in north-east Tibet to find the 13th Dalai Lama’s reincarnation, then a small boy. At Chija Taktser, a village

in the vicinity of Kumbum, they conducted traditional tests to confirm that the boy was the reincarnation. The Dalai Lama happily received the Long Life Ceremony, conducted by monks of Namgyal Monastery, led by their Abbot, Thamtog Rinpoche, while audience members shared snacks and butter tea.

On the third day, His Holiness led a ceremony to generate the awakening mind of bodhichitta.

His Holiness spoke of the need to remove negative emotions, to save ourselves and others from suffering, and to find lasting, rather than temporary, happiness. He said that enlightenment is to find peace of mind and integrity within ourselves, but is also for the benefit of all sentient beings. Throughout the teachings he reiterated, “As human beings we survive on love and affection.”

His Holiness with Kewtsang Rinpoche during the Long-Life CeremonyPhoto/Tenzin Choejor/OHHDL

By Tsering WangdueChinese police opened fire on peaceful protesters in Tsang Topgyal in Namling County, in the Shigatse prefecture in the Tibetan Autonomous Region (TAR) earlier this year. The villagers were protesting against mining activities in the area.

Thirteen people were wounded, including a pregnant woman who was shot in the leg. The injured people were taken to Shigatse Hospital, or to the County hospital.

The incident, which took place on August 9, was only reported this month, the news delayed by blocks on internet and communication systems by the Chinese authorities.

“The protesters surrounded the township office buildings and armed police came and opened fire on the

crowd”, said an anonymous source speaking to Radio Free Asia.

Chinese mining companies operating in Namling County extract gold, copper and other metals and minerals used to produce weapons.

“The local officials are known for taking perks from the mining companies and allowing the mining to proceed, saying they have permission from the Central Government of China” said the source.

The Tibetans living in Tsang Topgyal have frequently appealed to the authorities to stop mining activities, deciding to launch a protest when they received no positive response. Most of the residents of the 16 villages in the Tsang Topgyal Township participated in the protest.

“The protesters responded by

throwing stones after being fired on. People on both sides were injured” the source added.

There is no further information available regarding the condition of the injured protesters, or whether the protests are continuing in the area.

The Tibetan plateau is a rich source of minerals which are seen as important for China’s economic growth. Chinese mining operations affect Tibet’s fragile environment, polluting the rivers, destroying natural aquatic life and crops, causing health problems and disrupting significant spiritual sites.

More than 1,000 Tibetan villagers in the Tibetan Autonomous Region are known to have protested against the Chinese mining operations there to date.


news & issues

Talks with Beijing?By Rohini KejriwalThe last couple of weeks have seen media coverage worldwide suggesting a possible visit by His Holiness the Dalai Lama to China, or his return to Tibet. However, these are merely reports with nothing on this issue having been officially declared by His Holiness himself.

Several reports suggest that he is in informal talks with Beijing over his long-held wish to make a pilgrimage to Wutai Shan, a mountain in China’s Shanxi province that is considered sacred by both Tibetan and Chinese Buddhists.

“It’s not finalised, not yet, but the idea is there,” said His Holiness in an interview with the Agence France-Presse news agency, and added that talks were being held through contacts.

Announcing this, an anonymous blog posting on China’s Sina.com on September 17 discussed the Dalai Lama’s possible return to China: “According to informed sources familiar with the situation, the Dalai Lama’s recent communications with

the central government in Beijing have gone very smoothly, with the Dalai Lama expressing a strong wish to return

to the country. The Dalai Lama’s path to returning home doesn’t seem to be far off,” the post read. However, this was removed the following day after being viewed by thousands of people.

Soon after the idea of this historic pilgrimage was brought up and talks reportedly resumed between His Holiness and the Chinese government, China dismissed the possibility of the Dalai Lama’s return to Tibet, saying that their “position on the Dalai Lama is consistent and clear”.

“What he needs to do is not make a so-called return to Tibet but give up his position and conduct on splitting

China. This will do good for him,” said Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Hong Lei.

In a recent statement which also created a media storm, His Holiness indicated that he might become the last of his line. While his decision not to return as a political leader has been final since 2011, the Dalai Lama publicly stated that he will not make the ultimate decision on whether he will return as a spiritual leader until he is 90 (in

2025).“We had a Dalai Lama for almost

five centuries. The 14th Dalai Lama now is very popular. Let us then finish with a popular Dalai Lama…If a weak Dalai Lama comes along, then it will just disgrace the Dalai Lama. Tibetan Buddhism is not dependent on one individual. We have a very good organisational structure with highly trained monks and scholars,” he stated in an interview with German newspaper Welt am Sonntag.

Buddhist temples on Wutai Shan MountainPhoto: imaginechina

His Holiness in North Americacondemned such violence saying it “needs to be met with wisdom and

far-sightedness”. However, Harper refused to meet him during this visit.

His Holiness gave a teaching in Vancouver on Geshe Langri Thangpa’s “Eight Verses of Training the Mind” (Lojong Tsikgyema) and conferred the Avalokiteshvera Empowerment (Chenrezig Wang). “Whenever I give

By Rohini KejriwalHis Holiness the Dalai Lama is in Canada and the United States on a three-week visit. He has participated in a series of public talks, religious teachings and discussions with students, politicians, business leaders, economists, scientists and Tibet supporters.

Starting his visit in Vancouver, he visited the University of British Columbia and John Oliver School, meeting leading scientists in the fields of economics, neuroscience, psychology and public policy. The theme of these visits was the development of compassion in young people.

The Dalai Lama expressed his concern over the acts of terrorism in Canada, including the recent attack on Parliament. In a letter to Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper he

lectures on Buddhism in the West, I always emphasise that it is better to keep one’s own religious tradition and not convert. It is very important to develop mutual respect and understanding of other religions,” he said.

The Dalai Lama then headed to the US where he is scheduled to visit Birmingham, Boston and New York City.

In Birmingham, he went to the Alabama Church, one of America’s sacred sanctuaries where four African-American girls were killed in a 1963 bombing that galvanised the civil rights movement. In the 16th Street Baptist Church he said that he was overjoyed to stand at the site where Martin Luther King Jr and other civil rights leaders in the 1960s launched rallies for freedom for African-Americans.

Recitation of the Heart Sutra at the start of His Holiness’s teachings in Vancouver

Photo:Jeremy Russell/OHHDL


news & issues

“Rectification Campaign” Launches in Driru CountyBy Annapurna MellorUnrest in Driru County continues with the launch of a “Rectification and Cleansing” campaign by the Chinese authorities in the province last month. They instructed that all stupas, mounds, shrines and retreat buildings built after 2010 are illegal and must be destroyed by the villages and monasteries who built them, and gave a deadline to complete this. If people fail to comply, the authorities will destroy the illegal monuments for them.

The instruction also requires all monks under the age of twelve to leave the monasteries and return to their families, and states that new admissions to monasteries will be denied. If the family refuses to take their child back, they will face a six-month detention, or one to three years imprisonment. If Lamas and Khenpos hold the monks back, they will be punished and expelled themselves, reports Radio Free Asia.

The 30-page campaign booklet has been distributed to all monasteries and villages in Driru, with the campaign ending on October 20. Earlier this year, another handbook was issued entitled “Two laws by the Peoples’ Government of Driru County”, featuring rules and punishments to prevent Tibetans protesting against the Chinese authorities.

