tibetan monks tour uk

Tashi Lhunpo Monks

'Sacred Sounds from Tibet'. The dance and music of Tibetan monks from a monastery established in 1447 by the first Dalai Lama in the Gelugpa more...

September 2024

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2024 drepung gomang tibetan monks sacred arts tour.

Jan 11, 2024 | Events

Hosted by WellCome OM Integral Healing & Education Center

Join us from february 12 to february 17, 2024, for a journey of spiritual enrichment, cultural immersion, and compassionate connection., about the event:.

The WellCome OM Center is proud to host the revered Drepung Gomang Monks, who are direct disciples of the Dalai Lama. This six-day event is part of the annual Drepung Gomang Sacred Arts Tour , which travels across the United States to spread joy, compassion, and awareness of the Tibetan culture and its spiritual wisdom.

The Mission:

Aligned with the four-fold mission of the Drepung Gomang Monastery, this tour aims to:

• Contribute to World Healing and Peace: Through Tibetan Buddhist teachings, sacred performances, and chanting, we strive to share Tibet’s unique identity and cultural treasures.
• Offer Universal Prayers: In recognition of global tragedies, we join in sympathy and prayer, affirming our shared humanity and collective future.
• Raise Awareness of Tibetan Civilization: Highlighting the plight of Tibet under the challenges posed by the Communist Chinese since 1959, and the urgent need to preserve Tibetan culture and human rights.
• Support the Refugee Community: Your participation helps provide essential resources for food, health, hygiene, and education for the refugee monks in South India.

Event Highlights:

• World Peace Sand Mandala: Experience the creation and dissolution of a magnificent sand mandala, a symbol of impermanence and peace.
• Daily Blessings and Chantings: Begin and conclude each day with powerful spiritual ceremonies.
• Dharma Talks and Teachings: Gain insights into Tibetan Buddhism through engaging talks and teachings.
• Tibetan Artisan Marketplace: Discover authentic Tibetan crafts and arts.
• Workshops: Participate in Mala bead making, painting workshops, and more.
• Cultural Performances: Enjoy daily music by Hernando Arts and special literary performances.
• VIP Dinner: An exclusive opportunity to dine with the monks.

2024 Sacred Art Tour Group Schedule — Monday, February 12th

2024 sacred art tour group schedule — tuesday, february 13th, 2024 sacred art tour group schedule — wednesday, february 14th, 2024 sacred art tour group schedule — thursday, february 15th, 2024 sacred art tour group schedule — friday, february 16th, 2024 sacred art tour group schedule — saturday, february 17th, tickets and registration:.

• General admission is open to the public.
• Certain events are ticketed with limited capacity.

See Ticketed Sessions & Sign Up

Support the Cause:

Your participation and support directly contribute to the wellbeing and education of the refugee monks’ community. Embrace this opportunity to make a difference while enriching your own spiritual and cultural understanding.

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50th Anniversary Tour – Sacred Music and Cham Dance by Tibetan Monks from Tashi Lhunpo Monastery

The Tashi Lhunpo Monks are visiting the UK between May-August 2023 on a 50-date tour, commemorating fifty years since their Monastery was re-established in exile with concerts and sand mandala exhibitions.

The 50th anniversary concerts feature buddhist chants, masked dances in ceremonial costumes and ancient Tantric musical instruments, evoking the atmosphere of sacred Tibet. Performances also include spoken explanations of the significance and stories behind the dances and prayers, providing a fascinating glimpse into an ancient cultural tradition, far removed from modern Western society.

Founded in Tibet by the First Dalai Lama in 1447, Tashi Lhunpo Monastery was renowned for its scholarship of Mahayana philosophy and the Tantric tradition of Tibetan Buddhism. Following the Chinese invasion of Tibet, twenty elderly monks from Tashi Lhunpo escaped religious persecution and undertook a perilous trek across the Himalayas, where Tashi Lhunpo Monastery India was re-established in the early 1970s.

Fifty years on, Tashi Lhunpo Monastery in India is now home to over 400 monks and is once again becoming one of the most important centres of Buddhist learning.

The 50th anniversary tour begins Lighthouse Poole on Tuesday 2 May will be visiting venues in England, Scotland and Wales including dates with Music at Oxford, Newbury Spring Festival Roses Theatre, Tewkesbury Manchester Museum Kings Place Songlines, Howard Assembly Room, Universal Hall Promotions, Queen’s Theatre, Quay Arts, Ucheldre Holyhead Strode Theatre, New Theatre Peterborough, The Sidmouth Folk Festival.

