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Creative Retreat

Hello:)

We’re a Community art space and Ceramic studio. It’s a place to learn, to practice, to share and to celebrate art. Art enthusiasts can take art retreats, workshops and courses in ceramic/pottery medium.
Professional ceramic artists and other medium artists can use the studio space, materials or accommodation.

The studio is located in Dharamkot Village, Dharmshala, Himachal Pradesh, India.

Art Retreat

(Residential)

If you want to take a creative break, where you could live in the nature and make your own art pieces, you can join 5 days creative retreat. 

Workshops

 (Non-Residential)

   If you are looking forward to  getting hands on experience or basic understanding of pottery you can attend workshop with one or two sessions in a day depending on your availability.

Courses

(Residential/Non-Residential)
This course is designed for those who wish to learn pottery/ceramics and take further as a professsion or a serious job.

Pottery Workshops 

Pottery Workshop Near Me

Introduction to Pottery

Duration– 2.5 hours 
Fees– INR 2500/per person 
Includes– taxes, all the materials and one glazed piece. 
Age– 16years +

FRI- 11am-1:30pm and 3pm-5:30pm
SAT- 11am-1:30pm and 3pm-5:30pm
SUN- 3pm-5:30pm  
MON- 11am-1:30pm and 3pm-5:30pm
TUE- 11am-1:30pm and 3pm-5:30pm

Introduction to pottery is the perfect workshop for those who wish to learn/understand all the basic aspects of pottery while making their own pottery pieces.

Details

This workshop starts with an introduction to pottery- where you will learn how a studio works, what are the different stages/techniques of making pottery.
In this workshop you will be making pottery with the hands which will includes different basic techniques like pinching, coiling and slab. Once the pieces are made you can make different textures or use colours to give it a unique look.

In this session you can make things like mug, bowl, platter, name plate, planter or wind chime etc.

Collecting your piece – After the workshop you can collect your piece from the studio after 6 days. This piece will be food safe and can be used as a functional pottery. If you are not able to collect it, we can ship it your address anywhere in India with extra charges of 300/-

Bookings – For the this workshop booking are open only for coming 60 days, for booking and any other query please whatsapp/call on +91 9805312554 (Vivek), advance reservation with full payment will be required.

Refund/cancellation
80% refund- 5 days before the workshop
50% refund – 3 days before the workshop
30% refund – 2 days before the worksop

Rescheduling-
No extra charges- 4 days before the workshop starts
30% extra charges- 0-3 days before the workshop starts

Pottery in Himachal

Pottery Wheel Experience

Duration– 2 hours  
Fees– INR 2200/ person 
Includes– taxes and all the materials. 
Age– 16years +

FRI- 11:30am-1:30pm and 3pm-5pm 
SAT- 11:30am-1:30pm and 3pm-5pm
SUN- 3:30pm-5:30pm  
MON- 11:30am-1:30pm and 3pm-5pm
TUE- 11:30pm-1:30pm and 3pm-5pm 

This session is based on the pottery wheel, which is one of the different techniques of making pottery.

Details

This session is based on the pottery wheel, which is one of the different techniques of making pottery. Instructors will give a short introduction and demonstrate how to work on pottery wheel then all the participants get to work on their wheels and instructors will be there through out the session for help.
Working on the pottery wheel is a skill which requires a lot of practice, but still as a beginner it will be fun experience for you and you will get the basics. With the instructor’s help you will be able to make some small shapes like mugs and bowls.

Collecting your piece – After the workshop you can take your wet pieces, there are no extra charges for it. You can take them carefully, colour them and put as decor piece. But these piece can not be used as a functional pottery and it dissolve in the water.

If you want these pieces to be glazed there will be extra charges of 500/pc. These pieces can be collected after 5 days from the studio.

If you are not able to collect it, we can ship it your address anywhere in India with extra charges of 300/pc. 

Bookings – For the day pass bookings are always open for coming 60 days, for booking and any other query please whatsapp/call on +91 9805312554 (Vivek), advance reservation with full payment will be required.

Refund/cancellation-
80% refund- 10 days before the workshop
50% refund – 7 days before the workshop
30% refund – 4 days before the worksop

Rescheduling-
No extra charges- 3 days before the workshop starts
30% extra charges- 0-2 days before the workshop starts

Pottery Classes

Art of Wheel Throwing (5 Days) 

Starts every Friday
Level– Beginners
Time –11AM- 1.30PM and 3pm-5:30pm
Total Duration – 12.5 HOURS
Fees (Non residential) –10600+18% GST/person (Including – taxes and all materials)
Fees (Residential) 29700+18% GST/person (including – taxes, materials, private room and all meals) stay option available till 15th March 2024 only
Age – 18years +

This five-day workshop is designed to propel beginners/ intermediate into the art of wheel throwing. Over this short timeframe, participants will progress carefully from foundational techniques to advanced skills, shaping a complete understanding of pottery creation on wheel. Perfect for individuals seeking a prompt yet detailed introduction to pottery, our condensed format ensures a solid foundation in wheel throwing.

Residency Program for Artists and Creatives

This is a program for artists/creatives, yearning for a serene retreat to nurture their creativity and reflect on their ideas.

View Details

Testimonials

Dharamkot Studio
4.8
Based on 348 reviews
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Neelam HemrajaniNeelam Hemrajani
13:13 27 Oct 24
Excellent teachers ambience food and quietude. The course was designed so well we were taught all that was promised looking forward to the residency programme. The meditation and nature trail sessions were great. Thanks to team Dharamkot studio. Sajan, Pragya, Manish, Neeraj, Sahil For looking after us so well.
Kritika KRIPALANIKritika KRIPALANI
15:27 19 Oct 24
Hello team dharamkot studio..This was my first ever pottery retreat ,I am so glad to have experienced such a lovely pottery class ..the most surreal,loving ,meditative,happy,beautiful experience.A big shout out to team dharamkot studio ,never seen so many happy loving people under one roof..u all are amazing bunch of creative people ..thank u for sharing ur knowledge n being patient in imparting the same. U all made me feel at home ,so comfortable n warm ..I will always cherish these beautiful 5 days that I spent with such amazing people n surroundings...u all are doing an amazing job..I wish u best of luck n hope to see u sometime again ❤️ loads of love from Kritika kripalani19/10/2024...
Anchal SrivastavaAnchal Srivastava
08:28 18 Oct 24
It's an amazing experience and well guided workshop. Instructor will guide you step by step. Worth doing it.
Vanashree ChowdhuryVanashree Chowdhury
08:28 18 Oct 24
An excellent studio for those who want to experience working with clay. Lovely and kind people.You can also just go to the painter and they will give you paints and papers.The cafe is excellent, everything we tasted was excellent.
Poojitha P.SPoojitha P.S
10:38 11 Sep 24
I recently attended a 5-day pottery retreat, and the experience exceeded all of my expectations. From the moment I arrived, I was welcomed with such warmth and kindness, creating a nurturing and creative atmosphere.The pottery sessions were both relaxing and challenging, giving us the freedom to explore our creativity while still learning new techniques. Whether you’re a beginner or more advanced, the instructors were incredibly patient and knowledgeable, guiding us through every step of the process.What made this retreat truly special, though, were the additional activities – the city tour, yoga sessions, sound healing, and nature walks – that provided a holistic experience. Each of these moments helped us unwind, reconnect with ourselves, and bond with the other participants. It was the perfect balance between creativity, relaxation, and mindfulness.The location was beautiful and peaceful, and every detail was well thought out. I left feeling recharged, inspired, and full of gratitude for the time spent there. I would highly recommend this retreat to anyone looking for a creative escape combined with inner peace.
Shambhavi UpadhyayaShambhavi Upadhyaya
09:19 10 Jul 24
What a beautiful, beautiful experience. I went to Dharamkot Studio for the week-long painting retreat, not knowing what to expect. I came out of it—5 days later—having experienced something magical.Dharamkot gives you the perfect taste of art, culture, nature, and community in all the right proportions. I learned a variety of local painting styles and techniques from stellar artists, each a master of their own craft. My accommodation was clean and comfortable, and had a spacious shared sit-out that offered spectacular views. Imagine waking up to the smell of pine and fresh air!! There are also ABUNDANT nature trails, markets, and cafes/restaurants to check out (sooo many quirky ones!), which made staying at Dharamkot even more delightful. I met some truly wonderful folks that week and had many, many inspiring conversations with them. Huge kudos to the Dharamkot Studio crew for putting together these retreats so thoughtfully.The time I spent there has genuinely awakened part of my soul. 🙂 I will be holding on to memories I made there for life.
Shilpa ColluruShilpa Colluru
05:11 30 Jun 24
Dharamkot Studio is a dream and the pottery retreat is one of the best things I signed up for this year. While learning a little about pottery, we went on long walks, attended morning meditations, did a walking tour and ate the best food ever. The location is perfect with not too much noise around and the views are spectacular. The teachers and everyone else at the studio are warm and friendly and ready to help in anyway that they can. I would love to go back again!
Margaret DevlinMargaret Devlin
11:13 24 Jun 24
I did the week long course/ retreat! I met some wonderful people at the studio! The food was a highlight for me! It was so healthy and very authentic. The teachers were all very knowledgeable & they made the process of learning new techniques efficient and fun 🤩 I felt very inspired & would be interested in coming again! I would recommend to everyone who is interested in making some artistic time for themselves! You will try new techniques, improve your craft, and you’ll want to continue practicing pottery much more!Also the studio retreat land is stunning! The views are incredible & peaceful.
Radhika GoenkaRadhika Goenka
14:06 20 Jun 24
It is the perfect place for a creative retreat. The location, the people, the art, the locals, the calm and the amazing food at the studio! I did the 5 day pottery retreat, and i did not just learn about pottery, but so many other things through this medium of creativity. The sightseeing and other activities included along with the retreat was a break which helped us get familiar with the natural beauty that Dharamkot and Dharamshala has to offer us.Left the place with a content heart, mind and soul. Thank you so much to the entire team at Dharamkot studio, for the enriching experience! 🙂
Siladitya ChakrabartiSiladitya Chakrabarti
06:24 16 Apr 24
Sabishi ShankarSabishi Shankar
06:19 06 Apr 24
Dharamkot Studio is an amazing studio in a beautiful location. The energy of the studio, including the instructors, the staff, the students is extremely positive and vibrant!Highly recommend for a unique holiday experience
RAM SHARMARAM SHARMA
08:22 09 Mar 24
I was here with my wife who for long time wanted to visit and join the classes. This time we made it and she got the experience of hands on. The atmosphere here is awesome to learn and she was really well trained as per her expectations. Would be visiting soon again with kids and will get to learn more next time.
GreyGrey
12:57 29 Feb 24
Yoga ElliYoga Elli
11:43 27 Jan 24
This is a wonderful place run by people who are genuinely passionate about pottery. I learned a lot there, the instructors are very generous with their time and really make sure that people get the most out of their session in a friendly atmosphere. 100% recommended!
Pranoy KanojiaPranoy Kanojia
05:43 18 Oct 23
This place has my heart. I have been here twice in the last two years and whenever I think of taking a break from my life in the city and away from my home studio - Dharamkot studio is always what comes to my mind. I went there first for a three week creative retreat where I was accommodated into their busy daily schedule very warmly. I was already a few courses into pottery by that time, but what I learnt at Dharamkot studio was to let go of my fears of clay and the egotistical and harmful pursuit of perfection. Clay is play and must be approached with surrender and love is what they taught me. The space is shaped by Manoj and Sadaiv and Vivek who themselves are self taught potters and have come a long way to build a space so warm and creative - they have nurtured other amazing talents in that same spirit like the super warm Pragya who is the heart of the place, the crazy and wickedly talented Kapil and the other permanent members, tutors and volunteers in that space.. I owe a big time to them for my journey into pottery and I recommend this space more than any others in the country when you want to just dabble with clay for the first time or to do an artist residency. They are never stern, never stuck up on any particular style, allow you to explore your relationship with clay even if it’s your