Category Archives: Tibetan Buddhism

Happiness as Shugsep’s Research Training Center Opens

Thanks to five generous donors, the Research Center at Shugsep Nunnery and Institute opened in March 2026! Here is an interim report with a video about the first three nuns doing research.

Background to the Research Training Center

In the autumn of 2025, the nuns at Shugsep Nunnery and Institute in India asked for help to establish a Research Training Center for the senior nuns, so they could become qualified researchers and inspire other nuns to follow in their footsteps.

three Tibetan Buddhist nuns join research center

The research center at Shugsep opened in March 2026 with three senior Shugsep nuns as trainee researchers: Tsultrim Dolma (right), Pema Dolma (middle), and Thupten Choewang (also known as Tsering Wangmo) (left).

Thanks to the generosity of five donors, the nuns were able to equip the room and launch the program at the start of the new academic year in March 2026. The research center will strengthen the academic and research foundations of the nunnery and enable the nuns to integrate their traditional Buddhist studies with modern research practices.

Here is a video from March 2026 about the start of the program and the first three nuns who are doing research. Can’t see the video? Click here.

The Research Center at Shugsep Nunnery

The Research Center at Shugsep started in March 2026 with three senior nuns who will learn research best practices and start their research projects. Under the guidance of a certified professor and researcher, they will undergo a rigorous one-year training program. After successfully completing the program, the nuns will be able to train future generations of nuns, thereby bridging the continuity of advanced learning within the nunnery.

As part of the programme, the participating Loponmas will also attend workshops with visits by Professor Dr. Dorji Wangchuk of the University of Hamburg in Germany, who has already established similar research programs at Namdroling Monastery, Dzongsar Institute, Gangtok Institute, and other Nyingma monasteries.

Research center at Shugsep Nunnery opens

One of the senior nuns who began her research training in March 2026 at the new center at Shugsep Nunnery and Institute.

Thanks to our generous donors, the nuns can:

Purchase and install equipment for the center, such as computers, a projector, printer, battery, and bookshelves.
Recruit and hire a certified researcher/professor to conduct the one-year training program.
Support the research program in line with Professor Wangchuk’s curriculum.
Facilitate the Loponmas’ participation in external workshops at the other established research centers in Nepal, South India, Himachal Pradesh, and Gangtok.
Support the process of evaluation and certification of the Loponmas as they complete their research training.

The goal is sustainability. The trained Loponmas will assume the role of teachers, thereby continuing the program for future Loponma trainees to be self-reliant.

Khenmos from Shugsep have audience with His Holiness the Dalai Lama March 2026

Sixteen of the 19 Khenmos from Shugsep had an audience with His Holiness the Dalai Lama on March 13, 2026.

The Development of Shugsep’s Academic Program

Shugsep Nunnery and Institute was re-established in exile in India by the Tibetan Nuns Project. Construction began in 2006 and the nunnery was inaugurated in 2010. This Nyingma nunnery near Dharamsala is currently home to about 100 nuns.

2025 marked the 15th anniversary of the inauguration of Shugsep Nunnery and Institute, now home to about 100 nuns. The original rented house where the nuns lived after their escape is on the left.

Here is a video made in 2006 telling the story of Shugsep Nunnery in Tibet and how it was re-established in India by the Tibetan Nuns Project. Can’t see the video? Click here.

The original Shugsep in Tibet was destroyed in the Cultural Revolution in 1959, and the nuns were forced to leave. The nunnery was partially rebuilt by nuns in the 1980s, but they faced frequent harassment by the Chinese authorities. Seeking the freedom to practice their religion and culture, many Shugsep nuns escaped from Tibet to northern India.

A Nyingma nunnery, Shugsep traces its rituals and practices to some of the most illustrious female practitioners in Tibetan history. In exile, the nuns were given the opportunity to participate in a nine-year academic program of Buddhist philosophy, debate, Tibetan language and English.

The research training center at the nunnery will promote advanced learning for the senior nuns.

Currently, there are 60 Shugsep nuns who have graduated with their Loponma degree, the highest academic degree in their philosophic tradition, roughly equivalent to a Master’s. In February 2026, 19 senior nuns were enthroned as Khenmos at Shugsep’s historic khenmo enthronement ceremony. A Khenmo is the highest scholarly and teaching title for nuns in the Nyingma tradition of Tibetan Buddhism. It is equivalent to the Khenpo title given to monks.

Historic First Khenmo Enthronement at Shugsep Nunnery: Photos and Video

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The first-ever Khenmo enthronement at Shugsep Nunnery was held on February 18, 2026, the first day of Tibetan New Year or Losar. Here is a report with photos by the media nuns at Shugsep Nunnery.

Historic Khenmo Enthronement Ceremony Shugsep Nunnery 2026

At the historic Khenmo enthronement on February 18, 2026 with chief guests. There are only 18 Khenmos pictured instead of 19 because one nun is currently teaching in the United States and was unable to attend the ceremony.