Earlier this month, it was also reported that six Tibetan monks from Drongurgon Kagyu Phelgyeling Monastery in Wathang Town in Driru were arrested after removing the Chinese national flag from their monastery terrace and burning it.

Driru has seen unrest for over a year, since Chinese authorities began mining at Naglha Zamba, a sacred hill and pilgrimage site. In September last year, Tibetans threw Chinese national flags into a nearby river instead of displaying them from their rooftops as required

on Chinese National Day. Days later, protests were sparked by the detention of a local man, resulting in Chinese

authorities opening fire on the unarmed crowd, leaving around 60 wounded. Two months later, the authorities shut down Drongna monastery and others in the region. In the three-month period of protests and unrest, 1,000 people were detained, around 600 of whom are thought to have received a programme of political “re-education”.

Tibetans faced by armed Chinese military forces in Driru during their peaceful protest

last yearPhoto: TPI

Heightened Security and Punitive MeasuresBy Jigme ThinleyChina has heightened security and imposed punitive measures on Tibetans in response to the spate of self-immolation protests in Tibetan areas, reports the United States based Congressional Executive Commission on China (CECC). The Commission reports that it has not observed any sign that Party and government leaders intend to respond to Tibetan grievances in a constructive manner or accept any accountability for Tibetan rejection of Chinese policies.

In its annual report on Tibet released this month, the Commission notes that the number of self-immolations has declined from 25 last year to eight this year in response to China’s policy of prosecuting and imprisoning Tibetans linked to a self-immolator. The Commission recommends that the Chinese government “refrain from using security and judicial institutions to intimidate Tibetan communities by prosecuting and imprisoning Tibetans

with alleged links to a self-immolator or for sharing information on self-immolation.”

The report also documents the status of Tibetan economic development, language, culture and religious freedom for Tibetans. It urges the

Chinese authorities to honour the Chinese Constitution’s reference to freedoms of speech, association, assembly and religion and to refrain from using the security establishment, courts, and law to infringe upon and repress Tibetans’ exercise of such rights.

The Commission notes that it has not observed any indication of official Chinese interest in resuming a dialogue that takes into account Tibetan

concerns in Tibetan autonomous areas, saying, “A Chinese government decision to engage in dialogue can result in a durable and mutually beneficial outcome for the government and Tibetans that will benefit local and regional security in coming decades”. Formal dialogue between the Dalai Lama’s representatives and Chinese Communist Party and government officials has been stalled since January 2010, the longest interval since such contacts resumed in 2002.

The report also questions the whereabouts of the Panchen Lama Gedun Choekyi Nyima, who went missing with his family after his recognition by His Holiness the Dalai Lama in 1995.

The CECC was set up by the US Congress in 2000, with the legislative mandate to monitor human rights and the development of the rule of law inside China, and to submit annual reports to the President and the Congress.


news & issues

Sentences, Arrests and Releases in Tibet

Oct 25: Tsangyang Gyamtso, the chant master of Drilda Monastery and one of four monks arrested in March in Sog County in the Nagchu Prefecture, has now reportedly been sentenced to 12 years in prison. He is charged with contacting overseas Tibetans and influencing other monks to engage in anti-China activities. The current whereabouts and condition of the four monks are not known.

Oct 19: Khenpo Kartse, the renowned Buddhist teacher and Abbot of Japa Monastery, has been sentenced to two and a half years in prison. Kartse, who was arrested in December 2013 and detained until now for allegedly harbouring a fugitive monk, was sentenced in a secret trial in Chamdo Prefecture. The Abbot’s lawyer was permitted to meet Kartse twice, and eventually retracted the case under pressure from the government.

Oct 18: D o r j e e Rinchen , popularly known as “Dori,” was taken into custody by

Chinese security forces when he was found throwing lungta (windhorse flags) into the air in his village in a lone protest. Dori is a former monk from Nubsoor Monastery and now a small business owner from Horshul Village, Serta County. He is currently under detention at an unknown location.

Oct 16: Tibetans in Sichuan Province’s Litang County gathered this week in order to pray for i m p r i s o n e d B u d d h i s t t e a c h e r Tenzin Delek R i n p o c h e , and to protest against his incarceration. They made offerings, praying for Rinpoche’s release and displaying large images of both Rinpoche and the Dalai Lama. Though speakers at the event openly criticised a number of Chinese officials’ roles in Rinpoche’s imprisonment, the gathering was left undisturbed by security forces.

Oct 6: Kalsang Tsultim, the Tibetan writer, has been released from prison after serving a four year sentence. Tsultim, also known as Gyitsang Takmig, was sentenced and

imprisoned in 2011 for sharing a video describing the hardships of Tibetans under Chinese rule, and urging the international community to intervene on their behalf. Tsultim has been warned that further political activity could result in further detention.

Oct 4: Passang Wangchuk, 37, was arrested in Kardze County after a solo protest against the Chinese

government. He was chanting slogans and carrying a large banner that demanded human rights for Tibetans, Tibet’s freedom, freedom of religion and the Dalai Lama’s right to return to Tibet. Wangchuk’s whereabouts and situation remain unknown since his arrest. He is described as an outspoken man for justice.

Oct 2: Six monks from the Drongurgon Kagyu Phelgyeling Monastery, located in Wathang Town, Driru County, have been arrested for the removal and burning of a Chinese flag that flew from the terrace of their monastery. [see article opposite]


news & issues

Tibetan HeadlinesOct 27: Ordered HomeResidents of Jomda county in the Chamdo prefecture of the Tibet Autonomous Region have been ordered to recall home any family members who are monks or nuns enrolled at Buddhist centres in western Chinese provinces. They have threatened families failing to comply with punishment, including withdrawal of all forms of government aid. Opportunties to study near Jomda are extremely limited.

Oct 27: Tibet Charity CelebratesTibet Charity (India) has celebrated its 10th anniversary with Sikyong Lobsang Sangay as Chief Guest at the ceremony. The charity, which works in close collaboration with the CTA, is well known for its services for the most marginalised sectors of the Tibetan community: the elderly and the sick, it also provides shelter to homeless and injured dogs and cats.

Oct 26: Journalist in TibetA journalist with the Irish TV news

channel RTÉ, has visited Tibet and conducted a series of interviews, some of which describe benefits under Chinese

rule, some are seen abruptly cut short by a Chinese-speaking escort. Mr Bromwell reported seeing tight security, describing the visit as “carefully choreographed” and acknowledging that a true picture of Tibetan life is still “out of reach”.

Oct 24: Mining BannedChinese authorities have banned mining operations in Dzatoe county in Yulshul, in the Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, in an environmentally sensitive area where clashes last year between police and Tibetan protesters left dozens injured and eight detained. This follows widespread coverage in foreign news media of the protests and community leaders petitioning

the central government in Beijing, and the area affected has been declared a protected zone.

Oct 23: “Forever Gratitude”Tibetan Children’s Village school in Dharamsala celebrated its 54th anniversary by paying tribute to HH the Dalai Lama with their theme, “Forever Gratitude to HH the Dalai Lama”. TCV was set up in 1960 with 51 students and now has 35 schools throughout India and has supported more than 14,000 students during the past 54 years.

Oct 22: Delek Hospital: 43 YearsThe Tibetan Delek hospital at Gangchen Kyishong celebrated its

43rd anniversary in a ceremony graced by His Eminence the Karmapa Rinpoche. A new doctors’ residence was

inaugurated, and the ceremony finished with a cultural performance by the Thangthong Lukar group. The ceremony also marked the “2014 – Year of His Holiness the Great 14th Dalai Lama”.

