Dharamshala

(“abode of dharma”) A no-frills rest
house for pilgrims. Dharamshalas
were often built by pious donors (this
was endowed as a religious act), to
provide pilgrims not only with a basic
place to stay during their pilgrimage,
but also a place with a wholesome
religious atmosphere. The facilities at
a dharamshala are generally quite
basic, and well below the standard set
by a hotel—in many cases it is a nearly
bare room in which the pilgrims cook,
eat, and sleep, often on their own bedding. Until well into the twentieth
century, pilgrims were under no obligation to pay anything for staying,
although on departing they were
expected to leave a donation according to their means and inclination. In
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Dhanga
most cases dharamshalas now have set
rates for lodging, but they are always
cheaper than hotels since the amenities tend to be less. There is also a
marked difference in their general
atmosphere and clientele. Most
dharamshalas still strive to promote
and maintain a wholesome religious
atmosphere: by having a temple in the
building; by holding worship in the
morning, evening, and on special occasions; and by sponsoring scriptural
readings, lectures, and other religious
activities. These activities help to create
a religious community, and those who
are seeking this during their journey
will strive to stay in such places.