For full details and booking links please visit: www.tashi-lhunpo.org.uk

China Must Return the Stolen Tibetan Child – The 11th Panchen Lama

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Visiting monasteries in Tibet

By Tibet specialist Duncan

Buddhism came to Tibet partly by way of a marriage. The 7th-century ruler Songtsen Gampo, Tibet’s most celebrated king, took both a Chinese and a Nepalese Buddhist princess as his wives. Today, Buddhism is the lifeblood of the region, bound up with much of what you might associate with Tibet — strings of prayer flags, mountaintop lamaseries and chanting, maroon-robed monks.

If you’re planning a tour of Tibet , visits to monasteries can give you a chance to witness the depth of Tibet’s spiritual life first-hand.

Why visit Tibet’s monasteries?

There are a few reasons for devoting a large portion of your visit to experiencing the monasteries. It’s interesting to see how highly monks are regarded by ordinary Tibetans, and it’s also intriguing to compare how monasteries differ in personality and feel, according to the particular sect of Buddhism followed by their occupants.

And, if you go to Tibet between the end of September and the end of December, you’ll visit monasteries alongside scores of pilgrims. Often farmers or nomads, they venture from the farthest corners of the region to reach the cities in time for Losar, Tibetan New Year.

Accompanying the faithful — many of whom are swathed in heavy travel garments and have walked for weeks to reach these monasteries — is almost a sensory experience. You might walk shoulder to shoulder, pressed together. You hear them uttering prayers under their breath, mumbling chants, shushing their children, and breathing in the incense-sweetened air.

You can read more on what to expect when visiting a monastery (and why they’re so beguiling) in my guide to experiencing Tibet

Some of the best monasteries to visit in Tibet

Drigung til monastery.

This complex, set on a steep hill, is admittedly remote. Getting there entails a four-hour round trip from Lhasa . But, because of its isolation, the monks here don’t see many visitors. When my guide, Tashi, and I arrived, they draped khatas (ceremonial scarves) around our necks as a welcome gesture.

What I like about this place is the chance you might get to walk around the monks’ living quarters. They’re an irregular tumble of dwellings, almost a miniature village, with smoke rising from little chimneys.

The mountain ridges around this monastery are also an important sky burial site. It’s a custom that can be a bit overwhelming for Western sensibilities, but for many Tibetans it remains the preferred form of funeral.

You’re not permitted to watch sky burials taking place, but you might see evidence of them: vultures circling, and coffins draped in sheets destined for the burial site.

Sera Monastery

Sera’s convenient location, just outside Lhasa, makes it a magnet for visitors, both Western and Chinese. Its main claim to fame are the debating sessions that take place, reliably, at a set time each day. Although you’ll likely be joined by a large group of fellow spectators, the debating isn’t a touristy gimmick — it’s part of the monks’ schooling.

You’ll see monks clapping and foot stamping as they make philosophical points to their opponent. The younger ones tend to be more theatrical and animated, while older sages sometimes sit with their eyes closed, nodding along.

Tidrum Nunnery

Nuns wear similar robes to monks and shave their heads, but they don’t share the suvc ame social status in Tibet.

At Tidrum, you can see the workings of a far-flung nunnery, which welcomes few visitors but is within a four-hour drive from Lhasa  (with the potential to stop en route at Drigung Til and passing semi-nomadic herder settlements on the approach).

Inside the nunnery, you might hear the sisters chanting, and you’ll also have the chance to walk the hillside overlooking the convent and its valley setting. It’s said Padmasambhava, the mythical forefather of Buddhism in Tibet, spent years meditating in a cave nearby, which you can step into as you explore.

Interestingly, all the images hanging on the nunnery walls are of men, including former lamas and the Panchen Lama.

Your room for the night is at a guesthouse in the valley, where you can bathe in hot springs frequented by locals, who claim the waters have medicinal properties.

Monastery etiquette

This is a bit of a misleading section — there’s actually little real etiquette for monastery visits, except to take off any hats and sunglasses before stepping inside and not to take photographs once inside. It’s also good practice to step over the doorsill without touching it, and to take a clockwise route around.

My advice is to take your cue from your guide (who always accompanies you on visits). I’ve had guides who were very relaxed, and others who doffed their hats and behaved reverentially toward the monks.

You might notice that Tibetan city dwellers from Lhasa are quite blasé around monks, whereas pilgrims from rural areas are very respectful.

You sometimes get to meet some of the monks. Everyone I’ve had the pleasure of meeting (save one rather cantankerous chap — ‘don’t mind him,’ my guide said, ‘he’s a hermit and not a fan of visitors’) was extremely warm.

