dharmashala


a dharmashala (or dharamshala), etymologically, means ‘a religious school’. however, the word is generally used in a different context. most (big) hindu (and buddhist) temples in india offer lodging and/or dining facilities for interested individuals or small parties. they are either free (running on donations) or for a very nominal rate. you may donate to the temple to cover your charges if there are any.

such a facility is called a dharamshala. it is characterized by spartanic (sometimes unclean and pest-ridden) furnishings and quiet and peaceful surroundings. there may be a school under the temple administration in the same locality dispensing hindu teachings.

‘dharamshala’ is essentially a sanskrit/hindi word. it is similar to the word ‘madarsa’ used by muslims; ‘madarsa’ however, actually being an islamic religious school where the holy koran is taught.

etymology: dharma = ‘religion’ + shaalaa = ‘school’
during most of our trip through northern india, we ate at roadside hotels and stayed in dharmashalas.

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