Guided tour to Andretta Artists' Village & Norah Richards' home

Dharamsala , India

Guided tour to Andretta Artists' Village & Norah Richards' home

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(3 reviews)

4h - 5h

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About this experience

During this tour you will get to know about the history of the estate and a brief description about how tea is grown, manufactured, sorted and tasted. Also learn some interesting facts associated with Andretta, a village and an artists' colony in Himachal Pradesh. The artists' colony was established in the 1920s, when Irish theatre artiste and environmentalist, Norah Richards, shifted here from Lahore. Here you will get a chance to see a range of original works of the artist as well as some of his personal belonging and working art pottery making attractive earthenware with rangoli style slip designs.

Available options

Tour cost with Transportation

Pickup included

Guide and Transport

Pickup included

What's included

Local English Speaking Guide - (Option 2 Only).

Pick up,drop off and Sightseeing by car

All Taxes

Entrances fees included for Tea Factory visit and Tea tasting Demo session.

Detailed itinerary

Our guide or driver will come to pick up you from hotel as per scheduled time and proceed for Andretta Artists' VIllage Tour.

The tour will start with a presentation about the history of the estate and a brief description about how tea is grown, manufactured, sorted and tasted. This is followed by a walk around the plantation with a tour guide, who will provide information on how the bushes are grown and looked after. You can learn about plucking and try your hand at plucking 'two leaves and a bud'.This is followed by the factory visit, where you will be able to learn the process of tea manufacturing with explanations of the withering, rolling, fermenting, drying and sorting processes and interact with the workers.Lastly, experience a Tea Tasting session where you can discover the different flavours, appearance and aroma of various grades of tea manufactured at Wah, throughout the season.

After having deep knowledge about kangra tea,lets proceed towards Andretta village.Andretta is a village and an artists' colony in Himachal Pradesh. The artists' colony was established in the 1920s, when Irish theatre artiste and environmentalist, Norah Richards, shifted here from Lahore.Near Palampur in the Kangra District, with Dhauladhar range of the Himalayas as a backdrop, Andretta over the years has attracted many noted artists, theatre practitioners, painters and more recently potter's.
First we will visit Sardar Sobha Singh art gallery, a well-known contemporary painter, started his painting career in Andretta.At the art gallery, one can see a range of original works of the artist as well as some of his personal belongings.

Norah Richards was an actress and theatre practitioner born on 29th October 1876 in Ireland. She devoted 60 years of her life to enriching the area’s culture. She was later referred to as the Lady Gregory of Punjab.

Finally visit, Andretta Pottery and Craft Society - This is a working art pottery making attractive earthenware with rangoli style slip designs. The pottery offers 3 month classes for students. Also attached to the pottery is a Terracotta Museum. While the main collection in this museum is the work of local village potters from the neighbouring parts, the museum also has a house collection of pottery from around the globe including several works from Mexico, England and Holland.
Here it comes to an end after having cultural and historical knowledge. Your driver will drop you at a hotel.

What's not included

Any personal Expense

Lunch,Breakfast or dinner

Tea Factory Demo + Soubha Singh Art Gallery

Pottery Demo (Optional)

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 4.7

3 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Dharamsala

Dharamsala is a serene hill station in Himachal Pradesh, known as the home of the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan government-in-exile. It's a spiritual haven nestled in the Himalayas, offering a blend of Tibetan culture, Buddhist teachings, and breathtaking natural beauty.

Top Attractions

McLeod Ganj

McLeod Ganj is the upper part of Dharamsala and the home of the Dalai Lama. It's a vibrant hub of Tibetan culture, with monasteries, shops, and restaurants.

Cultural Half day to full day Free to explore, entry fees for some attractions

Bhagsu Nag

Bhagsu Nag is a picturesque village near McLeod Ganj, known for its waterfall, temples, and cafes. It's a popular spot for backpackers and nature lovers.