first encounter with it and show you pathways of how you can truly express with it. They will take care of your pieces and kindly ship them to you in any part of the country once fired. Pottery is generally an expensive practice to learn but what Dharamkot Studios offers in their packages is unmatched and priceless. And mind you they are still less expensive than a lot of other spaces in the country without any pretence. I wish them all my heartiest blessings to be the space they have nurtured and created so well with their heart and that they build one of the foremost artist communities in the country. I consider them a family and it was heartening to see they welcomed me and my friends back to their fold after two years just like one of their own.
sakshi singhsakshi singh
08:08 07 Oct 23
I recently had the pleasure of participating in a 5-day pottery course at Dharamkot studio, and it truly exceeded all my expectations. The staff welcomed me with genuine warmth and friendliness. Their deep knowledge of pottery was readily apparent, and they were always eager to share their expertise, making the learning experience both enjoyable and informative.The course itself was exceptionally well-structured, with each day building upon the skills we had acquired in the previous sessions. The instructors struck the perfect balance between providing guidance and allowing us the creative freedom to explore. This approach not only helped me develop my skills but also made the learning process incredibly rewarding. What truly set this experience apart was the supportive and friendly atmosphere. The instructors' dedication to our success was evident throughout, making it an enjoyable journey of discovery.I can't recommend Dharamkot studio and their courses enough. My 5-day pottery adventure was both educational and fun, and I wholeheartedly encourage everyone to give it a try.
Susmitha VeganosaurusSusmitha Veganosaurus
02:57 09 Jun 23
I highly recommend experiencing Dharamkot Studio’s classes if you’re planning to visit the Dharamkot/McLeod area!I attended two very beautiful pottery making sessions! This was at their smaller studio and it’s a lovely place with lots of natural light and air.First was the hand building class with Pragya and Anjali. They’re both very attentive and gentle teachers, with their own unique styles. So much talent! They’d take turns giving personal attention to each participant so all of us benefited from both of their knowledge.Second session involved working on the pottery wheel. The introductory demonstration was done very nicely by Ananya. Then we all got to sit at our own wheels and begin working.Our teachers were Kapil and Abhinav. They were both kind and patient with all of us. Again with their own styles of teaching, taking turns to personally guide each student.Though the studio has fixed timings and everything, they’re also flexible when necessary. I have to thank Vivek for being so helpful with the process or booking, changing dates, collection of my pieces, etc. I only needed to reach out to him and he coordinated smoothly with everyone involved to make it seamless for us.Special thanks to Abhinav for coming in on their weekly holiday so I could collect my baked+glazed pieces. I truly appreciate it!I’m delighted with all the pottery pieces I made. 🙂
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ACTIVITY
Day 1 (Friday) - Today, you will arrive in the serene village of Dharamkot. We recommend you check-in to our Studio latest by 12PM, though checkin time is till 2PM.
After settling-in to your rooms, you will be served lunch at the cafeteria.
At 4 PM, you will start with your first workshop “An Introduction to Pottery”. This workshop will take about 2.5 to 3 hrs.
At night, you will indulge in dinner (possibly around a bonfire depending on weather) and then relax.
Day 2 (Saturday) - Today, you will start your day with a warm cup of tea & Nature Walk to Naddi. The trail meanders through the forests, offering stunning views of the valley below and the distant mountain ranges.
On returning, you will be served a sumptuous breakfast in our cafe.
At around 11 AM, you will head to the Studio for your second workshop. Today we will split the group in two batches for personalised attention to all participants. One group will attend the “Hand-building- pinching” workshop and the other will learn the “Intro to Pottery Wheel” workshop. Each workshop will take about 2.5 hrs.
Then you will break for lunch.
Post-lunch, you will take the second workshop from the above two, depending on what you did in the morning.
Wrap up your dinner at our cafe.
Day 3 (Sunday) - Today is a mix of learning and exploration!