Read more about trips to Tibet

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Tashi Lhunpo Monks: The Power of Compassion

Eight Tibetan monks bring this celebration of the rebuilding of their monastery in India and share this dazzling spiritual culture with us.

The Power of Compassion is a programme of masked dance, music and Tantric ritual.  This performance offers an insight into the mystical world of Tibet, featuring traditional Tibetan musical instruments, the sound of sacred mantras, and elaborate, colourful costumes.  The performance is accompanied by an explanation of the significance and stories behind the dances and prayers, and provides a fascinating glimpse into an ancient cultural tradition far removed from modern Western society.

Centre for the performing and visual arts in Anglesey, North Wales

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Tashi Lhunpo Monks of Tibet

Songlines encounters 2023.

For Songlines Encounters 2023, we are beyond excited to present Tibetan Buddhist monks from Tashi Lhunpo Monastery. They join us for a dramatic presentation of sacred music, dances, and prayers, with traditional costumes and ceremonial masks.

From the contemplative, mesmerising chant of Buddhist texts to swirling dances accompanied by ancient musical instruments, including long horns, bells and drums, the monks offer a fascinating glimpse into an ancient culture, with introductory explanations offering additional insight into this endangered world.

Founded by the first Dalai Lama in 1447 in Shigatse, Central Tibet, Tashi Lhunpo is one of the most important monasteries in the Tibetan Buddhist tradition and now re-established in exile in India.

‘…a psychedelic whirl of chanting, dancing, drums, cymbals…’ The Times

imes ‘…a window of time onto a magical universe of reincarnation and release…’ The Independent

The performance will last approximately 100 minutes.

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How to Visit a Monastery in Tibet

Explore Tibet guests at the Potala Palace, in Lhasa

An unavoidable and integral part of any tour to Tibet is visiting monasteries – the religious center of Tibetan life and culture . But for people who are unfamiliar with Tibetan Buddhist customs, it can be overwhelming and even a little intimidating the first time you walk into a monastery and wonder “What are all these people doing?” Well, fear not, read on, and find out some tips and rules for how to visit a monastery in Tibet.

Visiting a monastery or a temple is referred to in the Tibetan language as “Cho-jel”, meaning “To meet Dharma/Religion”. It’s an essential practice for Tibetan Buddhists, and especially important to do on particular auspicious days: the 8th, 10th, 15th, 25th, 29th, and 30th of each Tibetan lunar month.

Here are five tips for visiting monasteries and temples in Tibet, to help you understand what is happening around you, and to enable you to be a part of the practices too.

Table of Contents

1. Walk clockwise

In Tibetan Buddhism, clockwise is the “sacred direction”: patterns and designs feature clockwise-rotating swastika, shells with a clockwise-turning coil, and prayer wheels should always be spun clockwise. To do the opposite or go in the opposite direction implies that you follow Bon, Tibet’s ancient pre-Buddhist religion. Bon and Buddhism share many holy sites and practices, but a visual distinction between the two can be made depending which direction their followers walk.

When inside a monastery, you should always visit the rooms in a clockwise direction, starting to the left each time.

2. Remove hats, sunglasses

The top of the head is a holy part of the body, according to Tibetan custom, so to show your respect for the Buddhas inside the monastery hats and sunglasses should be removed before entering. Some chapels will require you to remove your shoes too, but this is less common.

3. Make offerings

There are many different types of offering that can be made in a temple: from simple one yuan note offerings in front of each Buddha, to spoonfuls of butter for the lamps, to white silk scarves (“kata”) for the main statues. Outside monasteries you may see people standing by with stacks of notes in their hand, here you can exchange a larger denomination (5 yuan or 10 yuan) note for a stack of ones, or a one yuan note for a stack of jiao (equivalent of ten cents). Do as the locals do and offer one of these small notes in front of each statue – the money goes into supporting the monastery’s maintenance. White scarves can be bought either outside the monastery or sometimes right in front of the statues to which you will offer them (such as in the Jokhang), and cost between two yuan to twenty yuan depending on the quality and your bargaining skills.

4. Offer prostrations or prayers

A common sight both inside and outside Tibetan monasteries is people offering prostrations – a full extension of their body face down on the ground in front of a shrine or statue (or sometimes around one, as a kora). This is a full-body act of devotion, showing utmost respect for the Buddha and dharma by literally putting yourself below them. Prayers are most common in the form of mantra, such as the famous “Om Mani Padme Hung” mantra of Chenriseg, the Bodhisattva of Compassion.