A Khenmo is the highest scholarly and teaching title for nuns in the Nyingma tradition of Tibetan Buddhism. It is equivalent to the Khenpo title given to monks.

Ceremonial procession for the historic Khenmo enthronement Feb 2026 Shugsep Nunnery

A collage of photos showing the ceremonial procession for the historic Khenmo enthronement on February 18, 2026.

The ceremony was led by Khenchen Pema Sherab Rinpoche, the main preceptor for the enthronement. The event included traditional ritual prayers, a white scarf (katak) offering ceremony, speeches by various dignitaries, and the presentation of special items such as the red hat signifying the Khenmos’ status.

Nuns playing Tibetan long horns or dungchens

Nuns playing Tibetan long horns or dungchen, They have a deep, low sound and are played to welcome high lamas and Rinpoches to a monastery or temple.

On this day, in the presence of Khenchen Pema Sherab, all 19 nuns received the Khenmo title through the enthronement ceremony, followed by oath-taking, rituals, the offering of ceremonial scarves, and speeches.

New Khenmos at Shugsep Nunnery receiving ceremonial kataks

The Khenmos, wearing their red hats signifying their status, are seated in front of huge piles of ceremonial white scarves or kataks given to them as a mark of respect.

The day was also covered by the Voice of Tibet news station, based in Dharamsala. Here is the video. Can’t see the video? Click here.

Special Guests

The guest list included:
– Chief Guest Khenpo Sonam Tenphel, Speaker of the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile
– Mr. Dhondul Dorjee, Secretary of the Department of Religion and Culture, Central Tibetan Administration
– Staff members of the Tibetan Nuns Project India office
– Ms. Nangsa Choedon, Former Director of the Tibetan Nuns Project office in India
– Representatives from nunneries, monasteries, and non-governmental organizations around Dharamsala

Khenchen and Shugsep Khenpo Namgyal shared the history of Shugsep and the significance of the Khenmo title, and expressed gratitude to the Tibetan Nuns Project for its continuous support.

Tibetan Nuns Project Director Youdon Aukatsang, Mr. Dhondul Dorjee (Secretary of the Department of Religion and Culture, CTA), and the Chief Guest Khenpo Sonam Tenphel (Speaker of Tibetan Parliament in Exile) also delivered speeches.

TNP India Director Youdon Aukatsang speaking at the Khenmo Enthronement

Youdon Aukatsang, the Director of the Tibetan Nuns Project office in India, said, “The millennium-old Shugsep Nunnery has reached a momentous milestone with the elevation of its nuns to the Khenmo level. We share a duty to ensure they have the support needed to translate their deep knowledge into a legacy of service for all humanity.”

During the ceremony, Shugsep Nunnery also presented souvenirs to honor Rinchen Khando Choegyal (TNP’s Founding Director and Special Advisor) and Dr. Elizabeth (Betsy) Napper (TNP’s U.S. Founder and Board Chair) for their lifelong support and service to the nunneries.

The souvenirs for Rinchen Khando Choegyal and Dr. Elizabeth (Betsy) Napper and one of the two certificates of appreciation from Shugsep Nunnery marking their decades of dedication to the nuns.

Part of the text on the Certificate of Appreciation reads:

… for the upliftment of Tibetan Buddhist nuns in exile in all aspects — education, healthcare, character building, management skills, resilience and above all self-confidence and community service. Thanks to your unflinching support, many nuns have been successful in graduating with Loponma, Geshema and Khenmo degrees, the highest certification in advanced Buddhist philosophical studies which is unprecedented in the history of traditional Tibetan Buddhist nunneries.

What is a Khenmo?

A Khenmo is the highest scholarly and teaching title for nuns in the Nyingma tradition of Tibetan Buddhism. It is equivalent to the Khenpo title given to monks. To become eligible for Khenmo:

A nun must complete nine years of rigorous Buddhist studies.
She has received the Loponma degree, equivalent to a Master’s degree.
After this, she must serve the nunnery for at least four years.
Service includes teaching, administration, guiding students, or other responsibilities.
She must maintain pure discipline, with no record of serious violations.

Unlike the Geshema degree, there is no written examination for the Khenmo title. Eligibility is based on education, years of service, leadership, and moral conduct.

A collage of photos from the historic Khenmo enthronement at Shugsep on February 18, 2026.

The nuns enthroned in February 2026 completed their Loponma studies between 2004 and 2022. Since then, they have fulfilled their required years of service: Some have taught Buddhist texts, some have managed administrative duties, some have guided study and revision programs for junior nuns.

Why This System is New for Nuns

Traditionally, only monks were enthroned as Khenpo. This was because the full nun ordination lineage (Gelongma) was not historically present in Tibet. Without full ordination, nuns could not receive the same monastic titles.

