Frequently asked questions

Since the program has been conceived in a certain order where the earlier subjects prepare you for the later ones, it is best if you can attend all four years. 

However, if you cannot attend for the entire program, we will try to accommodate individual circumstances. 

Registration preference is given to those who have completed the previous module of the program.

Citizens of most countries outside of India will need to obtain a tourist visa before coming to India. 

With most long-term Indian Tourist Visas, you can stay in India for a maximum of 90 days at a time and up to 180 days total within a calendar year.

Please check the latest rules for visas for people from your country and plan accordingly so that you will be able to stay for the entirety of the program. 

https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/

Under government regulations, all foreigners need a Protected Area Permit (P.A.P.) to stay in Bir Tibetan Colony, within which Deer Park is located.

You can apply online for a PAP valid for up to 12 months (or the duration of your visa) via the Ministry of Home Affairs. 

In addition to scanned copies of passport, visa and passport photo, the online application also requires a recommendation letter from a monastery or other institution in the Tibetan Colony. Please note that Deer Park Institute can only issue this letter for persons confirmed to stay at Deer Park and attend programs or do retreat for the duration of the requested permit. If you do not have a recommendation letter, you can apply in person for PAP in Dharamsala or at the Home Ministry in Delhi (see above/below).

Apply online: https://papvt.mha.gov.in/

All foreigners intending to visit Tibetan Settlements/Camps in India may therefore apply online for PAP by logging in the Ministry’s website https://papvt.mha.gov.in/

Please note that any applications found incomplete shall be summarily rejected and no correspondence/reply shall be given by the Ministry.

All foreigners intending to visit Tibetan Settlements/Camps in India are requested to apply online for PAP at least one month prior to their arrival to India.

The fall schedule has not yet been posted. His Holiness the Dalai Lama does often does teach in Dharamsala just before or during this time period though. Please see https://www.dalailama.com/schedule for the latest schedule updates.

Yes, you are welcome to go out during your free time. Deer Park is within walking distance of several small shops, restaurants and cafes. 

The Deer Park kitchen offers simple wholesome vegetarian food. They are not able to accommodate other dietary requirements, nor can individual cooking facilities be provided. The weekly menu is shared in advance, and participants may choose which meals to take at Deer Park and which to have outside.

There are both chairs and cushions available. You're free to choose which you prefer.

We recommend bringing comfortable, modest clothing suitable for the setting of a dharma centre in Northern India. The temperatures will be cold during the winter.  Be sure to pack lots of warm layers such as a shawl, winter coat, sweaters, thick socks, and a beanie to stay comfortable. 

Please also bring a torch or headlight in cases of power outages, a water bottle or thermos (drinkable filtered water is provided), alarm clock, sandals for the shower, as well as soaps, shampoos, a towel, and sneakers.