Dating back to 1915 the Tibetan Refugee Self Help Centre was set up to give refuge to the Tibetans who fled to India during the Tibet China war. Following the historic event of Dalai Lama’s escape, he was followed by hundreds of Tibetans. This centre was mainly set up for their rehabilitation by the Indian Government. Employment and educational institutes were created for the refugees within the centre.
The Tibetan Refugee Self Help Centre is one of the top places in Darjeeling to pick up souvenirs and gift items. The store inside the campus has on display a wide array of handcrafted items from artifacts to woolen garments, and show pieces.
There is also a carpet weaving centre here, where tourists can witness the art of carpet making. Besides being a shopping zone, there is also a monastery inside the refugee centre where people worship through chants and prayers every morning and evening.