5. Take a picnic

Many Tibetan people will finish their trip to a monastery with a picnic or a relaxing stop at the local teahouse. Picnicking is a national sport in Tibet, and you’ll see families fully prepared with blankets, huge flasks of hot tea, multiple dishes of meat and vegetables, and sometimes games for entertainment. The monasteries outside the city are the best for picnicking such as Drak Yerpa, Ganden, and Tsurphu.

6. Bonus. Meet the Rinpoche

Many monasteries have a resident Rinpoche, Tulku, or Abbot whom one can request blessing from if they are available. When meeting a Rinpoche you can offer money or kata, similar to the offerings you would make to a statue of the Buddha, and it’s generally expected that you will also offer prostrations upon first entering the room. The Rinpoche may give you a blessed cotton string, medicine, or a kata in return.

An Explore Tibet guest visits Drepung Monastery

Explore Tibet guests meet monks at Drepung Monastery

Explore Tibet guests visit Drepung Monastery

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• Last Updated: 2023-10-13

Tibet is a holy land of Buddhism that attracted hundreds of tourists to travel to explore its profound Buddhist culture. In the past, the ratio was that 1 in 6 Tibetan men were Buddhist monks. Do you wanna know what the life-like of the mysterious Tibetan monks or have you ever imagined the inside picture of Buddhist monasteries?

Actually, Tibetan monks lead a simple and fairly peaceful life. By all means, They are dedicated to prayer and serving others and they will feel content and pleasure. Tibetan monks would never pursue the material comforts; their food is simple, involving some Tibetan bread, vegetables and loads of Tibetan tea . The Tibetan monks get along well with each other. Usually they joke with each other and talk with each other.

Monk in the Tibetan language is "trapa," which means “student” or “scholar." There are three kinds of Tibetan monks residents in the monastery, including monks, scholars, and lamas. Lamas are considered as spiritual guides and masters who teach meditation techniques to disciples. In Tibetan Buddhism, they are regarded as "living gods" who possess supernatural powers that can slay demons and bring good fortune, wealth and good health. Without a doubt, Tibetan monks play a significant role in the lives of the Tibetan people. They not only conduct religious ceremonies but also take care of the monasteries. 

The Scholastic Life of Tibetan Monks

Small monks start their scholastic life in the monastery where they will learn all the monastic disciplines, and customs in monasteries and learn how to spell Tibetan Buddhist mantras and recite some basic prayers. And they need to serve their mentor or master for 3 years. Besides, they are going to take care of the chores of the monastery. Later, they will begin to start the 5 Buddhist classics, including Buddhist Logic, Heart Sutra, Madhyamika, Monastic Discipline, and Kusha-shū. 

Each monk is given two commandments, the Sami at the age of 10 and the bhikkhu at the age of 20. Under the auspices of the high monk living Buddha, the ordained person makes a solemn oath in front of the sutras and Buddhas to abide by the precepts and practices for the sentient beings.

The Daily Life of Tibetan Monks

Lamas are students living in Tibetan areas. Through the accumulation of knowledge and faith, complete the "pilgrimage road" in life.

The life of the lama begins early in the morning. The lamas, led by their leaders, say morning prayers in the hall. The morning prayer lasts about 2-3 hours, during which, for three times, hundreds of young monks line up to pour butter tea and "tuba" porridge in the prayer hall. The monks eat and drink while chanting sutras, which is very interesting. After the morning praying, breakfast finishes. The next prayer is about 9 to 10 o 'clock, the lamas return to Zhacangs Hall to chant sutras and drink tea; At 3 or 4 o 'clock in the afternoon, each lama gathers in their Khangtsen (dorm) to chant sutras and drink tea.

In addition to the three prayer sessions, there are also three debate sessions per day.

In Tibetan monasteries, it is common for Tibetans to provide tea and porridge to monks. And in return, the monks chant the scripture for them. Monks would pray for happiness for a family or pray for rest and peace for a deceased family member. After the chanting, the related family would offer some money to the monks as a particular way of giving.

Tibetan Monks live the same life. They read Buddhist scriptures, turn prayer wheels, Kowtow day after day, year after year to practice their extremely devoted beliefs.

Most Tibetan monks live in 10 famous temples and monasteries such as the Jokhang Temple, Drepung Monastery, Sera Monastery, Tashilunpo Monastery, etc. You may have a glimpse of the top ten temples and monasteries in Tibet .

Living Buddhas

The reincarnation system of living Buddhas is the most noticeable feature that distinguishes Tibetan Buddhism from other Buddhist schools. Living Buddha refers to a monk who has made some achievements in religious practice. After the establishment of the living Buddha reincarnation system, it has become a common way of inheritance adopted by all sects of Tibetan Buddhism.