Oct 21: Confusius CampaignStudents for a Free Tibet have persuaded the Trustees of the Toronto District School Board to vote on cancelling their agreement with the Confucius Institute, with the aim of shutting China’s Confucius Institute out of Toronto’s secondary schools in Canada. The Chinese government directly manages the Confucius Institute, which has branches worldwide, and is using it to influence school curricula.

Oct 15: Nobel Prize Winners Sikyong Dr Lobsang Sangay has commended 2014 Nobel Peace Prize Winners Malala Yousafzai and Kailash Satyarthi. In a congratulatory note, Sikyong praised the Nobel recipients for fighting against the suppression

of children and promoting universal education, calling their efforts “heroic and iconic to the rest of the world…an inspiration to many.”

Oct 10: IntimidationChinese authorities have built a large police station and detention centre near the centuries-old Muge monastery in Ngaba, in an apparent bid to intimidate the monks there who are required to report all their activities. There is speculation that it may also be used for government workers sent to monitor the monks’ activities and give classes in Chinese law.

Oct 9: Military Upgrade China’s high level Military Commission headed by President Xi Jinping has upgraded the status of Tibet’s top police force to that of a military body in a move aimed at better safeguarding the region’s stability. Chinese People’s Armed Police have reportedly played a major role in controlling the recent self-immolations in Tibet.

Oct 5: “Ama” Wager Mourned HH the Dalai Lama and the CTA

have conveyed their grief at the passing of Ms Imtraut “Ama” Wager, longtime advocate of the welfare and education of

exiled Tibetans, saying “She was truly a beacon of light”.

Oct 2: PEN ResolutionOver 200 delegates from more than 80 regional centres of PEN, the international Tibetan Writers Group, attended the 80th PEN International Congress held in Bishkek, the capital city of Kyrgyzstan. The conference called on the Chinese government to restore the right to freedom of speech, rehabilitation of imprisoned writers in Tibet, and to release imprisoned Tibetan writers and artistes.


news & issues

International Headlinesofficial with access to the number of executions carried out each year”.

Oct 22: Top HR Prize Dr Denis Mukwege of the Democratic Republic of Congo has won Europe’s

top human r i g h t s prize, the Sakharov prize. He set up the Panzi h o s p i t a l to treat thousands

of women who have been subject to horrific sexual violence and gang rapes. Two years ago he survived an assassination attempt after condemning the use of sexual violence in DR Congo by forces fighting to control the country’s vast mineral wealth.

Oct 18: UN Urges Action The United Nations Security Council has urged the international community to go to greater lengths to stop Islamic State (IS) advances in Iraq and Syria. The Council requested that more nations support the Iraqi government and security forces, and expand bombing raids against the group. The announcement comes in light of IS gains in the region.

Oct 17: Militants CapturedAfghan security forces have captured two high-ranking members of the Haqqani militant group: Anas Haqqani, son of the Haqqani group’s founder, and Hafiz Rashid, a senior

commander in the organisation. They are thought to have played crucial roles in the group’s fund-raising, recruiting, and training operations.

Oct 27: Gender GapThe global gender gap has narrowed over the last ten years, says the World Economic Forum (WEF), with increased access for women to politics and the workforce. Looking at economic factors, health, education and political participation, WEF reports “sweeping changes” in many countries, with 105 becoming more equal since 2005. Iceland tops the list, with Yemen placed last. Six nations have seen their gender gap increase.

Oct 25: Transplant BreakthroughSurgeons in Sydney, Australia say they have performed the first heart transplant using a “dead heart”, reviving and then transplanting hearts that had stopped beating for up to 20 minutes. Hearts are the only organs not used after the heart has stopped beating. The first patient who received a heart said she felt a decade younger.

Oct 24: Artefacts ReturnedThe United States has returned about 20 ancient artefacts to Peru. The objects, some more than 1,800 years old, include pottery and pieces looted from ancient Peruvian graves dating back from before the arrival of the Spanish in the 16th Century. They had been stolen from burial sites and then smuggled from Peru to the States.

Oct 23: ExecutionsChina executed 2,400 people last year, a statistic Beijing tries to keep a state secret. The Dui Hua Foundation, a US-based human rights group said “China currently executes more people every year than the rest of the world combined”, and that they obtained the figures from “a judicial

Oct 14: UK Recognises PalestineIn an effort to realise a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, British lawmakers have voted to recognise Palestine as a state. The outcome is a symbolic victory for Palestinians pursuing an independent Palestinian nation.

Oct 13: Landslide VictoryIn a landslide victory Bolivian President Evo Morales has been re-elected for a third term as the nation’s leader. Morales, Bolivia’s first indigenous president, framed the win as a victory for his socialist and infrastructure development policies that have characterised his first two terms.

Oct 6: Farmers StrugglingMillions of farmers in Thailand are facing severe difficulties. Low rainfall and poor water reservoir management suggest coming drought, which could exacerbate rapidly increasing household debt in Thailand, already high among the nation’s farmers. Many in Thailand’s rice-growing heartland face the possibility of greater financial instability.

Oct 5: Aid Lacking A majority of wealthy nations failed to meet their development aid pledges for 2013, according to the One Campaign’s recently released aid data report. Of the aid contributed, only one third reached the world’s poorest nations. However, aid contributions increased by 5.3% to $131.2 billion in 2013, an improvement over previous years.

Oct 3: Myanmar Conflict General Secretary of the United Nations Ban Ki Moon has expressed deep concern regarding violence between Myanmar’s Rohingya Muslim and Buddhist communities. Secretary Moon’s report focused on the state of Rakhine, in which religious and ethnic tensions have led to continuing conflict since 2012.


Central Tibetan Administration The CTA serves in Dharamshala as the govern-ment 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 Sikyong Dr Lobsang Sangay. WEB: www.tibet.netLOCATION: Dharamshala – 176215PHONE: 01892-222218HOURS: Mon-Sat: 9:00 am-5:00 pmEMAIL: [email protected]

The Office of His Holiness The Dalai Lama (OHHDL)OHHDL is the personal office of His Holiness the Dalai Lama. The office organises 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 Dharamshala, 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.comLOCATION: Thekchen Choeling, McLeod Ganj, Dharamshala – 176219PHONE: 01892-221343 / 221210EMAIL: [email protected]

Tibetan Youth Congress (TYC)The TYC is an advocacy and political action organisation with chapters around the world. The Tibetan Youth Congress organises cultural exhibitions, educational campaigns and social welfare activities. The organisation publishes a series of periodicals and magazines on the Tibetan cause. WEB: www. tibetanyouthcongress.org LOCATION: Tipa Road, McLeod Ganj, Dharamshala -176219PHONE: 01892-221554 EMAIL:[email protected], [email protected]

Tibetan Women’s Association (TWA)The 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, Dharamshala – 176219PHONE: 01892-221527 EMAIL: [email protected]

Tibetan Children’s Village (TCV)TCV 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 Dharamshala and day school in McLeod Ganj, with other branches throughout India. WEB: www.tcv.org.inLOCATION: Dharamshala Cantt.176216PHONE: 01892-221354 / 221348EMAIL: [email protected]

Men-Tsee-Khang: Tibetan Medical & Astro. InstituteMen-Tsee-Khang is a facility for research, training and practice of traditional Tibetan medicine. Patients may seek treatment at Men-Tsee-Khang for both acute and chronic conditions. The facility provides extensive training and produces traditional pharmaceuticals. WEB: www.men-tsee-khang.orgLOCATION: Gangchen Kyishong, Dharamshala – 176215PHONE: 01892-223222 / 223113EMAIL: [email protected]