Cultural Half day Free to explore, entry fees for some attractions

Dalai Lama Temple (Tsuglagkhang Complex)

The Tsuglagkhang Complex is the heart of Tibetan Buddhism in Dharamsala. It houses the Dalai Lama's residence, the Dalai Lama Temple, and the Tibetan Museum.

Religious 1-2 hours Free entry to the temple, ₹100 for the museum

Triund Trek

The Triund Trek is a popular and relatively easy trek starting from McLeod Ganj. It offers stunning views of the Dhauladhar range and the Kangra Valley.

Adventure Full day (4-5 hours trek) Free

Kangra Valley

The Kangra Valley is a scenic valley in the Himalayas, known for its tea gardens, temples, and historic sites. It's a great place for nature lovers and history buffs.

Nature Full day Free to explore, entry fees for some attractions

Must-Try Local Dishes

Thukpa

A hearty Tibetan noodle soup with vegetables, meat, or eggs. It's a popular dish in Dharamsala, especially during the cold months.

Main Course Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available

Momos

Steamed or fried Tibetan dumplings filled with vegetables, meat, or cheese. They are a popular street food in Dharamsala.

Snack Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available

Dal Baati Churma

A classic Rajasthani dish consisting of lentils (dal), baked wheat balls (baati), and a sweet crumbled dessert (churma). It's a must-try in Dharamsala.

Main Course Vegetarian

Chang

A traditional Tibetan beer made from barley. It's a popular drink in Dharamsala and is often served in local restaurants and cafes.

Drink Alcoholic

Popular Activities

Trekking Paragliding Mountain biking Rafting Yoga and meditation Tea tasting Spa and wellness treatments Nature walks

Best Time to Visit

March to June, September to November

This is the best time to visit Dharamsala due to pleasant weather and clear skies. It's ideal for sightseeing, trekking, and exploring the outdoors.

15°C to 30°C 59°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Hindi, English
Widely spoken: Pahari (local dialect), Tibetan
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Indian Rupee (INR)

Time Zone

GMT+5:30

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Dharamsala is generally safe for travelers, but it's always important to stay alert and take precautions, especially in crowded areas and at night. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and scams, can occur, so it's essential to be vigilant and protect your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help or services.
• Use reputable tour operators and guides.
• Keep your valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings.

Getting there

By air

Gaggal Airport (Kangra Airport) • 15 km (9.3 miles) from Dharamsala

By train

Pathankot Railway Station, Chakki Bank Railway Station

By bus

Dharamsala Bus Stand, McLeod Ganj Bus Stand

Getting around

Public transport

Local buses are the most common and affordable way to get around Dharamsala. They connect major areas like Dharamsala, McLeod Ganj, and Bhagsu Nag.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Ola

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

McLeod Ganj Bhagsu Nag Dharamsala Town

Day trips

Palampur

35 km (22 miles) from Dharamsala • Half day to full day

Palampur is a picturesque town known for its tea gardens, temples, and historic sites. It's a great place for nature lovers and history buffs.

Bir and Billing

70 km (43 miles) from Dharamsala • Full day to overnight

Bir and Billing are twin towns known for their paragliding opportunities, monasteries, and natural beauty. Bir is a small town with a Tibetan colony, while Billing is a higher altitude town with stunning views.

Kangra Fort

20 km (12.4 miles) from Dharamsala • Half day

Kangra Fort is one of the oldest and largest forts in India, with a rich history and stunning architecture. It's a great place for history buffs and those interested in ancient Indian culture.

Festivals

Losar (Tibetan New Year) • February or March (varies by lunar calendar) Saka Dawa • May or June (full moon day of the fourth lunar month) Dharamsala International Film Festival (DIFF) • November

Pro tips

Visit the Tsuglagkhang Complex early in the morning for a peaceful and spiritual experience.
Try Tibetan butter tea at a local café for a unique and authentic taste of Tibetan culture.
Hire a local guide for trekking and cultural experiences to gain insights and support the local community.
Carry cash, as ATMs may not be available in remote areas, and card acceptance is limited.
Dress in layers, as temperatures can vary significantly throughout the day and night.