Phuntsokling: A Tibetan Haven in Odisha

Phuntsokling – meaning “Land of Happiness and Plenty” in Tibetan – is more than a place; it is a vibrant community, a cultural sanctuary, and a spiritual haven nestled in the green hills of Gajapati district, Odisha. Established in 1963 by Tibetan refugees who fled their homeland following the Chinese occupation, Phuntsokling has become one of the most remarkable examples of cultural preservation and peaceful coexistence in India.

Located amidst the scenic Eastern Ghats, at an altitude of over 3,000 feet, Phuntsokling is home to five Tibetan villages – Labarasingh, Mahendragarh, Tankilipadar, Chandragiri, and Jirang. These villages together form a close-knit settlement where Tibetan identity flourishes in harmony with Indian soil. Here, tradition lives not in museums or memory, but in the daily lives of the people – in their language, dress, food, prayer, and celebration.

A Story Rooted in Resilience

The brand of Phuntsokling is rooted in resilience, dignity, and devotion. When the first Tibetan families arrived in Odisha in the early 1960s, the land was wild and undeveloped. Through hard work and community spirit, they cultivated the area into what it is today – a place filled with laughter, learning, spirituality, and sustainable living.

Maize fields stretch across the hillsides, prayer flags flutter in the breeze, and the rhythm of life follows a pace where simplicity meets sacredness. Over the decades, with the help of the Indian government, global supporters, and their own deep faith, the people of Phuntsokling have built schools, monasteries, cooperatives, homes for elders, and more – all infused with Tibetan aesthetics and values.

Culture Carved in Everyday Life

Phuntsokling is a celebration of Tibetan culture in exile. Its people have preserved their mother tongue, traditional attire, and religious festivals with great care. From the colorful celebrations of Losar (Tibetan New Year) to the serene rituals of Buddhist prayer ceremonies, every event reflects the values of compassion, wisdom, and interconnectedness.

The settlement is home to five monasteries, the most famous being the Padmasambhava Mahavihara Monastery at Jirang. This architectural marvel, inaugurated by His Holiness the Dalai Lama in 2010, stands as a spiritual and cultural beacon not just for Tibetans, but for all who seek peace and knowledge. The monastery is surrounded by stupas, meditation halls, and golden statues, inviting both pilgrims and curious visitors to explore its serene beauty.

Modern Outlook with Traditional Roots

While deeply traditional, Phuntsokling is not frozen in time. It represents a brand that welcomes modernity without losing identity. Young people are encouraged to pursue education and participate in digital platforms, all while staying connected to their roots. Local cooperatives support families through sustainable trade, especially in handwoven carpets, Tibetan medicine, and other crafts.

The Phuntsokling brand values self-reliance, inclusiveness, and harmony. It is a place where visitors are greeted not as outsiders, but as friends. It invites people from all walks of life – spiritual seekers, researchers, tourists, students, or simply the curious – to learn about Tibetan history, beliefs, and daily life in an authentic and respectful way.

Girija Saklaini, an Indian sociologist, did exhaustive fieldwork and research on Tibetan refugees living in Dharamshala, Delhi and Dehradun (Northern India) and her findings are similarly positive. She wrote that Tibetans have, on the whole, “successfully emerged from a self-sufficient barter economy into a competitive economy, and have adjusted to the new situation which is a tribute to the Tibetan community in exile” (Saklaini, 1984: 216).

Paranormal and Spiritual Depth

A unique aspect of Phuntsokling is its connection to Tibetan spiritual and paranormal traditions. Tibetan Buddhism teaches that life continues beyond death, with states like the Bardo (intermediate realm) and concepts of karma and rebirth deeply influencing everyday actions. The community honors these beliefs through rituals, protective amulets, prayer flags, and spiritual offerings.

Stories of spirit beings, guardian deities, and mysterious signs are part of the oral tradition, often passed down by elders and monks. These are not superstitions, but symbolic teachings that guide people toward mindfulness, moral living, and spiritual awareness.

A Brand That Invites and Inspires

Phuntsokling stands today as a model of what is possible when faith meets perseverance, and tradition is carried forward with pride. Its brand is shaped by beauty, community, and spiritual purpose – where monasteries rise from the misty hills, where prayer wheels spin with the dreams of exiles, and where people live with dignity despite loss.

Through this website and ongoing engagement with the world, Phuntsokling seeks to share its story with everyone. Whether you're planning a visit, exploring Tibetan culture, or simply looking to connect with a peaceful way of life, Phuntsokling welcomes you.

Location Info

The Tibetan settlement in Odisha is located in Chandragiri, in the Gajapati district. It is also known as "Phuntsokling," which means "Land of Happiness and Plenty." The settlement was established in 1963 for Tibetan refugees who fled their homeland after the Chinese invasion in 1959.