In recent decades, Tibetan Buddhist leaders recognized this historical gap and created a new system. Instead of requiring full Gelongma ordination, nuns who complete higher studies and long-term service can now be enthroned as Khenmo. This change opened the door for nuns to receive equal recognition as scholars and spiritual leaders.

Historic Khenmo Enthronement at Shugsep Nunnery Feb 2026

The Khenmos with Khenchen Pema Sherab Rinpoche. Only 18 Khenmos are in the pictures instead of 19 because Loponma Tsering Lhamo was unable to attend the ceremony, as she is currently serving as a teacher at Tara Mandala International Buddhist Community in the United States.

Responsibilities After Enthronement and Impact

The role of the Khenmos is not only scholarly, but also leadership and representation. After receiving the Khenmo title, the nuns will take on greater responsibilities:

Some will continue teaching advanced Buddhist studies.
Some will lead administrative management of the nunnery.
Some will enter long-term retreat.
During major events, Khenmos will represent Shugsep Nunnery in religious gatherings and official functions.
Some will train for the research center.

The Khenmo enthronement strengthens leadership among nuns, raises educational standards in the nunnery, ensures self-sufficiency in teaching and training, inspires younger nuns to pursue higher studies, and promotes gender equality in Tibetan Buddhism.

The Meaning of Windhorse Tibetan Prayer Flags

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We are sometimes asked about the meaning of windhorse Tibetan prayer flags. The windhorse is a sacred mythical creature in Tibetan culture, believed to carry prayers to the heavenly realm using the strength and speed of the wind.

Lungta (Tib: རླུངྲ་) means air or wind, and ta (རྟ་) is horse. So, Lung-ta means an air-horse or windhorse. Lungta, or windhorse, is a sacred symbol in Tibetan culture. It is believed to raise a person’s energy and carry prayers and intentions to the divine. When travelling through Tibetan settlements or Himalayan villages, you will often see colorful prayer flags hanging on rooftops, trees, bridges, and mountain ridges.

Different types of prayer flags hanging in the breeze. Different types of prayer flags hanging in the breeze. Lungta in Tibetan ( རླུང་རྟ) is translated to “windhorse”. The first Tibetan syllable “lung” རླུང represents the element “wind” or “air” in the five elements of “earth, water, fire, air, and space”. The second syllable “ta” རྟ means horse.

In Tibetan Buddhism, many actions are done with spiritual meaning, and religious items are often blessed before use. Hanging Lungta, or prayer flags, is an important tradition. Tibetan Buddhists hang Lungta flags after they have been blessed by lamas or at monasteries. Once the flags receive these blessings, they are believed to be spiritually empowered and ready to be hung.

hanging Tibetan prayer flags, prayer flags

A Tibetan Buddhist nuns hangs new prayer flags at Dolma Ling Nunnery and Institute. It is traditional to hang new prayer flags at Losar or Tibetan New Year. Photo courtesy of Olivier Adam.

After an object is blessed and the ritual is completed, it is important to handle it respectfully — for example, keeping it in a safe and clean place and using it appropriately. Likewise, the Tibetan prayer flags we sell here through our online store are all made by nuns and have already undergone the necessary rituals and blessings. When placed outdoors such as on rooftops, mountain passes, or sacred sites, the wind carries the prayers and mantras printed on the flags, spreading blessings, compassion, peace, and good fortune to all beings.

Meaning of the Symbols on Windhorse Prayer Flags

the meaning of windhorse Tibetan prayer flags lungta

Here’s a detailed photo of one of the windhorse (Lungta) prayer flags made by the nuns, showing the prayers and sacred symbols. The Lungta or windhorse is in the center, surrounded by mantras. In the corners are the four auspicious animals, and, at the sides, are the eight auspicious Buddhist symbols.

The central image on the prayer flag is the windhorse, symbolizing good fortune, luck, and the power to influence events. It is depicted carrying a wish-fulfilling jewel on its back.

In the four corners of each prayer flag are the Four Auspicious Animals. Clockwise from the upper left, they are the Garuda (upper left), Dragon (upper right), Snow Lion (bottom right), and Tiger (bottom left).

A Tibetan Buddhist nun makes prayer flags at Dolma Ling Nunnery. All the prayer flags sold in our online store are made and blessed by nuns in India.

These “Four Auspicious Animals” are also called the Four Mythical Creatures, the Four Guardians, the Four Gods, or the Four Dignities in Buddhist mythology. In Buddhism, these four guardian animals symbolize the overcoming of birth, old age, sickness, and death. They are also known as the guardians of the four cardinal directions: north, south, east, and west.

These sacred mythical animals also represent the qualities and attitudes that bodhisattvas develop on the path to enlightenment — qualities such as awareness, vast vision, confidence, joy, humility, and power.

