Tibetan Refugee Self-Help Centre — Attraction in West Bengal

Tibetan Refugee Self Help Centre in Darjeeling, India is a rehabilitation centre for the Tibetan refugees in the Darjeeling Himalayan hill region. It was established on 2 October 1959, after they followed Dalai Lama and escaped from Tibet. The production of Tibetan handicraft is the centre's main activity.

Situated at Lebong and locally known as Hermitage, the Tibetan Refugee Self Help Centre (TRSHC) came into existence on 2 October 1959. In 1959, funds raised from local charity led to the starting of this centre by Zhu Dan (wife of Gyalo Thondup). The place initially provided emergency relief to Tibetan refugees who had come through a hazardous trek over the Himalayas into India. The Hill-side had a special significance for Tibetans, because of the fact that Thirteenth Dalai Lama had spent his exile in India from 1910 to 1912 following the Chinese invasion of Tibet at that time.

"It was within this view that a ten member committee was formed in Darjeeling to organise a rehabilitation centre to be known at the TIBETAN REFUGEE SELF HELP CENTRE. The founding members of the committee were: Mrs. Gyalo Thondup, President, Mr. T. Lawang, Mr. G. Tesur, Mr. Tenzing Norgay, Mr, & Mrs. Joksari, Mr. T. Tethong, Monsignor Benjamin, Mr. Chumbay Tsering and Miss Tesur. Later we had the pleasure of welcoming the following new members into the committee: Mrs. Laden-la, Col. & Mrs. Thapa and Mr. Dilip Bose."

The centre was registered as charitable organization under the act of Government of India. Starting off with just four workers, today the centre is the home for 130 Tibetan family. The centre has been a part of multifarious activities which ranges from handicrafts, training of artisans, and craftsmen. These activities are primarily to the care of the sick, elders and needy destitute. The Centre now comprises one créche, one nursery school along with a pre-primary school (up to +2 standard).

started on 1 October 1959 production of handicrafts is the centre's main activity June 1960, the Centre started a small...

Tibetan Refugee Self Help Centre is a rehabilitation Centre for the Tibetan refugees in Darjeeling. It was established on 2 October 1959, after they followed Dalai Lama and escaped from Tibet.The production of Tibetan handicraft is the centre's main activity. The Centre opens from Monday to Saturday between 9 in the morning till 5 in the evening.

You will see tibetan men and women making exquisite hand crafted items like woolen shawls & carpets, carved wooden crafts, leather jackets, coats and lots of other items. They have a training center that imparts skills to the new workers. Production of handcrafted items is the main activity of the center and its earning source. They export the items to as many as 36 countries all over the world. The Hill side center is the main unit and is known as the factory complex. They also have a Head Office at Gandhi Road in Darjeeling Town center and several other operations. As part of their welfare program, the center also runs a 20 bedded hospital. They have an X-ray and a Pathological clinic at their office premises. A dental clinic was opened at the Head Office premises in...

The Tibetan Refugee Self-Help Centre is an incredible place that offers a profound glimpse into the resilience, culture, and craftsmanship of the Tibetan people. The center, nestled in the serene hills of Darjeeling, is both educational and deeply moving.

What stood out to me the most was the dedication of the staff and the artisans, who work with such passion and skill to keep their traditions alive. You can observe traditional handicrafts like carpet weaving, wood carving, and thangka painting—all of which are done by hand with extraordinary care and expertise.

The museum on-site gives a humbling perspective on the history of Tibetan refugees, their struggles, and their journey. It’s not just a place to buy souvenirs but a space to reflect and appreciate their resilience.

The peaceful surroundings and the kindness of the people here make the experience even more special. Whether you're looking to learn more about Tibetan culture, support a good cause, or simply spend time in a tranquil environment, the Tibetan Refugee Self-Help Centre is well worth the visit.

Highly recommended for anyone...