FICCI FLO, under the leadership of the 43rd National President, Ms. Puja Garg, hosted a “Three-day Retreat to Dharamshala,” bringing together Delhi members for an immersive experience rooted in spirituality, culture, and connection. Set against the backdrop of the Kangra Valley, the retreat offered members a thoughtfully curated blend of Tibetan Heritage, Himalayan Wellness, and meaningful engagement.
The journey kicked off with participants’ arrival at the Hotel Hyatt Regency, Dharamshala, carrying a renewed sense of purpose and camaraderie. 36 participants, including National President Ms. Puja Garg, Governing Body (GB) members, and FLO members, explored the spiritual and cultural essence of McLeodganj, known as Little Lhasa due to its deep Tibetan influence.
The group visited the Tsuglagkhang Complex, the official residence of His Holiness the Dalai Lama and a prominent centre of Tibetan Buddhism. They experienced a profound sense of peace while participating in chants, rituals, and blessing ceremonies. The retreat included curated experiential activities such as Thangka painting, pottery at Andretta- a historic artists’ colony, and tea tasting sessions in Palampur.
Key Highlights Of Retreat
Day 1: Arrival & Cultural Immersion
The retreat commenced with the arrival and welcome of members at Hotel Hyatt Regency, Dharmshala, Himachal Pradesh. The group then proceeded to McLeodganj and Chonor House. They explored the Dharamkot market and enjoyed traditional Tibetan music and dance performances, setting the tone for a culturally immersive experience.
Day 2: Spiritual Awakening & Artistic Exploration
The next day, members, along with the National President, visited Tsuglagkhang Complex to seek the blessings of His Holiness, the Dalai Lama. FLO members experienced spiritual tranquility and a deeply serene atmosphere after meeting with Dalai Lama. This meeting left a lasting emotional impact on the members.
The group later explored Norbulingka Institute which is dedicated to preserving Tibetan art and culture. A guided walkthrough and participation in a Thangka painting workshop provided members with hands-on experience in traditional Tibetan craftsmanship.
Day 3: Cultural Exploration & Experiential Learning
The final day began with a visit to the Chamunda Temple in Palampur for offering prayers. Then, Delhi members explored the region’s tea estates and experienced a guided plantation walk and a tea tasting session at Wah Tea Estate, Palampur. Attendees got the opportunity to gain insights into the legacy of Kangra tea.
Then, the group visited the village of Andretta Pottery in the Kangra Valley. They were introduced to local ceramic artists and participated in hands-on pottery sessions. They created their own handcrafted pieces and gained a symbolic learning that —just like clay—leadership requires patience, adaptability, and precision.
The day concluded with a traditional Himachali Dham lunch, celebrating regional flavours and community traditions. The incredible retreat culminated in a memorable riverside gala dinner with live music at a boutique resort in Jia Village, marking a perfect finale to the journey.
Key Takeaways
- A deeply enriching and memorable experience for the members.
- Emphasizing the importance of mindfulness in leadership.
- The retreat fostered stronger bonds and camaraderie among the group, strengthening member engagement.
- A spiritual uplifting journey through blessings at Tsuglagkang Complex, McLeod Ganj.
- Enhanced appreciation of Tibetan culture, heritage, and resilience.
- Immersive exposure to Kangra Valley’s art forms, including pottery and Thangka painting. Learning patience and adaptability with Andretta Pottery.
- Holistic engagement through cultural, spiritual, and experiential activities.
Impact & Outcome
For FICCI FLO Delhi members, the retreat served as a break from their daily routine and an opportunity to pause and reconnect with themselves. It offered attendees a diverse array of experiences that combined cultural enrichment, professional development, and relaxation.
Members described the experience as “deeply rejuvenating” and “a perfect blend of spirituality and cultural immersion.” Overall, the retreat left participants inspired, rejuvenated, and more closely connected as a community.
The retreat successfully aligned with FICCI FLO’s vision of holistic member development by integrating wellness, cultural engagement, and leadership bonding into a single experience.