The Meaning of the Four Auspicious Animals in Buddhism

GARUDA: The Garuda is an enormous, mythical bird of prey that represents fearlessness, power, and wisdom. Known for its ability to soar to great heights, it symbolizes the mind’s ability to rise above worldly concerns and attain spiritual liberation. It is believed to be able to subdue nagas (serpent spirits), representing the victory of wisdom over ignorance. It represents the north in the four cardinal directions.

DRAGON: The thunder dragon, also known as druk (འབྲུག) in Tibetan and Bhutanese mythology, is the national symbol of Bhutan and is depicted on the Bhutanese flag. The dragon was adopted as an emblem by the Drukpa Lineage, which originated in Tibet and spread to Bhutan. Tibetan dragons are used on prayer flags, carpets, furniture, thangkas, and to decorate temple gates and roofs. They are believed to bring enlightenment. elegance, generosity, calmness, and achievements.

The Tibetan flag with the pair of snow lions. The snow lion is the emblem of Tibet and is one of the Four Auspiciaous Animals on the corners of the windhorse prayer flag.

SNOW LION: The snow lion (གངས་སེང་གེ་) is the emblem of Tibet, and a pair of snow lions is on the national flag of Tibet. The snow lion represents both the snowy mountain ranges and glaciers of Tibet and also symbolizes fearlessness and joy, power and strength, the direction east, and the earth element. The lion’s roar embodies the sound of “emptiness” (Sanskrit: Śūnyatā), courage and truth, and this is often a synonym for the Buddhadharma, the Buddha’s teachings and the challenging call to awakening.

TIGER: The tiger may represent power, confidence, discipline, and modesty. In Tibetan Buddhist culture, the tiger is often associated with the famous Buddhist saint, Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava), who is believed to have subdued the local deities and demons, bringing Buddhism to the region. The tiger represents the earthly realm and the fierce determination needed to overcome obstacles on the spiritual path.

What are the Prayers on the Prayer Flags?

At the center of a Lungta is the windhorse carrying three flaming jewels on its back. The horse represents strength, energy, and the ability to turn misfortune into good fortune. The three jewels represent the Buddha, the Dharma (the teachings), and the Sangha (the Buddhist community), which are the three main pillars of Tibetan Buddhism.

om mani padme hum, mantra, Tibetan mantra, meaning of om mani padme hum

The mantra Om Mani Padme Hum in Tibetan.

At the top of the prayer flag, in an archaic script, it says OM MANI PADME HUM. This is the primary mantra of Avalokiteshvara, the Buddha and Bodhisattva of compassion. It is recited by Tibetans everywhere, and may be loosely translated as “Om, the Jewel in the Lotus, HUM.”

Around the central symbol of the windhorse or lungta are traditional mantras. Tibetan prayer flags vary, but the mantras used are one of the hundreds recited by the three Bodhisattvas or Gurus — Padmasambhava or Guru Rinpoche, Chenrezig, the embodiment of compassion, or Manjusri, known for transcendent wisdom. The oldest and most popular Buddhist mantra on the flags is Om Mani Padme Hum. Here’s a blog post in which His Holiness the Dalai Lama explains the deep meaning of Om Mani Padme Hum.

Tibetan prayer flags flutter in the wind at a mountain pass. Each of the five colors has a specific meaning and represents an element.

The Meaning of the Colors of Prayer Flags

Tibetan prayer flags come in sets of five, with one flag in each of the five colors. The colors from left to right are in this specific order: blue, white, red, green, and yellow. Each color has a meaning and represents an element.

According to Traditional Tibetan medicine, health and harmony are produced through the balance of the five elements.

Blue symbolizes the sky and space.
White symbolizes the air and wind.
Red symbolizes fire.
Green symbolizes water.
Yellow symbolizes earth.

Traditionally, prayer flags are hung from high points like mountain passes, temples, and rooftops, allowing the wind to carry the prayers far and wide.

It is traditional to hang new prayer flags at Losar, Tibetan New Year. Here a nun at Dolma Ling Nunnery removes the old weathered prayer flags and respectfully burns them. Photo courtesy of Olivier Adam.

In Tibetan Buddhism, people often choose an auspicious day or date to hang a Lungta (prayer flag). These days are selected based on the lunar calendar and traditional astrological calculations to ensure that the blessings of the flags are most effective. Hanging the flags on a favorable day is believed to increase positive energy, bring good fortune, and enhance the spiritual power of the prayers and mantras printed on the flags. Many families and communities make it a special occasion, sometimes performing small ceremonies or offerings before placing the flags outdoors.

You can order prayers flags made and blessed by the nuns here.

Historic First Khenmo Enthronement at Shugsep Nunnery

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On February 18th, 2026, the first day of the Tibetan New Year, Shugsep Nunnery and Institute will hold its first-ever Khenmo Enthronement Ceremony. A total of 19 nuns will be enthroned as Khenmo, making this a historic milestone for the nunnery.

