Mid-range Boutique hotel · McLeodganj (Dharamshala)
Chonor House
A small Tibetan-style hotel on Temple Road in McLeodganj, built and run by the Norbulingka Institute, with rooms decorated with murals by Tibetan artists. Steps from the Tsuglagkhang temple and quieter than the main square.
Photo: Wonderlane · CC BY 4.0 · CommonsChonor House was built by the Norbulingka Institute, which trains Tibetan artists near Dharamshala, and the hotel showcases their work. Each room is decorated differently, with murals on Tibetan themes painted by Norbulingka artists, handwoven carpets and wooden furniture made in the institute's workshops. The building uses local stone and slate and sits on a slope among trees just off Temple Road, a short walk from the Dalai Lama's temple complex.
It is small, so book early, especially when public teachings are scheduled at the Tsuglagkhang. The restaurant serves Tibetan and Indian food, and the terraces look over the Kangra valley. It suits travellers who want character and a central location rather than resort facilities. Revenue supports the institute's work in keeping Tibetan arts alive.
Why we use it
- Rooms painted by Norbulingka's Tibetan artists
- Short walk to the Tsuglagkhang complex
- Revenue supports Tibetan arts
Best for
Trips that stay here
Sleep here on a trip
Photo: Ms Sarah Welch · CC0 · Commons
Comfort
Chamba, McLeodganj and Bir by private car
Private car with driver
Around the stay
McLeodganj (Dharamshala)
McLeodganj is upper Dharamshala at about 2,080 m, home of the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan community in exile since 1960. Spend two or three nights: the Tsuglagkhang temple, monk debates, the Triund hike and Norbulingka's workshops. Best March to June and late September to November; July and August are very wet.
Photo: (in search for a new country of residence) · CC BY-SA 2.0 · Commons
Tsuglagkhang temple and the monk debate
Walk the morning kora around the Dalai Lama's temple with Tibetan pilgrims, visit the main prayer hall and the Tibet Mu…
Photo: Ashish Gupta from Noida, India · CC BY 2.0 · Commons
Day hike to Triund ridge
Climb about 900 m from Galu temple above Dharamkot to the open ridge of Triund at roughly 2,850 m, with the Dhauladhar …
Photo: Bernard Gagnon · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Commons
Tibetan crafts at Norbulingka
Visit the Norbulingka Institute near Sidhpur, where Tibetan artists train in thangka painting, woodcarving, statue-maki…
Questions
About Chonor House
Who runs Chonor House?
Chonor House was built by and is run by the Norbulingka Institute, which preserves Tibetan arts and crafts in exile. Rooms are decorated with work by the institute's artists, and the hotel supports its activities.
How far is Chonor House from the Dalai Lama temple?
A few minutes' walk. It is on Temple Road, close to the Tsuglagkhang complex and Namgyal Monastery. Cars can reach the area, but the last stretch is narrow; staff can help with luggage.
Is Chonor House good for families?
It works for couples and small families who want a quiet, characterful stay. It is not a resort, so there are no pools or play areas. Some rooms are larger; ask when booking.
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