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.orgLOCATION: Gangchen KyishongDharamshala - 176215PHONE: 98822-55047EMAIL: [email protected]

Delek HospitalDelek Hospital is a small, Tibetan run hospital in Dharamshala. It has 45 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.orgLOCATION: Kharadanda Rd, Dharamshala 176215; Delek Clinic, Bhagsu Rd,DharamshalaPHONE: 01892-222053 / 223381HOURS: Outpatient, Mon-Fri: 9:00 am – 12:00 pm; Specialist clinics, Mon-Sat: 2:00 pm-4:30 pm; Emergencies, 24 hours dailyEMAIL: [email protected]

Sambhota Tibetan Schools SocietyThe society was established in 1999 to provide educational and administrative guidance to all Tibetan schools in remote areas of India and Bhutan that do not fall under the guidance of Tibetan Childrens Village. Today there are 12 schools under this organisation.WEB: www.sambhota.orgLOCATION: Session Rd, Dharamshala176215PHONE: 01892 - 228877 | 226877EMAIL: [email protected]

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. Volunteer opportunities available.WEB: www. tong-len.orgLOCATION: Top Floor, Bank Of Baroda, Kotwali Bazaar, Dharamshala-176215PHONE: 01892-223930EMAIL: [email protected]

Students for a Free Tibet (SFT)SFT is an international NGO that promotes the Tibetan cause among the non-Tibetan community. The organisation attempts to build international solidarity by advocating for a free Tibet through chapter organisations at Universities around the world. WEB:www.sftindia.org, www.studentsforafreetibet.orgLOCATION: Jogiwara Road, McLeod Ganj, Dharamshala - 176219PHONE: 9882786875

Tibetan Centre for Human Rights and Democracy (TCHRD)TCHRD 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.orgLOCATION: CTA, Dharamshala - 176215PHONE: 01892-223363EMAIL: [email protected]

Lha Charitable Trust (Lha)Lha, a Tibetan grassroots NGO based in Dharamshala, is one of the largest social work organisations 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. (see page 2)WEB:www.lhasocialwork.orgLOCATION: Temple Road, McLeod GanjPHONE: 01892-220992, 988-2323-455EMAIL: [email protected]

The Kangra Distt. Red Cross SocietyThe Kangra District Red Cross Society renders its humanitarian services, projects and activities with the help and the co-operation of people at all levels of society by donation.WEB: www.redcrosskangra.orgLOCATION: Red Cross Bhawan, DharamshalaPHONE: 01892-224888 / 9418832244EMAIL: [email protected]

Gu-Chu-Sum Movement of TibetGu-Chu-Sum is a social service organisation that provides financial and medical support for ex-political prisoners and political activists from Tibet. WEB: www.guchusum.orgLOCATION: Jogibara Road, McLeod Ganj, Dharamshala -176219 PHONE: 01892-220680 / 220679EMAIL: [email protected]

Tibet CharityTibet Charity provides programs including English and computer classes, an animal care program, and a variety of medical and educational financial support programs. WEB: www.tibetcharity.inLOCATION: Temple Road, McLeod GanjPHONE: 01892-221790 / 221877EMAIL:[email protected] [email protected]

Charities and Organisationsaround town


Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts (TIPA)Established in 1959, under the vision of HH the Dalai Lama, TIPA strives to preserve and promote Tibetan theatrical tradition. The Insitute imparts comprehensive training and lessons on Tibetan folk dance, folk song, traditional instruments and tradition of Tibetan opera.TIPA also hosts a beautiful theatrical museum which remains open during working days. We organise a special group tour of our campus every Wednesday (10 am).WEB: www.tibetanarts.orgLOCATION: TIPA Road, McLeod GanjDharamshala-176219PHONE: 01892-221478EMAIL: [email protected]

Learning and Ideas for Tibet (LIT)Learning and Ideas for Tibet (LIT) is a non-government, non-profit adult education centre in Dharamshala, North India. LIT provides Free Education, Health Care and Skills Training to Tibetan Refugees to help eradicate poverty and illiteracy amongst the Tibetan population.WEB: www.learningandideasfortibet.orgLOCATION: Jogiwara Road, Mcleod Ganj, Dharamshala 176219PHONE: 01892-220690EMAIL: [email protected]

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.orgLOCATION: Session Road, Gangchen Kyishong, Dharamshala 176215PHONE: 01892-226627EMAIL: [email protected]

Rogpa Baby Care CentreThe Rogpa Baby Care Centre helps low-income Tibetan families to become self-sufficient

by providing free child care for infants so their parents can work. The centre needs volunteers to help with art, games, singing and other tasks including diaper changing.WEB: www.tibetrogpa.orgLOCATION: Jogiwara Road, McLeod Ganj, Dharamshala- 176219 PHONE: 9816659549EMAIL: [email protected]

Gamru Village SchoolGamru Village School is a successful NGO that provides free high-quality education to any children who encounter serious barriers to education and who have a low standard of living.WEB: www.gamruschool.comLOCATION: Village Gamru, P.O Kotwali Bazaar, Dharamshala, Distt Kangra 176215PHONE: 9816105554EMAIL: [email protected]

Clean Upper Dharamshala 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 Centre are part of the Clean Upper Daramsala Project. Weekly guided tours are offered on Wednesdays at 3 pm.WEB: www.tsodhasa.orgLOCATION: Bhagsu Road, McLeod Ganj, Dharamshala - 176219PHONE: 01892-221059EMAIL: [email protected]

Nyingtob Ling (Realm of Courage) Nyingtob Ling supports Tibetan children from disadvantaged families. The children make handicrafts and paintings. They are so friendly and love to have visitors.WEB: www.nyingtobling.orgLOCATION: Near Norbulingka, SidhpurPHONE:01892 211042 / 9816028149EMAIL: [email protected] Women’s TeamVolunteers needed to teach English to Indian women and children in the village of Kaniyara near Dharamshala. Contact Jitender.EMAIL: [email protected]: 9817105035 / 08894435595

Charities and OrganisationsThe Active Nonviolence Education Center (ANEC)ANEC facilitates trainings, workshops and open forum discussions

on nonviolent strategies to help resolve disagreements and differences at all levels 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 and many more benefits for volunteers.LOCATION: No. 262, 1st floor, Khajanchi -Mohalla, Khunyara Rd, Lower Dharamshala PHONE: 98051-47048 / 94180-94476EMAIL: [email protected], Facebook: Anec Peace

National Democratic Party of TibetThe NDPT is currently the only Tibetan political party. With 5000 members in 36 regional chapters throughout the world, the main aim and objectives of the NDPT are to prepare for the establishment of a political party in a 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.orgLOCATION: Dharamshala–176219EMAIL: [email protected]: 9882787633 / 9882673330

around town

BUS SCHEDULE* Times and prices may vary.

Please check with the bus stand ahead of departure.