Shugsep Nunnery follows the education system of Namdroling Monastery and Namdroling Nunnery. Namdroling Nunnery held its first Khenmo enthronement in 2022. Following the same tradition and system, Shugsep Nunnery will now celebrate its own first Khenmo enthronement this year.

The nuns paint sacred Buddhist symbols to welcome Khenchen Pema Sherab Rinpoche, the chief guest of the upcoming Khenmo Enthronement.

What is a Khenmo?

A Khenmo is the highest scholarly and teaching title for nuns in the Nyingma tradition of Tibetan Buddhism. It is equivalent to the Khenpo title given to monks. To become eligible for Khenmo:

A nun must complete nine years of rigorous Buddhist studies.
She has received the Loponma degree, equivalent to a Master’s degree.
After this, she must serve the nunnery for at least four years.
Service includes teaching, administration, guiding students, or other responsibilities.
She must maintain pure discipline, with no record of serious violations.

Unlike the Geshema degree, there is no written examination for the Khenmo title. Eligibility is based on education, years of service, leadership, and moral conduct.

A photo from Shugsep Nunnery in Tibet in 1998. After many Shugsep nuns escaped to India in the 1990s, the nunnery was re-established by the Tibetan Nuns Project near Dharamsala. Photo by Julie Brittain.

The 19 nuns being enthroned this year completed their Loponma studies between 2004 and 2022. Since then, they have fulfilled their required years of service: Some have taught Buddhist texts, some have managed administrative duties, some have guided study and revision programs for junior nuns.

Why This System is New for Nuns

On October 28 2022, Shugsep Nunnery and Institute held an important graduation ceremony in which Pharchin, Uma, and Lopon nuns were given their graduation certificates. As of 2023, 49 Shugsep nuns had attained the Lopon degree, equivalent to a Master’s degree – a remarkable achievement given the many obstacles on their path.

The Enthronement Ceremony

On January 29th, the Shugsep nuns welcomed Khenchen Pema Sherab Rinpoche, the chief guest of the upcoming Khenmo Enthronement. They presented him with kataks, the Tibetan white scarves given as a sign of respect.

The ceremony will be led by Khenchen Pema Sherab Rinpoche, who will serve as the chief guest and main preceptor for the enthronement. The event will include:

Traditional ritual prayers
White scarf (katak) offering ceremony
Attendance by dignitaries from monasteries, nunneries, and government departments
Each newly enthroned Khenmo will receive traditional gifts, including:
A ceremonial hat
A small Buddha statue
A pair of ritual vases
A mandala offering set
A container for the “three whites and three sweets”
A ritual bell and vajra
A new set of monastic robes

A Tibetan Buddhist nun holds a traditional bell and dorje.

A Tibetan Buddhist nun holds a traditional bell and vajra (dorje), essential Tibetan Buddhist ritual items representing the inseparable union of wisdom and compassion. Photo by Olivier Adam.

Responsibilities After Enthronement

At present, there will be no replacement involved in this Khenmo enthronement. According to the nunnery’s administration, this ceremony is not filling a vacant position or replacing an existing Khenpo.

After receiving the Khenmo title, the nuns will take on greater responsibilities:

Some will continue teaching advanced Buddhist studies.
Some will lead administrative management of the nunnery.
Some will enter long-term retreat.
During major events, Khenmos will represent Shugsep Nunnery in religious gatherings and official functions.
Some will train for the research center.

Their role is not only scholarly, but also leadership and representation.

Impact on the Nunnery

This Khenmo enthronement will:

Strengthen leadership among nuns.
Raise educational standards in the nunnery.
Ensure self-sufficiency in teaching and training.
Inspire younger nuns to pursue higher studies.
Promote gender equality in Tibetan Buddhism.

Ani Ugyen Dolma

Ani Ugyen Dolma is a senior nun in her 50s, originally from Tibet. She belongs to Shugsep Nunnery in Tibet and was among the very first group of nuns to arrive in Shugsep Nunnery in India. She is one of the nuns who will be enthroned in February 2026.

Ani Ugyen Dolma is one of the nuns at Shugsep who will be enthroned as khenmo on February 18, 2026.

She first arrived in India in 1990, as part of the first batch of 22 nuns who came from Tibet to the new Shugsep Nunnery in exile. Since then, she has remained continuously involved in the growth and development of the nunnery, from its earliest days to the present.

In 2004, Ani Ugyen Dolma completed her Loponma degree, becoming part of the first-ever Loponma graduating batch at Shugsep Nunnery. That historic batch included eight nuns, marking the beginning of advanced Buddhist scholastic education for nuns at Shugsep.

From 2010 to 2017, she served as the Director of Shugsep Nunnery, taking responsibility for the administration, discipline, and overall management of the community.

After the nunnery later invited a Khenpo to strengthen higher Buddhist education in the nunnery, Ani Ugyen Dolma focused mainly on teaching and academic guidance. She has been:

Teaching Buddhist scriptures and philosophy
Guiding the studies of junior nuns
Supporting examination preparation and study programs
She continues to serve in this teaching role today.

Currently, Ani Ugyen Dolma is preparing to receive the Khenmo title in the upcoming enthronement ceremony. After enthronement, she plans either to enter a period of spiritual retreat or continue teaching and guiding nuns at Shugsep.

Refugee Tibetan Buddhist nuns, Tibetan refugees, Tibetan Buddhist nuns, Dharamsala

The Shugsep nuns story is one of perseverance, dedication, and hope. Many Shugsep nuns escaped from Tibet with nothing, not knowing how to read and write, traumatized in the prisons, beaten by the prison guards, and with many health problems. Shugsep Nunnery was re-established by the Tibetan Nuns Project in India. Photo of refugee nuns in 1991 by Susan Lirakis.

Important Tibetan Buddhist Holidays in 2026

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Here is a list of important Tibetan Buddhist holidays in 2026, plus other major dates in the Tibetan calendar.

The 2026 Tibetan Nuns Project calendar is available through our online store at tnp.org and has the Tibetan lunar calendar, ritual dates, inspirational quotes, phases of the moon, and major US and Canadian holidays. The cost is $13, and all proceeds help the nuns.

Each year, the Tibetan Nuns Project publishes a calendar with beautiful images by the nuns. By purchasing the calendar, you will help provide education, food, shelter, and healthcare for approximately 900 Tibetan Buddhist nuns residing in northern India.

February 18, 2026: Losar, Tibetan New Year

The nuns at Dolma Ling make elaborate and colorful butter sculptures of flowers and Buddhist sacred symbols to decorate an offering table for Losar or Tibetan New Year. Photos by the Dolma Ling Media Nuns.

Losar, or Tibetan New Year, is a very special time of year. In the traditional Tibetan calendar, each year has an animal, an element, and a number.

This year, Losar falls on February 18, 2026. According to the Tibetan calendar, it is the start of the year of the Fire Horse, 2153.

Tibetans hang new prayer flags and burn incense at Tibetan New Year. Photo courtesy of Olivier Adam

The animals in the Tibetan calendar are similar to those in the Chinese zodiac and are in the following order: Mouse, Ox, Tiger, Hare, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Sheep, Monkey, Bird, Dog, and Boar. The five elements are in this order: Wood, Fire, Earth, Iron, and Water.

Losar-related rituals fall into two distinct parts. First, Tibetans bid farewell to the old year and release themselves from all its negative or bad aspects. Part of this involves cleaning one’s home or room from top to bottom.

Tibetan Buddhist nuns making khapse for Tibetan New Year or Losar

Each year the nuns make lots of khapse biscuits in various shapes and sizes for Losar. These deep-fried Tibetan cookies are a staple of Tibetan New Year celebrations everywhere. Photos by the Dolma Ling Media Nuns

After that, Tibetans welcome the “Losar” or “new year” with prayers and by inviting all good, auspicious things into their homes and lives. They prepare special food such as khapse, fried biscuits, and a Losar noodle soup called guthuk. Here is a recipe for vegetarian guthuk.

At Losar, Tibetans hang new prayer flags and burn incense and fragrant juniper bows to welcome the new year. If you would like to hang Tibetan prayer flags, you can order them here. The Tibetan prayer flags sold in our online store are made and blessed by Tibetan Buddhist nuns in India.

March 10 and March 12: Tibetan Uprising Day

Tibetans taking part in March 10th demonstrations Dharamsala

Nuns, monks, and lay people hold Tibetan flags and banners as they take part in a demonstration in Dharamsala, India to mark March 10th, Tibetan Uprising Day. Photo courtesy of the Dolma Ling Media Nuns.

While not a Tibetan Buddhist holiday, March 10th is a very important date in the Tibetan calendar. It marks the anniversary of the Tibetan National Uprising.

In 1950, Chinese Communist forces invaded Tibet. On March 10, 1959, Tibetans attempted to take back their country with an uprising in Lhasa. The protests were crushed with brutal force.

Around the world on March 10th, Tibetans and their supporters remember and pay tribute to all those who have sacrificed their lives for Tibet’s struggle. An estimated one million Tibetans have perished and 98% of monasteries and nunneries were destroyed under the Chinese occupation.

March 12th, 2025, marks the anniversary of the Tibetan Women’s Uprising. Following the National Uprising Day on March 10th, 1959, thousands of Tibetan women gathered in front of the Potala Palace in Lhasa to demonstrate for Tibetan independence.

Read this blog post to learn more about these important dates and why Tibetans are in exile.

May 31, 2026: Saga Dawa Düchen

The most important month in the Tibetan calendar is Saga Dawa, the 4th lunar month, which runs this year from May 17 to June 15th, 2026. The 15th day of the 4th lunar month, the full moon day, is called Saga Dawa Düchen. Düchen means “great occasion,” and this day is the holiest day of the year for Tibetan Buddhists. In 2026, Saga Dawa Düchen is on May 31st.

Saga Dawa, Saga Dawa Duchen, words of the Buddha, Tibetan Buddhist nuns at Dolma Ling

Every year, during the month of Saga Dawa, over several days, the nuns at Dolma Ling Nunnery read the entire Tibetan Buddhist canon or Kangyur, the 108 volumes of the spoken words of the Buddha. Photo courtesy of the Dolma Ling Media Nuns.

Saga Dawa Düchen commemorates the birth, enlightenment, and parinirvana of Buddha Shakyamuni. In other Buddhist traditions, this occasion is known as Vesak or is sometimes called Buddha Day.

Saga Dawa is known as the month of merits. Tibetans believe that during this month the merits of your actions are multiplied. Tibetan Buddhists make extra effort to practice more generosity, virtue, and compassion to accumulate greater merit. On the 15th day of the month or Saga Dawa Düchen the merits of your actions are hugely increased.

Tibetan Buddhist nuns reading the kangyur for Saga Dawa

Tibetan Buddhist nuns at Dolma Ling read the Kangyur, the spoken words of the Buddha, during the holy month of Saga Dawa. Photo by the Dolma Ling Media Nuns.

July 6: His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s Birthday

His Holiness the Dalai Lama 90th birthday

His Holiness the Dalai Lama waves to the crowd as he arrives at his 90th birthday celebration on July 6, 2025. His Holiness the Dalai Lama is the patron of the Tibetan Nuns Project. Photo by Tenzin Choejor, OHHDL, dalailama.com

His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s birthday on July 6th is celebrated worldwide with happiness and prayers for his good health and long life. This year, His Holiness the Dalai Lama turns 91. To mark His Holiness’s 90th birthday, the Central Tibetan Administration organized a year-long celebration running to July 5th, 2026.

Here’s a collage of some of the many ways that the nuns celebrated His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s 90th birthday in 2025.

Each year on His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s birthday, the nuns pray and make special offerings of tsok, khataks (prayer scarves), and sangsol (incense offering) to His Holiness. Here’s a photo essay and blog post of the many ways that the nuns at two nunneries celebrated His Holiness’s 90th birthday last year.

They also celebrate with games and special food such as Tibetan momos, the steamed savory dumplings that are loved by Tibetans around the world and made on Tibetan Buddhist holidays. Here is a recipe for vegetarian momos so you can celebrate at home.

June 29, 2026: Universal Prayer Day

Universal Prayer Day celebrated by Tibetan Buddhist nuns

On Universal Prayer Day, nuns hold handfuls of tsampa, roasted barley flour, which they will throw into the air as part of the celebrations. In addition to prayers, the nuns also burn fragrant juniper boughs on this day. Photo by the Dolma Ling Media Nuns.

Universal Prayer Day or Dzam Ling Chi Sang falls on the 15th day of the 5th month of the Tibetan Lunar calendar, so it falls in June or July. This year it is on June 29th, just before His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s birthday on July 6th. It is a time for spiritual cleansing and Tibetans hang prayer flags and burn fragrant juniper boughs.

July 18, 2026: Buddha’s First Teaching

Called Chokhor Düchen, this important day falls on the fourth day of the sixth lunar month. This day is the third “great occasion” or düchen in the Tibetan Buddhist calendar. It celebrates the first teaching by the historical Buddha, named Siddhartha at birth and commonly known as Shakyamuni Buddha.

On this day, over 2,500 years ago, the Buddha taught the Four Noble Truths in Sarnath, shortly after attaining enlightenment in Bodh Gaya. This event is known as the “turning of the wheel of dharma”. In Theravada traditions, this event is remembered on Dhamma Day, also known as Asalha Puja, and is generally marked on the full moon of the eighth lunar month. To celebrate Chokhor Düchen, Tibetan Buddhists make pilgrimages to holy places, offer incense, and hang prayer flags.

November 1, 2026: Buddha’s Descent from Heaven

Tibetan Buddhist nun praying by Olivier Adam

Tibetan Buddhist nun praying. Photo courtesy of Olivier Adam.

Another “great occasion” or düchen in the Tibetan Buddhist calendar is Lhabab Düchen. This date commemorates the Buddha’s descent from the heavenly realm, where he had gone to impart teachings to his mother, Maya Devi (or Mayadevi), who had been reborn there. She had passed away seven days after his birth. To repay her kindness and liberate her from samsara, and also to benefit the gods, Buddha spent three months teaching in the realm of the gods.

Lhabab Düchen occurs on the 22nd day of the ninth lunar month, according to the Tibetan calendar. On this day, the karmic effects of our actions are multiplied millions of times. In the Tibetan Buddhist tradition, people engage in virtuous activities and pray to gain merit and to mark this special occasion.

