ABOUT THE INSTITUTE
Staff
Institute Evaluation
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Contact
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Acknowledgments
Articles From Asia

 
 
ASIA PROGRAM
Introduction
India Overview
Thailand Overview
Requirements
Itinerary
Asia Frequently Asked Questions
Program Fees
Application

 
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
American Consular:
Asia


British Consular:
Asia -
India
Thailand

 

ITINERARY

Our principal area of interest is the Dharamsala region of the Himachal Pradesh state in northern India. As His Holiness the Dalai Lama's home-inexile, this region is the heart of Tibetan Buddhism and the center of the exiled Tibetan community. The area is culturally rich, as well as breathtakingly beautiful. The surrounding Himalayas envelope us in magic, and are home to many Hindu villages and pilgrimage sites. We make treks from nearby Kulu Valley.

We have many years of experience travelling in Thailand and India, including Calcutta, Varanassi, Bodh Gaya, Agra, and other centers of Buddhist, Islamic, and Hindu spirituality. Although each trip is different, we take care to consider political stability, the amazement factor, and opportunity to offer service at the village level.

We are continuing to research and develop new centers in Asia.

How we know we have found the right place for a base of operation:

Selection criteria:

  1. A viable indigenous culture committed to maintaining traditions
  2. The presence of problems or forces which are threatening to cultural integrity
  3. The identification of educational, health and sustainable development needs which, in the judgment of villagers, we can help meet
  4. A dialogue which leads to growing and enduring friendships
  5. The capacity of the village to absorb our impact constructively

We travel to Asia routinely every winter. Join us in our work!

"Many of our problems are created by ourselves based on divisions due to ideology; religion, race, economic status, or other factors. The time has come for us to think on a deeper level, on a human level and appreciate and respect our sameness as human beings."

His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama