Dharmalaya Institute, Bir
Perched on a mountaintop in the Himalayan foothills on the outskirts of Bir in Himachal Pradesh, the Dharmalaya Institute offers a living experience of compassionate and sustainable living. The beautiful forested campus weaves together earthen building, organic farming, and mindful ways of life—rooted in four guiding ethical principles: Ahimsa (non-harming), Maitri (loving-kindness), Karuna (compassion), and Seva (service).
This will be our second time hosting the course at Dharmalaya. Our last immersion left our bodies, minds, hearts, and bellies nourished. We felt held by the land as we dreamed up new possibilities as a community, listened to stories, sang and learned nati, the local dance, around the fire, watched the sunset in silence each evening, and connected with the land and cultural wisdom—with the care, support, and wisdom of the incredible Dharmalaya team. We’ll be staying in dormitory-style accommodation and tents on the vegan eco-campus. Dharmalaya is a space that resonates deeply with our values of sustainability and care for self, land, and community, and we’re so looking forward to returning.
Practicalities
How do I get to Bir?
To get to Bir, Himachal Pradesh, you have several options. By air, fly to Kangra Airport (Gaggal), the nearest airport, about 70 km from Bir, then hire a taxi or take a bus. By train, the nearest major stations are Pathankot (about 142 km) or Amb Andaura (about 128 km); from there, take a bus or taxi to Bir. By bus, there are several direct overnight Volvo buses from Delhi (ISBT Kashmiri Gate or Majnu Ka Tilla); we recommend Laxmi Holidays or HRTC. Alternatively, take a bus to Dharamshala or Baijnath and then a local bus or taxi to Bir. One month prior, we create a WhatsApp group for travel coordination and taxi sharing.
What will the food be like? What about dietary needs?
Food is important! For reasons of compassion, ecology and health, the Dharmalaya campus is 100% vegan, meaning it serves 100% plant-based vegetarian food, free from all animal products (eggs, dairy, honey, etc.). We are happy to discuss options for people who have dietary restrictions and preferences over the 1-on-1 call prior to the program.
Accommodation
We’ll be staying in dormitory-style accommodation and tents on the vegan eco-campus.
Feel called to walk this path?
Share your details and we’ll send an invitation to our next information session — a chance to meet the team and ask anything before you decide.