After breakfast, you will attend the fourth workshop on “Texturing/Surface Decoration”.
Then after lunch, you will start your local sightseeing tour. Our expert local guides will take you to the Dalai Lama Temple, St. John’s in the Wilderness Church and the Mcleodganj Market. Take time to experience the spiritual energy of Dharamshala.
You can either return to the Studio with our guide in a cab which departs by 6 PM or stay longer and take a taxi back.
Dinner will be served in the evening but you can also explore one of the many restaurants/ bars in Mcleodganj.
Day 4 (Monday) - You will begin the day with yoga/meditation at one of the many renowned yoga studios in Dharamkot.

Then, head back to the Studio for breakfast and another day of pottery learning. You will now learn the advanced techniques in pottery making in your fifth and sixth art sessions.
We will again split the group in two batches for personalised attention to all participants. One group will attend the “Advanced Hand-building- Slab/coiling method” workshop and the other will learn the “Wheel Throwing/ Shaping Technique” workshop. Each workshop will take about 2.5 hrs.
Then you will break for lunch.
Post-lunch, you will take the second workshop from the above two, depending on what you did in the morning.
Wrap up your dinner at our cafe. By now you must have made friends with instructors and other participants, so we are sure you have some amazing conversations.
Day 5 (Tuesday) - You will begin the day with another session of yoga/meditation.
Then, head back to the Studio for breakfast. You will now attend the last and seventh art session on “ surface decoration with Coloured Under-Glazes”. The session will be of 2.5 hrs.
After lunch, you can spend the rest of the day at leisure. You can pick your favourite thing to do today…finish off your artwork with some guidance from our instructors, head out and take a hike, go shopping, spend a lazy day in a cafe, walk around the flag point for sunset…the choices are endless. We will see you back at the Studio at 7 PM for our farewell dinner.
Day 6 (Wednesday) - Today is the day we bid adieu! After breakfast, it’s time to pack up and gaze at the Dhauladhar range for one last time till we see you again. The check-out is at 11 AM.

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INCLUDEDNOT INCLUDED
5 nights accommodationAirfare
All meals (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner)Alcohol
Pottery Sessions Courier charges for shipping Art pieces you create
Half- Day tour to McleodgunjBank fee/ Money exchange fee/ Other payment charges
Nature walk, Yoga/Meditation SessionsLaundry
Art Supplies

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ACTIVITY
Day 1:
Arrive for check-in before 2 pm, allowing yourself to acclimate to the retreat atmosphere.
Explore your surroundings, connect with fellow participants, and commence your artistic journey with the first session from 4 pm to 6:30 pm(Charcoal).
Evening relaxation and dinner.
Day 2:
Wake up with leisure.
11:30 am: Your Thangka workshop will start.
Workshop will continue till 2:00 pm.

2:00 PM: Drive to Norbulingka.
Norbulingka is a self-sustaining community, where all members contribute to the larger vision of preserving Tibetan culture through the arts. It is a delight for travelers to see various Tibetan art forms such as paintings and woodwork.

Have lunch at one of the few restaurants at Norbulingka and explore the premises.
5:30 pm drive back to your hotel.
Evening relaxation and dinner.
Day 3:
(8:00 to 9:00 am) Start your day with yoga/meditation (8:00 to 9:00 am)
(11:00 am-1:30 pm) After breakfast, Acrylic pouring workshop at Dharamkot Studio- 2 (7 minutes walk from the hotel).
After lunch at the studio, you’ll meet your guide who’ll take you for a walk and exploration of Mcleodganj.
Take a beautiful walk around Dalai Lama Temple, explore cafes and shop if you wish.
Our guide will be with you till 6 pm.
After that, you can return to stay or get cozy in one of the many cafes of Mcleodganj.
The distance between Mcleodganj and your stay is just 2-3 km from the hotel.
Day 4:

(9:00 to 10:00 am) Start your day with yoga/meditation.
(11:30am to 3:00pm) Kangra Painting workshop

After the session, walk back to your stay, have lunch, and relax for a while.
(5:00- 6:30 pm) Nature hike to the sunset viewpoint with the guide.
Return to the comfort of your stay in the evening and then enjoy the night as you wish.
Day 5:
(8:30 to 9:30 am): Sound healing.
(11:00 am-1:30 pm) After breakfast, Paint on Pottery workshop at Dharamkot Studio- 1 (7 minutes walk from the hotel).
After the session, you’re free to explore and spend your day as you desire.
Indulge in walks, cafe hopping, or shopping.
Day 6:

As the retreat concludes, savor a moment to absorb the scenic beauty of the Dhauladhar ranges. Check-out is at 11 am after a satisfying breakfast.

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InclusionsExclusions
Accommodation all daysPick-up & drop from the airport/bus stand
Lunch on Day 2 & Day 3Meals
All workshops with materials Nothing not mentioned in the inclusions
Art pieces made during the workshops. Bank fee/ Money exchange fee/ Other payment charges
Activities such as Yoga, Meditation & Sound Healing
Laundry
Norbulingka Institute Visit and Mcleodganj Walk
Nature hike
Internal transfers
Guide where required.

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