Leaving from the McLeod Ganj bus stand, unless otherwise stated: DELHI: Ordinary Bus: 4:45am, 6pm, 6:45pm, 8:15pm and 8:30pm (Rs524) Semi Deluxe Bus: 6pm (Rs544) , Full Deluxe Bus: (Rs683) AC Volvo Semi-Sleeper: 8pm (Rs1121) AC TATA: 4pm (Rs830)

AMRITSAR: Ordinary Bus: 5am (Rs223) *from Dharamshala

DEHRADUN: Ordinary Bus: 8pm (Rs524); AC Deluxe: 2pm (Rs664) MANALI: Ordinary Bus: 7:10am (Rs676) *from Dharamshala

PATHANKOT: Ordinary Bus: 10am, 11am, 12:10pm, 12:30pm, 2:10pm, 3:50pm, 5pm(Rs150)

SHIMLA: Ordinary Bus: 5am, 5:30am, 6am, 8am, noon and 4:55pm (Rs360) *from Dharamshala, Semi-Deluxe Bus: 8:22am, 7:45pm and 9:30pm (Rs450) *from Dharamshala FOR BOOKINGS: Location: Ticket stand under McLLo’s, McLeod Ganj Main square Hours: 10am-5pm, daily Phone: 220026 (McLeod bus stand), 224903 (Dharamshala) For deluxe buses, book through any travel agency.

TAXISA private taxi to Lower Dharamshala will cost you Rs 200. Cram into a jeep (from the bus stand), and it’ll

only cost you Rs15.

Ambulance: 01892-102, 222189Tibetan Delek Hospital Location: Gangchen Kyishong, CTAHours: Outpatient services: 9am-1pm, Mon-Sat; Specialist clinics: 2-4:30pm, Wed only; Emergencies: 24-hrs, daily.Phone: 222 053,223 381

Kangra Airport: 01892-232374

Bhagsu Taxi Union: 01892-221034

Tourism Office: 01892-224430 , 223325

Rail Booking & Enquiry: 01892-265026

Police Superintendent: 01892-222244

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

McLeod Ganj Post OfficeLocation: Jogiwara Rd, past Peace CafeHours: 9:30am-1pm and 2-5pm, Mon-Fri; 9:30am-noon, Sat. Parcels and money orders can be sent in the mornings only. Phone: 01892-221 924

IMPORTANT CONTACTS


activities & tourist info

lAnGuAGes

Tibetan Language CoursesWEB: www.thosamling.comLOCATION: Thosamling Institute, Sidhpur (near Norbulingka) PHONE: 9882455065EMAIL: [email protected] ad on opp. page for more information

Rita Thakur Hindi ClassesLOCATION: Ketan Lodge, Jogiwara Rd, beside the Korean RestaurantPHONE: 981-649-4732

Hindi Lessons with SunilLOCATION: Kunga Guesthouse, Bhagsu Rd and in DharamkotPHONE: 01892-21942, 941-818-7281EMAIL: [email protected]

Tibetan LanguageLOCATION: The Tibetan LibrarySee Buddhist Philosophy Listing

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

Tibetan with Pema YoudonLOCATION: Jogiwara Rd, opposite post officeHOURS: 1:00-4:00pm, or leave a message.

Esukhia Online Tibetan Courses and Tibetan Immersion SpokenLOCATION:Tilak Ray Building, Bhagsu RdWEB: www.esukhia.orgPHONE: 8679502538 / 9882004965 EMAIL: [email protected]

Om Yoga, Meditation and Reiki CentreLOCATION: Ketan Lodge, behind Akash Hotel, on Jogiwara Rd - Map #11HOURS: 8:00am-5:30pmPHONE: 980-569-3514

Sunita Singh Yoga ClassLOCATION: Singh Corner, nr Magic TreeUpper Bhagsu (see ad on pg 19)PHONE: 9805889060WEB: www.maashakktiyoga.com

Siddhartha Retreat and Yoga CentreLOCATION: Upper Bhagsu (see ad on pg 20)PHONE: 098165-65138WEB: www.siddharthayogacentre.org

Nature Cure Health ClubShiatsu massageLOCATION: Near Tibetan Ashoka, Jogiwara RoadPHONE: 941-813-0119EMAIL: [email protected]

Men-Tsee-Khang LOCATION: Mcleod Ganj Branch Clinic, 1st floor, Tipa Road (2 mins from Main Square)PHONE: 98828-60505EMAIL: [email protected]

Traditional Thai MassageLOCATION: Opposite the Himachal Govt. Tourist Information Centre, Hotel Surya RdPHONE: 981-633-9199EMAIL: [email protected] [email protected]

MAssAGe

Indian Cooking and Knitting with Ms Rita KapoorLOCATION: Old German Bakery, 1st Floor, Room No. 2, Opp. Buddha Hall, BhagsunagPHONE: 94592 06586

Lha Tibetan Cooking School LOCATION: Lha Office, Temple RdHOURS: Registration, 9:00-11:00amPHONE: 01892-20992

Indian Cooking ClassesLOCATION:Jogiwara Rd, next to Tibetan Ashoka GuesthouseHOURS: 10:00am-6:00pmPHONE: 941-813-0119EMAIL: [email protected]

Lhamo’s Kitchen: Tibetan Cooking ClassesLOCATION: Bhagsu Rd, near the Green ShopHOURS: 8:00am-9:00pmPHONE: 981-646-8719

Nisha’s Indian Cooking ClassLOCATION: Hotel Lotus Leaf, Jogiwara RdHOURS: 4:00-6:00pmEMAIL: [email protected]

Sangye’s Kitchen: Traditional Tibetan Cooking ClassesLOCATION: Lung-ta Restaurant, below the Tashi Choeling Monastery on Jogiwara RoadHOURS:10:00am - 4:00pmPHONE: 981-616-4540EMAIL: [email protected]

cooKinG

Library of Tibetan Works and ArchivesWEB: www.ltwa.net/libraryLOCATION: Gangchen Kyishong, between McLeod Ganj and Lower DharamshalaHOURS: Mon-Sat: 9-10 am, 11-12noonPHONE: 921-842-2467

Public Audience with HH KarmapaWEB: www.kagyuoffice.orgLOCATION: Sidhpur HOURS: Wed & Sat: 2:30pmPHONE: 01892-235307

BUDDHIST PHILOSOPHY

YOGA AND REIKI

Nov 11-13:HH the Dalai Lama’s teachingon Nagarjuna’s Precious Garland of the Middle Way (uma rinchen trengwa) at Tsuglakhang

Nov 13: Lhabab Duechen Buddha Shakyamuni’s Descent from Heaven

Dec 10: Nobel Peace Prize Day Commemoration of the Nobel Peace Prize to His Holiness the Dalai Lama

Dec 10: International Human Rights Day

UPCOMING EVENTS

Tibet MuseumLOCATION:Near the Main Temple and the Namgyal Monastery gate, McLeod GanjHOURS: Tue-Sun: 9:00am-5:00pm

Tibet Photo Exhibit: 50 Years of Struggle and Oppression LOCATION: Gu-Chu-Sum hall, Jogiwara RdHOURS: Mon, Wed & Fri: 2:00pm-5:00pm

The Tibetan Institute for the Performing Arts (TIPA)WEB: www.tibetanarts.orgLOCATION: Tipa Road, McLeod GanjPHONE: 1892-221478EMAIL: [email protected]

Kangra Art MuseumLOCATION: Near Bus Stand, Kotwali BazaarPHONE: 01892 224214HOURS: Tue-Sun: 10am-1pm & 2pm-5pm

Men-Tsee-Khang MuseumLOCATION: Near CTA, Gangchen KyishongPHONE: 01892-223222 / 223113EMAIL: [email protected]: 9am-5pm. Closed on Sun, 2 and 4th Sat

Form Gallery LOCATION: Jogiwara Rd. near Oasis CafePHONE: 8894-060602HOURS: Daily, 12:00pm-6:00pm