The daily life of a young living Buddha is similar to that of a high school student. Morning classes begin at 6 a.m., followed by sutras and Buddha worship. Every day before breakfast, they recite the Buddhist sutras. In the morning, they generally touch the top for the Buddha to bless the believers and then debate the sutras. After lunch, they have a half-hour lunch break, and in the afternoon they continue to follow the teacher. In the dusk, they would discuss scriptures with other monks and learn from each other. In the evening, they would do homework until late at night.

If you are paying a visit to a living Buddha, you may offer a Hada to the living Buddha. Please bow over your head and offer the Hada with both hands. Then the living Buddha will take the Hada or take it and put it around your neck. You can't point your finger at the living Buddha. In a word, respect is the most important.

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Typically Asked Questions from Our Clients

Asked by Glri***

If a tibetan Monk decides to leave and get married what is the ceremony like at the temple.

Dear Glria,  According to what we know, there's no ceremony if a Tibetan monk wants to get back to the secular. 

Asked by Deir***

I was hoping to visit the monks and stay for a while to see if to be a monk was what I was searching for. Regards, Dee

Dear Deir**,  You may visit Tibet and stay at some monasteries during the daytime. You can see their daily lives instead of being one of them. There're very strict policies for foreigners staying at monasteries. 

Asked by Tina***

Do the Monks pray daily for World Peace and elevation of humanity, to bring absolute joy and end all suffering great and small for humankind?

Dear Tina, This is Beatrice from Great Tibet Tour at your service. You are right, Tibetan monks are praying for world peace and for people to be free from suffering. 

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Lonely peaks, Buddhist monasteries and welcoming people. Tibet is a place unlike any other.

Centuries of isolation have lent the kingdom of Tibet a deep sense of spirituality and mysticism. Once upon a time you could only get there after conquering treacherous terrain and fierce warrior monks, but now – despite the complex political situation – Tibet’s open for travellers to explore. Surround yourself with smoke, incense and the murmuring of the faithful in endless temples and monasteries and experience giddy Everest views. Cross high-altitude passes, twist through towering peaks past plodding yaks, and discover contemporary Tibetan life – a mix of pilgrims and pop music, monks and mobile phones. 

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Monastery Retreats in the UK: Top 16 Christian & Buddhist Retreats

As a sanctuary of peace and tranquillity, Monastery retreats offer a unique opportunity for individuals seeking to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. It’s a chance to step back, slow down, and take the time to reflect on what matters. In the UK, several monasteries offer retreats, each with its unique charm and character. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best monastery retreats in the UK, and what makes them so special.

What is a Monastery Retreat?

A monastery retreat is a type of spiritual retreat that takes place in a monastery or convent. These retreats offer a chance to immerse oneself in a more monastic life or way of life within a monastic community, which often includes prayer, meditation, and reflection. Monasteries are typically located in remote, peaceful areas, allowing visitors to escape the distractions of modern life and connect with nature.

Monastery retreats can be as short as one night on a weekend or midweek retreats or as long as several weeks. They are suitable for people of all faiths and backgrounds, and many retreats offer a range of activities, such as yoga, walking, or gardening. Some retreats require participants to adhere to a strict schedule, while others offer more flexibility.

• Silent Retreats: These retreats are ideal for those seeking solitude and a chance to disconnect from the noise of the world. Participants spend their time in silence, reflecting and meditating.
• Guided Retreats: These retreats are led by experienced spiritual directors who help participants on their spiritual journey. The directors provide guidance, support, and encouragement to help participants deepen their spiritual practice.
• Group Retreats: These retreats are ideal for those who want to connect with others on a similar journey. Participants come together to share their experiences, support one another and deepen their spiritual practice.
• Personal Retreats: These retreats provide individuals with the opportunity to create their own retreat experience. Participants can spend their time in prayer, meditation, or reflection, and have the freedom to choose their schedule.

Christian Monastery Retreats

Buckfast abbey, devon, england.

Buckfast Abbey is a Benedictine monastery located in Devon, South West England. Founded in 1018, the abbey has a long and rich history that spans over a millennium. Buckfast Abbey offers retreats throughout the year, ranging from guided silent retreats to self-led private retreats. The retreats offer guests an opportunity to spend time in quiet reflection, explore the abbey’s beautiful grounds, and participate in daily worship services. Additionally, the abbey’s location in the stunning Dartmoor National Park provides a peaceful and tranquil backdrop for retreatants.

Ampleforth Abbey, North Yorkshire, England

Ampleforth Abbey is a Benedictine monastery located in the picturesque North Yorkshire countryside. The abbey offers a range of retreats throughout the year, including silent retreats, individually directed retreats, and themed retreats. The retreats are led by experienced monks who offer guidance and support throughout the retreat experience. Guests can also participate in the abbey church daily worship services and enjoy the stunning natural surroundings of all the rooms and abbey’s grounds.

Worth Abbey, West Sussex, England

Worth Abbey is a Benedictine monastery located in the beautiful West Sussex countryside. The Open Cloister is the name of the retreat programme the monastic community runs at Worth Abbey. The retreats are led by experienced monks who offer guidance and support throughout the retreat experience. Guests can participate in daily worship services and explore the abbey’s beautiful grounds, including a lake and woodland walks.

Quarr Abbey, Isle of Wight, England

Located on the Isle of Wight, Quarr Abbey is a Benedictine monastery that offers a unique retreat experience. The monastery’s stunning location on the island provides guests with breathtaking views of the English Channel and the Solent. The retreats are led by experienced Benedictine monks who offer guidance and hospitality and can show the Benedictine way of life. Guests can participate in daily worship services, as well as explore the monastery’s beautiful gardens and woodland walks.

The Bield at Blackruthven, Scotland

Nestled in the breathtaking Perthshire countryside, The Bield at Blackruthven is a tranquil retreat centre that offers a sanctuary for those seeking inner peace and rejuvenation. Surrounded by lush hills and enchanting forests, this idyllic centre offers the perfect setting for reflection, mindfulness, and growth. The centre also offers an array of spiritual and healing practices, including prayer and worship services, Reiki, and mindfulness training.

The Friars Aylesford Priory, England

Located in the idyllic village of Aylesford in Kent, The Friars at Aylesford Priory is a spiritual oasis that provides a haven of peace and tranquillity for all who visit. This historic priory has been a site of worship and contemplation for over 700 years, and its stunning architecture and peaceful grounds continue to attract visitors from all over the world. If you’re looking for a place to unwind and connect with your spiritual side, The Friars at Aylesford Priory is the perfect destination. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and peaceful grounds, it’s no wonder that so many people have found solace and inspiration at this historic site.

St Mary’s Monastery, Kinnoull

Nestled on the banks of the River Tay, St Mary’s Monastery in Kinnoull is a spiritual retreat that offers visitors a peaceful and tranquil environment for meditation, prayer, and contemplation. This beautiful monastery has been a site of worship, pilgrimage, community, and reflection for over 150 years and its rich history and stunning architecture continue to inspire visitors from all over the world.

St Beuno’s, Wales

Nestled in the idyllic countryside of North Wales, St Beuno’s Jesuit Spirituality Centre offers a serene and peaceful environment for spiritual renewal, reflection, and growth. The centre has been a beacon of spiritual guidance and renewal for over 150 years and continues to inspire visitors from all walks of life. At St Beuno’s, you’ll have the opportunity to join and explore a wide range of spiritual programs and retreats that are designed to deepen your spiritual practice and help you connect with your inner self. Whether you’re interested in silent meditation, contemplative prayer, or Ignatian spirituality, there are plenty of opportunities to explore different aspects of spirituality and find the path that works best for you.

Llannerchwen, Wales

Nestled in the heart of the Welsh countryside, Llannerchwen Retreat Centre offers a peaceful and tranquil environment for spiritual renewal, personal growth, and reflection. This retreat centre is a perfect destination for those looking to escape the noise and distractions of everyday life and connect with their inner selves. The retreat centre provides comfortable accommodations, including private rooms, shared rooms en suite facilities, a space in other rooms and even camping facilities.

Douai Abbey, England

Douai Abbey, located in the picturesque village of Woolhampton in Berkshire, is a Benedictine monastery that has been a centre for prayer, study, and hospitality for over a century. The monastery offers retreats and courses on Christian spirituality, as well as opportunities for private retreats and spiritual direction. Guests can enjoy walks in the abbey’s extensive gardens or attend one of the daily liturgies in the magnificent church. The guest house at Douai Abbey provides comfortable accommodations and delicious meals, making it an ideal place for families on a spiritual retreat or a quiet getaway.

Pluscarden Abbey, Scotland

Nestled in the heart of the Moray countryside in Scotland, Pluscarden Abbey is a Benedictine monastery founded in the 13th century. The monastery is renowned for its beautiful surroundings, making it a perfect location for families on a spiritual retreat or quiet getaway. Pluscarden Abbey offers retreats and courses on Christian spirituality, as well as opportunities for private retreats and spiritual direction. Guests can participate in the monastic liturgy, which includes daily Mass, the Divine Office, and Eucharistic Adoration. The abbey’s beautiful church is a place of contemplative silence and prayer, where visitors can find a sense of peace and tranquillity.

