Hello:)

Welcome to Dharamkot Studio, a community art space and ceramic / Pottery studio nestled at an altitude of 6900 ft. in the serene hills of Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh, India.
It’s a place to learn, create, share and celebrate the joy of art. Art enthusiast can join us for pottery retreats, workshops and courses.
Our studio offers a warm and inspiring environment to dive into the ceramic arts.
Professional ceramicists and multidisciplinary artists can join our residency program. Dharamkot Studio provides a fully-equipped space with materials and optional accommodation, making it an ideal spot to hone your craft or explore new projects through our art residency program.
Located in the charming village of Dharamkot, Dharamshala, India.
Our pottery studio invites you to experience the beauty of the mountains while connecting with a community that shares your passion for art.

Pottery Retreat

(5 Days Residential)

This 5 days pottery retreat offers a unique opportunity to step away from the rush of everyday life and immerse yourself in the calming rhythm of creativity. The process of shaping clay is deeply meditative, teaching patience, adaptability, and the joy of exploration. Set in a serene mountain location, this retreat is designed to help you recharge, reconnect with your artistic side, and find inspiration in nature and community. It’s more than just a getaway; it’s a chance to slow down, embrace the art of pottery, and create meaningful connections with like-minded individuals in a peaceful, inspiring environment..

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Workshops

(Residential/Non-Residential)

For those passionate about exploring ceramics, we offer 1–5 day workshops centered around wheel-throwing and hand-building techniques. These workshops cater to beginners and anyone looking to gain a solid introduction to pottery. Whether you can join for just one day or a few, you’ll enjoy hands-on sessions with expert guidance from our instructors. Each workshop is designed to provide individual attention, helping you learn the essentials of working with clay, from shaping to finishing.

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Courses

(Residential/Non-Residential)

This 5 weeks course is ideal for those passionate about pottery or ceramics and looking to pursue it as a profession or serious hobby. It is a full-time program that combines technical training with artistic education, guiding students through both foundational and advanced techniques. With a focus on hands-on learning and creative exploration, the course equips students with the skills and knowledge needed to refine their craft and develop their unique artistic style.

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Artist Residency Program

(1 to 3 Weeks Residential)

Designed for those seeking time and space to reconnect with their creative practice, the residency provides an ideal environment to recharge, explore, and experiment. Participants will have the chance to immerse themselves in breathtaking mountain landscapes while working within a collaborative and resourceful artistic community.
With flexible options ranging from 1 to 3 weeks, the residency allows artists to customize their stay, creating an experience that aligns with their personal and creative goals.

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AS SEEN ON:

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Medusa’s Gaze Vase (set of 2)

₹10,000.00

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Nature Essence Dome Lid Teapot

₹6,500.00

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Raging Pine Tea Bowl

₹1,600.00

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Blogs

From Clay to Art: Everything You Need to Know About Clay

by admin | Dec 18, 2024 | Art Retreat, Artist residency in India , Pottery Retreat

Clay, an ancient and versatile material, has been one of the most important creative mediums for humans for centuries. From tiles to bricks and pottery to sculptures, clay has been an integral part of human life. This guide explores everything beginners need to know...

What Did Our 5 Weeks Beginners Course Students Say About Their Experience

by admin | Dec 13, 2024 | Art Retreat, Artist residency in India , Pottery Retreat

The 5 Weeks Beginners course at Dharamkot Studio is designed for those who wish to learn pottery/ceramics and take it further as a profession or a serious hobby. The last batch of 5 Weeks Beginners course for 2024 was conducted between 8 Nov-12 Dec. In this article we...

Beyond the Pottery Wheel: A Beginner’s Guide to Ceramic Mold Making

by Parneet Pahwa | Dec 11, 2024 | Art Retreat, Artist residency in India , Pottery Retreat

Ceramic mold making opens up endless potential for creative expression. Not only does ceramic mold making enable you to repeat a form over and over again, it also makes individual forms lose their preciousness, which frees you up to experiment more! Making your own...

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Testimonials

Dharamkot Studio

4.8

Based on 363 reviews

08:19 20 Nov 24

08:19 20 Nov 24

08:10 20 Nov 24

Took an amazing 5 day wheel throwing workshop. My instructor Kapil was awesome and very patient with me. I actually managed to make vessel and will be able to continue creating pieces in the future.

Nili Abrahams

08:10 20 Nov 24

Took an amazing 5 day wheel throwing workshop. My instructor Kapil was awesome and very patient with me. I actually managed to make vessel and will be able to continue creating pieces in the future.

Clarisse Garnier

10:14 12 Nov 24

Very warm welcome, good staff. I took part in a 2-hour course: very enriching for a first! I recommend.

Clarisse Garnier

10:14 12 Nov 24

Very warm welcome, good staff. I took part in a 2-hour course: very enriching for a first! I recommend.

Christine Favreau

06:51 12 Nov 24

I only took a 2 hour class in this pottery workshop, without a 5 day retreat, and even though it was short, it was a great experience:The place is magnificent and the teachers are always available to help and explain, a great time, thank you very much!

Christine Favreau

06:51 12 Nov 24

Stéphanie Robin

05:47 12 Nov 24

This place is amazing for adults as well as for kids to open their creativity. Different workshops can be done depending on the time you have in front of you, from 2hours to 5 weeks course. I really recommend this place and the cafe’s food is the cherry on the cake 😉

Stéphanie Robin

05:47 12 Nov 24

Neelam 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 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 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 Chowdhury

08:28 18 Oct 24

לילך וישנבסקי

10:59 17 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.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 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 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 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 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 Chakrabarti

06:24 16 Apr 24

Sabishi 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 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.

Grey

12:57 29 Feb 24

Yoga 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 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 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 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. 🙂

	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) - 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM: You will begin the day with guided meditation in Dharamkot. On returning, you will be served a sumptuous breakfast in our cafe. At around 11:30 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. The first workshop will continue till 2:00 PM. Then you will break for lunch. We recommend that after lunch, you take it some time for yourself and relax. Post-lunch rest, you will take the second workshop from the above two starting from 4:00 PM to 6:30 PM, 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 (11:00 AM TO 1:30 PM) 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) - 9:00 AM TO 10:00 AM: You will begin the day with sound-healing or yoga at one of the many renowned centres 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. The first workshop will be scheduled from 11:30 AM to 2:00 PM. 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. This will start from 4:00 PM and continue till 6:30 PM. 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) - 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM: 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. 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 from 11:30 AM to 2:00 PM. 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.

INCLUDED	NOT INCLUDED
5 nights accommodation, Room cleaning and linen change on Sunday and can also be done upon your request. Toiletries available on request. Packaged mineral drinking water for all days.	Airfare Taxi from / to the airport to/ from studio.
All meals (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner). We serve healthy, vegetarian and delicious Indian meals from organic vegetables sourced locally. Vegan or gluten-free food is also available on request.	Alcohol or anything else that you purchase or avail the services of during your stay.
Pottery Sessions	Courier charges for shipping Art pieces you create
Half- Day tour to Mcleodganj covering Dalai Lama Temple, St. John’s in the Wilderness Church and the Mcleodganj Market Vehicle where required.	Bank fee/ Money exchange fee/ Other payment charges Any other trips/plans that you make during the stay.
Nature walk, Yoga, Meditation/ sound healing Session	Laundry
Art Supplies	Anything not mentioned in the inclusions.

	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.

Inclusions	Exclusions
Accommodation all days	Pick-up & drop from the airport/bus stand
Lunch on Day 2 & Day 3	Meals
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.

Hello:)

Pottery Retreat

(5 Days Residential)

Workshops

(Residential/Non-Residential)

Courses

(Residential/Non-Residential)

Artist Residency Program

(1 to 3 Weeks Residential)

AS SEEN ON:

Shop

Medusa’s Gaze Vase (set of 2)

Nature Essence Dome Lid Teapot

Raging Pine Tea Bowl

Blogs

From Clay to Art: Everything You Need to Know About Clay

What Did Our 5 Weeks Beginners Course Students Say About Their Experience

Beyond the Pottery Wheel: A Beginner’s Guide to Ceramic Mold Making

Testimonials

dharamkotstudio

Itinerary

What's Included

Painting - Itinerary

Painting- What's Included