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Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso has designed three special Study Programs for the systematic study and practice of Kadampa Buddhism that are especially suited to the modern world: the General Program, Foundation Program, and Teacher Training Program. Use the menu to find out more about these programs. Why we need to study There are three reasons … Read more

When in 1977, Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso accepted an invitation to come to the West and teach, a new era dawned for Kadampa Buddhism in this world. With the blessings of his Spiritual Guide, Kyabje Trijang Rinpoche, Geshe Kelsang took the essential meaning of Kadam Dharma and presented it in a way that could be … Read more

Kadampa Buddhism is a Mahayana Buddhist school founded by the great Indian Buddhist Master Atisha (AD 982-1054). In the word, ‘Kadampa’, ‘Ka’ refers to Buddha’s teachings, and ‘dam’ to Atisha’s special Lamrim instructions. Kadampas, then, are practitioners who regard Buddha’s teachings as personal instructions and put them into practice by following the instructions of Lamrim. … Read more

Buddhism is Buddha’s teachings and the inner experiences or realizations of these teachings. These have a timeless and universal relevance and can be practiced by anyone in any culture, regardless of race, gender, or age. Protection from suffering and problems By practicing Buddha’s teachings, or Dharma, we protect ourself from suffering and problems. All the … Read more

Like the Hotel Kadampas, World Peace Cafés also show the Buddhist faith exemplified through public service. Inspired by the vision of Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso, they exist to promote peace throughout the world. World Peace Cafés serve only vegetarian food. They provide a calm and relaxed environment in which to take a break or meet … Read more

International Retreat Centers are special centers that offer facilities for those wishing to do both long-term and short-term retreats. What is retreat? In Guide to Dakini Land, Geshe Kelsang explains: ‘On retreat we stop all forms of business and extraneous activities so as to emphasize a particular spiritual practice. There are three kinds of retreat: … Read more

A Kadampa Meditation Centre (KMC) is a special Kadampa Dharma Center that serves the local, national, and international communities. Besides offering a full program of courses to the local community, KMCs host major gatherings such as Dharma Celebrations, National Festivals, and International Festivals. KMCs are also home to the International Kadampa Temples, special buildings dedicated … Read more

A Kadampa Buddhist Center is a place where people can improve their understanding and experience of Buddha’s teachings through study, practice and the observance of moral discipline. Dharma means ‘protection’. By practicing Buddha’s teachings we protect ourself from suffering and problems. All the problems we experience during daily life originate in ignorance, and the method … Read more

There are Kadampa Centers and branches in countries around the world where people can study and practice the teachings of Buddha. Find a center These centers are open to everyone and offer a full program of introductory classes, study programs, and meditation retreats. Non-profit organizations All Kadampa centers are non-profit organizations dedicated to benefiting their … Read more

Venerable Geshe Kelsang has described the International Temples Project as ‘a beautiful gift for future generations.’ We are extremely fortunate to have such a special opportunity to make a contribution to world peace. There are many ways in which you can help the International Temples Project:   Visit an International Center Offer a working visit … Read more