Stanbrook Abbey, England

Stanbrook Abbey is a stunning monastery retreat located in the heart of the Malvern Hills. With its picturesque setting and rich history, this Benedictine monastery offers visitors a unique opportunity to connect with their spirituality and find inner peace.

Buddhist Monastery Retreats

Monastery retreats have been practised by Buddhist monks and nuns for centuries. These retreats provide an opportunity for individuals to connect with their inner selves and explore the teachings of Buddha. In this article, we will explore some popular monastery retreats in the UK.

Theravada Monastery Retreats

Amaravati buddhist monastery, england.

Nestled amidst the picturesque Chiltern Hills in Buckinghamshire lies a haven of tranquillity and self-discovery: Amaravati Buddhist Monastery. Since its inception in 1984, this spiritual retreat has been a welcoming refuge for those seeking a respite from the chaos of daily life. Whether you’re a seasoned practitioner or just starting your journey, you’ll find a wealth of resources to help you along the way. From daily meditation sessions to weekend retreats, you’ll have ample opportunities to immerse yourself in the practice of mindfulness and gain a deeper understanding of Buddhist teachings.

Tibetan Monastery Retreats

Samye ling, scotland.

Nestled amidst the breathtaking Scottish Borders, Samye Ling stands tall as the first-ever Tibetan Buddhist monastery in the West. Since its inception in 1967, this spiritual retreat has welcomed seekers from all corners of the globe, offering a holistic approach to enlightenment and inner peace. At the heart of Samye Ling lies the ancient teachings of Tibetan Buddhism. The monastery offers a wealth of resources to help you gain a deeper understanding of these teachings, including access to revered Buddhist texts, talks by the monk and senior practitioners, and guidance from seasoned meditation teachers and monks. You can choose from a variety of retreats, ranging from short weekend breaks to extended retreats lasting several weeks.

Holy Isle, Scotland

Nestled to the north of the breathtaking 990-acre nature reserve off Arran Island, lies a haven of tranquillity and self-discovery: The International Peace Centre at Holy Isle. Getting to Holy Isle is an adventure in itself. You’ll need to catch a ferry between Ardrossan and Arran, followed by a short 10-minute ferry ride to the isle. But the effort is well worth it once you set foot on the tranquil haven. With 65 beds on offer, The International Peace Centre is the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. In addition to accommodation, the facility provides regular classes in all seasons.

Madhyamaka Buddhist Centre, Yorkshire, England

Nestled in the idyllic countryside near Pocklington Market town in Yorkshire lies the Madhyamaka Buddhist Centre, a haven of serenity and self-discovery. The centre is housed in a majestic Georgian mansion that dominates the estate, with private gardens making it a peaceful retreat centre for those seeking a respite from the hustle and bustle of daily life. These events provide a supportive and welcoming environment for those seeking to deepen their spiritual practice. Accommodations are available at the centre, with small rooms starting at just £54, including breakfast. Guests are also welcome to participate in gardening and other chores, providing a unique opportunity to connect with nature and find inner peace.

In conclusion, the UK is home to a diverse range of monastery retreats that offer a unique opportunity for spiritual growth, contemplation, community and rejuvenation. Whether you’re seeking the peace and tranquillity of the countryside or the vibrant energy of a city centre, there’s a monastery retreat in the UK to suit your needs. From the ancient ruins of Lindisfarne to the beautiful hills of Perthshire, each monastery retreat has its distinctive charm and character. Whether you’re looking to deepen your spiritual practice, learn more about monks and a particular tradition, or simply take a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, a monastery retreat in the UK is the perfect place to do it.

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This May, Thupten Jinpa, Ph.D., His Holiness, the Dalai Lama’s principal English language interpreter, will begin a multi-city tour to promote the release of his new book, A Fearless Heart: How the Courage to Be Compassionate Can Transform Our Lives .

The tour begins in New York City and continues through Portland, San Francisco and Toronto. There will be a question and answer period after each reading. This is a rare opportunity to meet with one of the leading thinkers of our time. Complete information and links for each event follow below. Be sure to follow Thupten Jinpa on Facebook for news and tour updates.

Sacred Arts Tour 2023-2024 of Drepung Gomang Monastery

'sacred art tour', an official tour group of drepung gomang monastery will be in the united states of america soon when traveling will be permitted, formally invited by drepung gomang center for engaging compassion @drepung gomang institute / tashi gomang dharma center, located in louisville, kentucky, united states of america. our centers are 501 (c) (3) and is committed to preserving the tibetan culture, traditions and religion., anne walter is the national coordinator and can be reached at 502-619-1652.  the group is headed by venerable geshe lharampa khenrap chaeden   and accompanied by six monks of drepung gomang monastery., click here for a brief bio of traveling monks.

