Kagyu Thubten Choling

Kagyu Thubten Chöling Monastery and Retreat Center was founded in 1978 by Lama Norlha Rinpoche in the tradition of Kyabje Dorje Chang Kalu Rinpoche. An internationally respected meditation master in the tradition of the Kagyu Lineage, Lama Norlha Rinpoche personally guides this active Dharma community, providing opportunities for students at all levels. In addition to a daily schedule of practice, study and work, the monastery offers weekend seminars taught by Lama Norlha Rinpoche and special courses led by visiting Lamas.

Over more than 30 years, we have been fortunate to host two visits from His Holiness the Dalai Lama, and to receive blessings from both the 16th and 17th Karmapas, as well as numerous teachings and empowerments from the spiritual heads and other notable Lamas of all four lineages of Tibetan Buddhism.

Since its founding, a major focus of Kagyu Thubten Chöling Monastery has been the three-year retreat program which was initiated in 1982 and offers training to serious students in the core teachings and practices of the Kagyu Lineage. Practitioners who have completed the three-year retreat assist Lama Norlha Rinpoche by offering classes in Tibetan language, meditation, and traditional rituals, both at KTC and at our affiliated centers located in many cities throughout the U.S. East Coast and Peru. They also serve as mentors in the Dharma Path Program, a program created by Lama Norlha Rinpoche to provide serious practitioners in the lay community with comprehensive instruction in the progressive stages of meditation and contemplation.Visitors and overnight guests are always welcome at Kagyu Thubten Chöling. Whether planning to visit for the day or an extended period of time, please either use our online reservation form or email in advance [email protected].

Individuals interested in an environment combining meditation, study, and work are welcome to stay for any length of time. Guest rooms are available for short retreats.Overnight guests are asked to assist in routine center chores. Everyone is responsible for maintaining a peaceful environment conducive to meditation.

With that in mind, if you are unwell, we ask that you please stay home to rest and recover and come join us again when you are feeling better. Germs spread quickly within a community and we appreciate your concern for the health of the residents and guests of the monastery.

Please note that many of our meals may contain common allergens incuding soy, wheat, tree nuts, seeds, milk, and egg products. We are sorry that we are unable to accommodate special dietary needs.