Om Yoga, Meditation and Reiki CentreWEB: www.omyogaindia.comLOCATION: Ketan Lodge, Jogiwara RoadPHONE: 980-569-3514 EMAIL: [email protected]

Tushita Meditation CenterWEB: www.tushita.infoLOCATION: DharamkotHOURS: Mon-Sat: 9:30-11:30am PHONE: 0898-816-0988EMAIL: [email protected]

Vipassana MeditationWEB: www.sikhara.dhamma.orgLOCATION: DharamkotHOURS: Mon-Sat: 4:00-5:00pmPHONE: 01892-21309EMAIL: [email protected]

Siddhartha Retreat CentreWEB: www.siddharthayogacentre.orgLOCATION: Bhagsu Nag, Near High Sky PHONE: 09816565138EMAIL: [email protected]

School of Life and SpiritualityMeditation and teachers’ trainingLOCATION: behind Hotel Akashdeep, Bhagsu, Mcleod Ganj, please call before comingWEB: www.devom.orgPHONE: 09569221047, 09971608310EMAIL: [email protected]

MEDITATION

ART AND MUSEUMS


activities & news

Perfect 32 Dental ClinicDr Natasha MehraLOCATION: Near Hotel Mount View, Jogiwara Road, McLeod GanjPHONE: 09218742046EMAIL: [email protected]

Dadon Physiotherapy Clinic LOCATION: 310, Geden Choeling Nunnery, Jogiwara Road, Mcleod GanjHOURS: 9am - 7pmPHONE: 9882323598EMAIL: [email protected]

Dr Kumar Ayurvedic and PanchkarmaWEB: www.kumarayurveda.comLOCATION: Hotel Surya Rd., opposite the Club HouseHOURS: 9:00am-2:00pm & 2:30-7:00pm; Emergencies: 24 hrs dailyPHONE: 8894492837EMAIL: [email protected]

Maanav Health ClinicLOCATION: Main SquareHOURS: 10:00am-12:30pm and 2:00-5:00pmPHONE: 941-815-5795EMAIL: [email protected]

Men-Tsee-Khang LOCATION: Below Delek Hospital, Gangchen Kyishong, Dharamshala 176215 PHONE: 01892-223222 / 223113EMAIL: [email protected]

Primary Health CentreLOCATION: Jogiwara Rd, main marketHOURS: 9:30am-4pm, Mon-Sat

Nature Cure Health Club LOCATION: Jogiwara Rd, next to Tibetan Ashoka Guest House-Map #10HOURS: 9:30am-6:30pmPHONE: 94181-30119 / 97363-33888EMAIL: [email protected]

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

heAlth serVices

THOSAMLING’s Tibetan Language Program 2014/15

THOSAMLING INSTITUTE For International Buddhist [email protected] • www.thosamling.com • Sidhpur • 176057 Dharamsala • mob 9882455065

MODULE 1Beginner Course5 Jan – 27 Feb 20155 days/week, total 4.5hrs/day.Start with the alphabet and learnto read and write basic Tibetanin two weeks. Audio and videomaterials help students progressas quickly as possible.

MODULE 2Intermediate Course27 Oct – 19 Dec 20145 days/week, total 4.5hrs/day.Main focus is on colloquial Tibetanand first stages of developingliterary Tibetan skills using simpletexts. Private time with teachersis available.

MODULE 3Dharma Language Course5 Jan – 27 Feb 20155 days/week, total 2.5hrs/day.Main focus is on literary/colloquialTibetan. We work with audio mater-ials, transcripts and translations oforal teachings and their root textsto deepen understandings.

MODULE 4Introduction to Debate13 Oct – 19 Dec 20145 days/week, total 2.5hrs/day& afternoon debate sessions.Debate opens many doors to theDharma and sharpensthe mind. Registrationfor all coursesis open !The courses are f ree for Sangha .

For a minimum of five people coming from McLeod Ganj: inexpensive daily transport can be arranged.

Standing in SolidarityName: Rohini KejriwalVolunteer Job at Lha: Writer for Contact and English tutor

acknowledge my being an Indian woman who genuinely wanted to know their stories and help them express themselves. But those were quickly replaced by days when I got positive feedback, when I saw a curiosity being sparked in my student.

Occasional talks discussing the present Tibetan scenario; helping with some social media problems or running Prof Rinpoche’s account; each experience was as special as the other. Not to mention my lovely editor (who recently assigned me a really interesting story to work on about the Chinese president’s visit to India) Dukthen: 2 years in a newspaper and I hardly felt like I was making a difference and 2 days at Lha and I could already see the change.

Each day at Lha was a special one, be it for some fascinating interaction with one of the new volunteers or getting an opportunity to stand in solidarity with Tibet and hold their flag during the Indian Independence Day celebrations at the town square.

I’m truly grateful to the entire team at Lha for allowing me to experience everything I did with the intensity that I did. Tibet deserves to be free and from wherever I am in the future, I will support you in every way possible. I’m going to be back very soon :)

One of the toughest decisions I made in my life was to quit my job as a journalist at a well respected English daily. Luckily for me, Lha and the experience of Tibetan culture changed everything. I found myself high up in the gorgeous state of Himachal Pradesh, teaching English to a wonderful 29-year-old called Karma (who loved the story of Little Red Riding Hood and Clifford the big red dog!), asking nuns how they feel about being bald and receiving intriguing answers and spending an hour every evening talking to people from Tibet about their notions of home, belonging and family.

Despite words being what I’m supposed to be good at, it’s hard to sum up the experience of Lha as a volunteer. My month at Lha was as much about receiving and learning as about giving and teaching.

It amazed me to find that for some of the young people living in Dharamsala, who have never been to Tibet nor escaped from it, the idea of freedom was exactly the same as the angry refugee who walked for days to enter India. I discovered facts that previously seemed like fiction but that could be nothing but the truth after hearing the voices and looking into the eyes of the storyteller.

There were tough days, when the group I sat with refused to


information and news

Hong Kong: No End in SightBy Annapurna MellorThe month-long protests in Hong Kong have continued throughout October with protesters still occupying the streets and demanding democracy for Hong Kong. China refuses to back down on their decision to screen candidates for the 2017 elections for Chief Executive in Hong Kong.

Protesters have insisted that the only solution is for the Hong Kong local government to fight for their rights against China. They also demand

the resignation of current Chief Executive Leung Chun-ying, who has failed to show any support for Hong Kong’s right to democracy and has encouraged protesters to back down.

Hong Kong protesters are demanding their right to “a high degree of autonomy” from China, with “one country, two systems”, as promised when the British handed Hong Kong back to China in 1997. Protesters, often numbering over 10,000, are sleeping on the streets.

Talks have taken place between the Hong Kong government and student protest leaders, and there was talk of a vote on how to proceed. However, it was cancelled at the last minute.

With no sign of China reconsidering, some protesters are struggling to see a suitable resolution. Protester Jo Tai told the Guardian UK “I think we should think about our plan and think about whether to retreat. We can’t occupy the streets with no time limitations”.

The TYC Celebrates 45 Yearsexpression, freedom of movement and destruction of the fragile Tibetan environment through rampant mining activities and deforestation.”

They declared their intention to “leave no stone unturned to prepare

and struggle for the cause of Tibet rather than hope for someone else to solve the issue.”

Historically, tensions exist within

the movement as the TYC has chosen explicitly to campaign for total independence rather than supporting HH the Dalai Lama and the Central Tibetan Administration’s Middle-Way Approach. However, conscious of the dangers of divisive action they began their anniversary statement with “deepest respects” to His Holiness.

Tenzing Jigme, President of the TYC, said “these are tough times for the Tibetan movement but we are a strong and resilient group of people. The Chinese government will never be able to break the will and spirit of the Tibetan people”.

By Daisy HughesThe Tibetan Youth Congress (TYC) celebrated its 45th anniversary on October 7 with a call to Tibetan young people “to participate in protests and campaigns to intensify the Tibetan movement and make it more effective on the global stage.” The TYC was founded in 1970 and now stands as the largest pro-independence group in exile, with 35,000 active members.

In their anniversary statement, the TYC condemned China’s “abuse of basic human rights of the Tibetan people by denying Tibetans their freedom of religion, freedom of

Goods on show at the LTFT showroomPhoto: Lha

Lha invites you to visit our newly-established Lha Tibet Fair Trade (LTFT) store. The store sells traditional Tibetan goods made by local craftspeople and is

located on the floor below the Lha office on Temple Road in McLeod Ganj.

Through LTFT, Lha aims to promote awareness and appreciation of Tibetan culture while providing a source of income for local artists and craftspeople to improve their standard of living.In addition, the store supports Lha’s many charitable projects, helping us to become more sustainable and self-sufficient.

LTFT acts as a certified co-operative, offering a wide range of handmade Tibetan craftworks - from handloom textiles to jewellery, home décor and personal accessories to traditional Tibetan art. LTFT is a licensed manufacturer, retailer, importer, exporter, and wholesale company. We welcome enquiries from any businesses

wishing to form partnerships and set up exhibition tours.

For more information, please visit the LTFT website:

www.tibetfairtrade.com

Handmade books and boxes which are made with recycled paper

Photo: Lha


SEVEN HILLS OF DOKEBI

KOREAN RESTAURANT

Pure Korean Food AvailableFor both Veg & Non Veg

We serve special Kimbab (Sushi)For every day veg, tuna, avocado,

And many other naturally Korean foodsKimchi, Bulgogi, Very Clean & Delicious!!!

Also good MusicClassics, Jazz, Pop, Korean &

we have nice fireplace

Open 10:00am ~ Closed 10:00pmLocated on Jogiwara Road-Map #12

Mobile: 98055 83234Near the Japanese Restaurant

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Nature Cure Health Clubwith Mahinder Kapoor

Jogiwara Rd, next to Tibetan Ashoka Guest House - Map # 7, Mobile: 07833047078 or 09882320136 Email: [email protected],

12 years’ experience & recommended by the Lonely Planet Visit us for: Swedish massage courses & treatment, Zen Shiatsu courses, treatment,

reflexology treatment, SPA , Singing Bowl Treatment, steambaths, sauna & mud baths.Our teacher has experience teaching in Israel.

Learn Hindi...the quick and easy way with an

experienced teacherBeginner, intermediate and advanced

Contact: Om Yoga Meditation CentreKetan Lodge, Jogiwara Road.

Map # 12Tel. 9816494732

www.omyogaindia.com

Norbulingka InstitutePreserving Tibetan Culture

Voted the #1 attraction on Tripadvisor, Norbulingka is a must-see for any visitor to Dharamsala.

Take a tour of our workshops and observe master artists at work using centuries-old techniques.

Transport yourself to old Tibet and its unique architecture while exploring our magnificent temple and beautiful gardens.

Dine at Norling Café and taste authentic Tibetan dishes.

Stay at Norling House and experience the warmth of Tibetan hospitality.

Visit our shop where you will find a wide variety of the highest quality Tibetan arts and crafts, all created in our own

workshops.

Located just 30 minutes by taxi from McLeod Ganj, Norbulingka is an unforgettable experience for the whole family.

For more information go to: www.norbulingka.orgHours: 9:00- 5:30 every day. Workshops closed Sundays.

NK_AD_press_105mm_148.5mm.pdf 1 3/19/14 6:16 PM

HATHA, ASHTANGA, AND KUNDALINI YOGA

DAILY MEDITATION CLASS 7-8 AM AND 5:30-6:30PM

CERTIFIED BY YOGA ALLIANCE INTERNATIONAL AND INDIAN GOVERNMENT

DAILY YOGA CLASS8-9:30 AM AND 4-5:30 PM

REIKI I, II, III WITH TREATMENT

OM YOGA MEDITATION CENTERKETAN LODGE, JOGIWARA ROAD. TEL: 9805693514 - Map #12

EMAIL: [email protected] WEBSITE: WWW.OMYOGAINDIA.COM

OM YOGA CENTERTEACHER TRAINING

Leaving Dharamshala? Keep in touch with Tibetan

news and issues. Read Contact online at

www.contactmagazine.netEverything that’s in the printed Contact

and lots more!


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Jimmy’s Italian KitchenMain market, just opposite of prayer wheels on the

second floor. Jogiwara Road, McLeod - Map #6Contact: 9816124833

Come for fine Italian food, amazing views from the roof top terrace garden, live music, stylish decor & yummy desserts!

CARPE DIEMRESTAURANT & PIZZERIA

“Your Health is our Happiness”MEXICAN, ITALIAN, INDIAN, CHINESE,

CONTINENTAL, & THAI FOODHealthy hygiene, No MSG•Everything washed with sterilized water•Homemade muesli & homemade curd•Large variety of fresh juices•Wood-fired pizza oven & clay Tandoori oven•Relaxed atmosphere including roof top tables •& Japanese-style seating areaLive music every Sunday•

Located on Jogiwara Road,across from the Tibetan Reception Center

(down from Post Office) - Map #10

Are you reading this byChance?

Or was it destined…

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

Take a walk to….

KUNDALINIEsoteric Boutique

On hotel Surya Road, Mcleodganj - Map # 21

Result guaranteed life-style ideas & discussions at 6:00PM every eveningTuesday through Friday.

Reiki Meditation Healing, Crystals, Pashmina CarpetsEvery product a labor of love

HOTEL LADIES’ VENTURE“The most suitable place for foreigners, holidaymakers, honeymooners,

trekkers, and those who wish to commune with nature!”

We offer: Affordable dormitories, well-appointed rooms, boarding, and McLeod Ganj’s FINEST hospitality!

Jogiwara Road - Map #11Mobile - 981 623 5648 Hotel - 01892 22 1559

Our specialty: Chocolate Vegan cake, Gluten free cake, Fresh Coffe Beans, cappaccino, Chocolate chilli lollipop

9am to 7pm - Closed on MondayBelow “Black Magic Hotel” on Jogiwara Rd - Map # 8

Dream HolidaysSince 1998

Ground Floor of Asian Plaza Hotel, Main Square, McLeod Ganj (3rd office inside Mall) - Map #18

“let us be your dream holiday”+Worldwide Air Travel Arrangements - Lowest Fares

+Discounted domestic air tickets+AC/Non-AC cars/jeeps for tours, airport/train station transfers

+Rail tickets, hotel reservations + Trekking tours

phone: 01892-221469 / 220790, mobile: 98160-87878 / 94180-97149email: [email protected]

wesite: www.dreamholidayindia.com

The Vagabond Cafe

So come discover the Vagabond in you!

Drop in and soothe your senses with our delectable menu. Try the best of Indian food.

Dig into mouth melting pancakes, waffles, burgers and noodles. Try our ALL DAY BREAKFAST and listen to the best of

lounge music. Enjoy breathtaking views while sipping your tea/coffe or take it away with you.

Mount View complex, Temple Rd, Main MarketMcLeod Ganj - Map # 2

Contact#(0) 9501328866 / 9805224923

Enjoy traditional Taiwanese and Chinese cuisines in a Peaceful environment

Comfortable floor setting at Common GroundJust one minute from the Bus Stand,

behind Asian Plaza! McLeod Main Square, Map #3

Phone no. - 9418834896

Black Tent Cafécome for a taste of Tibetan culture

Breakfast, lunch and dinner; delicious coffeeHomemade food, authentic Tibetan dishes and western cuisine

All food washed in clean filtered water

Modern Tibetan Decoration with comfortable floor seatingBooks exchange, free high-speed wifi

Free movies on Saturdays at 7.30pmor anytime for groups

Live Tibetan music from 6.30pm every WednesdayWednesday is an auspicious day to preserve the Tibetan Culture

7.30am - 9.30pm : Contact: 8679533382email: [email protected] : fb: Blacktentcafe

Jogiwara Road (near post office), McLeod Ganj – Map # 9


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McLEOD GANJ

DHARAMKOT

Vipassana Centre

Tushita CentreTibetanChildren’sVillage (TCV)

Naddi Village

CanttPolicePost

Road to Dharamshala

Main Bazaar

TIPA

BHAGSU NAG

LhaMAIN

SQUARE

For Details See Advertisement Pages

13. 8 Auspicious Him View Hotel14. Namgyal Cafe15. Perfect 32 Dental Clinic16. Pema Thang Guest House17. Chonor House18. Dream Holidays Travel19. Crepe Pancake Hut20. Ahimsa House & Lha Soup Kitchen21. Kundalini22. Siddhartha Retreat Centre

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5 6 8

11

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1312

15

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Thank you for patronising our advertisers!

20

Road to Dharamshala

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1. Lha Headquarters 2. The Vagabond Cafe3. Common Ground Cafe4. Kunga Guest House and Nick’s Italian Restaurant5. (?!)6. Jimmy’s Italian Kitchen 7. Nature Cure Health Club8. Dr Mobile; Woeser Bakery9. Black Tent Cafe 10. Carpe Diem Restaurant11. Hotel Ladies’ Venture12. Seven Hills of Dokibe, Om Yoga Centre

22

Dr Mobile ShopYour Communication Partner

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

Black Magic Building (underground), Jogiwara Road, Map # 8 McLeod Ganj Phone: 9857011101

9

The Lha Reception and Orientation Service

Hate arriving in Delhi? We will meet you and look after you in Delhi, we’ll get you on the right bus to McLeod, then meet you

off the bus, help you with accommodation and show you around when you get here.

Phone: 01892-220992 Email: [email protected]

News:tibet.net - official website of the Central Tibetan Administration in exilerfa.org/english/news/tibet - Radio Free Asia’s mission is to provide accurate and timely news and information to Asian countries whose governments prohibit access to a free pressvoatibetanenglish.com - Voice of America’s Tibet pages - VOA is an international multimedia broadcasting service funded by the US government contactmagazine.net - Contact magazine onlinephayul.com - news on Tibetan issues guardian.co.uk/world/tibet - the UK Guardian newspaper’s Tibet pagesscmp.com/news/china - the South China Morning Post – one of the more independent news sources in China

Campaigning:tchrd.org - Tibetan Centre for Human Rights and Democracy - a non-government organisation and a research centre to protect the human rights of Tibetan people and promote the principles of democracytibetanyouthcongress.org - an international non-government organisation that advocates full independence for Tibet from Chinastudentsforafreetibet.org - a global grass roots group campaigning for full Tibetan independencesavetibet.org - international campaign for Tibet and a good resource for news, campaigns, fundraising and projectstibetnetwork.org/home - a coalition of more than 190 Tibet organisations dedicated to campaigning to end human rights violations in Tibet and restoring rights to the Tibetan people

Writings:highpeakspureearth.com/category/woeser - occasional translations of Woeser’s enormously popular blog

Tibet-Related Websites


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and RestaurantPema Thang Guest House

Charming, comfortable, and scrupulously clean;minutes from the Main Temple and McLeod Ganj Market; tucked away in a quiet street with a magnificent view of

the Kangra ValleyTibetan Musical Evenings

with Buffet Dinner on requestThe Yoga Hall is available on hire for yoga sessions,

small teachings, and meetings

Hotel Bhagsu Road, McLeod Ganj: Map #16Phone: 221871/221001 www.pemathang.net

Crepe Pancake Hut

Namgyal Cafe

The famous and popular Namgyal Cafe has merged with Om Hotel right off the main square - Map #14

Extensive vegetarian menu• Terrace dining with beautiful view• Best pizza in McLeod Ganj• Good music and friendly staff•

Open every day from 7:30 am to 9:30 pmMobile: 9857993308, 9816150562

Come to enjoy our carefully prepared vegetarian,deliciousvegan food

Veg burritoAvocado salsa

Homemade kumbucha

Wonderful cakes and much more! Relaxing reading room, Wifi,

fantastic view and facilities

Jogiwara Road, Opp. Mount-View Guesthouse, Map #19

Mobile: 8628813700

NEED A DENTIST?

For all your dental requirements under one roof... In a sterile and

state of the art clinic

CONTACTNear Hotel Mount View

Jogiwara Rd, McLeod Map# 15Call: 09218742046

Email:[email protected]

contact newsletter

འབྲེལ་གཏུགས་གསར་འཕྲིན།

Managing DirectorNgawang Rabgyal

Editor-in-ChiefJenny James

EditorDukthen Kyi

Assistant EditorTsering Wangdue

Layout DesignTamdin Yangzom

Circulation ManagerLobsang Rabsel

Published byLha Charitable Trust

Web: www.lhasocialwork.orgwww.contactmagazine.net

Phone: 91(0)1892-220992Email:[email protected]: ContactNewsTwitter: @ContactTibet

Printed at Imperial Printing, Dharamshala Phone: 222390

Chonor HouseChonor 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: 221815Talented artisans from Norbulingka Institute create all of our designs.

Phone: +91(0)1 892 221 006/221 468 Fax: +91 (0) 1892 220815Email: [email protected]

Website: www.norbulingkahotels.com

Dr Natasha Mehta@

Perfect 32 Dental Clinic

ADDRESS: Siddhartha Yoga Centre, Upper Bhagsu NagNear High Sky Contact: 09816565138 - Map # 22

www.siddharthayogacentre.org [email protected]

Siddhartha Retreat

Retreat in NatureMon & Thur 9am

3 -10 Days Yoga Pranayam Meditation

Everyday 9-11 am6pm Meditation

Saturday 9-11 am Introduction

Yoga Teacher Training

Ayurvedic Massage Healing

Neelkanth Ayurvedic café: Fresh Ayurvedic

healthy food.

8 AUSPICIOUSHIM VIEW HOTEL

Located below Ghu Chu Sum Movement at Jogiwara Road. We have 8 beautiful, well-decorated rooms w ith 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 (Map #13)Email: [email protected]

KUNGAGUEST HOUSE

Spacious rooms with views over the valley, and...

NICK’S ITALIANRESTAURANT

Home baked cakes, quiches, pies, pastas, cheese, & Italian favourites served on our mas-

sive terrace.We also have on sale theRigpa Tibetan CalendarBhagsu Road - Map #4

Phone: 221 180

YOURAD

This space could be

Contact the office on:

981 61 555 23

Documents

Contact October 2014