SACRED ARTS PROGRAM (SAT)

The authentic Tibetan programs that we offer are a blend of ancient cultural, religious, and artistic expressions.  You may choose to offer an educational program focusing on ancient historic beliefs, an artful performance or display that demonstrates colorful Tibetan traditions, and/or a truly inspirational combination of Tibetan art, history and sacred traditions that completely inspire the spirit.

Click here for SAT PROGRAM 2023-2025

Click here for sat cultural pageant 2023-2025 click here for s at schedule 2023-2025.

Sand Mandala

Read more …

Description on Merchandize and symbols

Sacred Art Monks of Drepung Gomang bring with them Tibetan merchandise with Buddhist religious symbols and mantras, below are some of the explanations, please click on the below links to know more:

• Kalachakra                                              
• Om Mani Padme Hum
• Prayer Flag
• The Eight Auspicious Symbols
• Tibetan National Flag
• Tibetan Buddhist Mala
• Tibetan Dorjee
• Tibetan Tingsha

Group Workshops

Workshops the drepung gomang tour will present workshops on a variety of topics related to traditional tibetan art. all workshops will include a short talk/explanation of the tradition of the various crafts as well as a short demonstration.  the monks will facilitate full "hands on" participation by the public.  they will supply photo step-by-step displays of how to do each craft and, in addition, clear sample drawings laminated for each workshop., materials for local coordinators.

The materials below are to assist the coordinators with their job in providing publicity to the media and in presenting the Drepung Gomang Tour Programs  to the people in their areas. All the below materials are copied here from www.gomang.org after slight changes and updates.

Visual Arts Programs

Following is an overview of the elements that will comprise the artistic aspect of the Drepung Gomang Tour. For details about each program, be sure to click on the links provided:

Objective of Monastery's Tour

Official Mandala Tour to Russia 2023

With the kind invitation from Local Religious Organization ‘Gelug Buddhist Community’, Russia and kind coordination by Natasha la, Chairman of Drepung Gomang Center, Cultural Foundation and all its kind members/volunteers. The Official Mandala group of Drepung Gomang Monastery headed by Gyumed Khentrul Rinpoche Geshe Tenpa Phuntsok with four monks and Tibetan doctor Dr. Penpa Tsering la will visit Russia and its region from Mid September 2023. Drepung Gomang Monastery on behalf of everyone sincerely conveys its deepest thank you to Natasha la, Chairman of our Drepung Gomang Center, Cultural Foundation and all volunteers and friends supporting this Official Mandala tour for arranging the invitation and organizing the visit of monks to Russia. Drepung Gomang Monastery appeals to all in Russia to kindly extend possible assistance to this official Mandala Group so that the visit of this group will be beneficial to all in difficult times like this.

For more information, please visit www.drepunggomang.ru

https://www.facebook.com/gomangcenter/

Tibetan monks tour Central Coast in Morro Bay, Paso Robles

Neil is KSBY's Senior Reporter and anchor of KSBY News Daybreak. He's one of your dedicated community reporters for the City of San Luis Obispo.

A group of Tibetan Monks started another tour of the Central Coast, spreading their message of peace, kindness, wisdom, and compassion, along with Tibetan arts and culture.

The Tibetan Sacred Arts Tour from the Drepung Gomang Monastery in India is back on the Central Coast this week. They will be performing sand mandala ceremonies, meditation sessions, painting rocks with sacred meditative symbols, and much more at Let’s Get Tuned Sound & Yoga Studio on Market Avenue in Morro Bay Monday-Thursday.

The tour will support refugee monks in South India for food, health and hygiene, as well as education facilities for the monk students.

“They have 2,000 monks. They use (the donations) for food, clothes, or medicine. The schools also use it. There are many people that help and support us,” said Geshe Choeden, the leader of the Tibetan Sacred Arts Tour.

“In the yoga tradition and the Buddhist tradition, the core values are compassion, right? We do these practices of yoga and sound healing to be more compassionate with ourselves, to be more patient and loving with others, and that is part of their mission. It ties in perfectly; just raising the vibration of love and kindness among all beings,” said Natalie Teichmann, co-owner of Let’s Get Tuned Sound and Yoga Studio in Morro Bay.

Opening blessings begin at 9:30a.m. daily. The Tibetan Sacred Arts Tour will head to Paso Robles on Friday at EarthTones Gifts, Gallery & Center for Healing and Allegretto.

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