Dharmalaya Institute

Dharmalaya Institute is a nonprofit educational organization and eco-campus located in Ghornala Village near Bir, Himachal Pradesh. The institute focuses on sustainable living, natural building, permaculture, and compassionate service-learning. Founded as a charitable society, it features earthen architecture designed by Didi Contractor and offers workshops, retreats, and volunteer programs centered on ecological sustainability and traditional wisdom.

Visitors can expect to explore a six-acre eco-campus featuring mud-built structures using rammed earth, cob, stone, and bamboo construction techniques. The campus showcases sustainable living solutions including organic gardens, permaculture design, and natural building demonstrations. Visitors can observe the main building designed by architect Didi Contractor, learn about eco-friendly practices, and engage with the institute's work in environmental stewardship and community development through guided tours by appointment.

The institute represents a neo-traditional approach combining traditional Indian ethical principles of compassion (karuna), non-harming (ahimsa), loving kindness (maitri/metta), and service (seva) with modern sustainable development practices. It serves as an educational model for integrating ecological responsibility with contemplative practices and community-oriented living in the Himalayan region.