February 7, 2027: Losar (Tibetan New Year)

Tibetan Buddhist nuns offering at Losar Tibetan New Year. Photo by Olivier Adam

Losar in 2027 falls on February 7th and is the start of the Year of the Fire Sheep, 2154, according to the Tibetan calendar.

Keep Track with the 2026 Tibetan Nuns Project Calendar

You can order our 2026 Tibetan Nuns Project calendar. It’s a great way to keep track of the Tibetan Buddhist holidays and all the special events throughout the year. The calendar has the dates of the Tibetan lunar calendar, Tibetan holidays, and special ritual days for Tibetan Buddhist practices. It also has inspirational quotes and, of course, beautiful photos taken by the nuns. It costs $13 and your purchase helps support around 900 Tibetan Buddhist nuns and seven nunneries in India. Thank you for your support!

The 2025 Geshema Graduation and Inter-Nunnery Debate

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On November 6th, 47 Tibetan Buddhist nuns graduated as Geshemas in the holy city of Bodh Gaya. The Geshema degree is the highest academic degree in the Gelug tradition and was only opened to women in 2012. This is the largest group of Geshema graduates since the first Geshema graduation took place in 2016, bringing the total number of Geshemas to 120.

Congratulations to the 47 Tibetan Buddhist nuns who graduated in November 2025 as Geshemas.

In this blog post, we share photos taken by the Dolma Ling Media Nuns of the special event and news of the annual inter-nunnery debate, the Jang Gonchoe, which started 30 years ago in 1995.

Record Number of Nuns Earn Geshema Degrees

In the summer of 2025, a record number of nuns took various levels of exams for the Geshema degree, equivalent to a PhD in Tibetan Buddhist philosophy. The rigorous written and oral are completed over four years, with one set held each year. To be eligible to take their Geshema exams, the nuns must first complete at least 17 years of study.

A collage showing parts of the Geshema graduation ceremony in November 2025. Elements include an oath-taking ceremony and a special debate event, followed by a traditional khata (scarf) offering ceremony.

The Geshemas are paving the way for other nuns to follow in their footsteps. The momentum is building. Not long ago, this increased status of nuns was almost unimaginable. We are so grateful for your support to educate and empower these dedicated women!

2025 marks another new record for nuns taking various levels of the 4-year Geshema exams. The degree was only opened to women in 2012. No exams were held in 2020 or 2021 due to COVID.

The exams were hosted this year by Dolma Ling Nunnery and Institute near Dharamsala from July 21 to August 16, 2025. The costs of the nuns’ travel, food, and the exam process were once again covered by the Tibetan Nuns Project’s Geshema Endowment Fund.

In November, the Jang Gonchoe closing ceremony and Geshema certification were held on the same day, attended by chief guests Dr. Mahashweta Maharathi, Secretary of the Bodh Gaya Temple Management Committee and Gen Tenzin la from Namgyal Monastery in Dharamsala.

Here’s a list of the Geshema graduations since the formal approval in 2012:

2016: 20 nuns became Geshemas
2017: 6 nuns graduated as Geshemas
2018: 10 nuns became Geshemas
2019: 7 nuns graduated at the end of November
2020: exams cancelled due to the pandemic
2021: exams cancelled due to the pandemic
2022: 10 nuns became Geshemas
2023: 7 nuns graduated
2024: 13 nuns graduated as Geshemas at the 7th convocation ceremony
2025: 47 nuns graduated as Geshemas in Bodh Gaya

The Annual Inter-Nunnery Debate

From October 5th to November 8th, 460 nuns and 23 teachers from 10 Tibetan Buddhist nunneries in India and Nepal gathered in Bodh Gaya for one month of intensive training in monastic debate.

Tibetan Buddhist nuns from India and Nepal practice debating at the Mahabodhi Temple (literally the “Great Awakening Temple”) in Bodh Gaya, marking the location where the Buddha attained enlightenment.

Monastic debate is of critical importance in traditional Tibetan Buddhist learning. Through debate, nuns test and consolidate their classroom learning.

inter-nunnery debate in Bodh Gaya 2025 with Tibetan Buddhist nuns

A teacher guides Tibetan Buddhist nuns during their month-long intensive training in monastic debate in Bodh Gaya. 2025 marks the 30th anniversary of the start of the Jang Gonchoe for nuns in 1995.

Although the nuns practice debate daily at their nunneries, the annual Jang Gonchoe debate event provides essential training and practice that is vital for those who wish to pursue higher degrees. The nuns are very grateful to the Kagyu Monlam Office for lending the space since 2019 to the nunneries during Jang Gonchoe and for their continued support.

At the Jang Gonchoe, the nuns take part in structured debate sessions with individual and class-wide debates, followed by an evening inter-nunnery session where two nuns answer questions from a team from another nunnery. Debate strengthens reasoning skills, confidence, and understanding of Buddhist studies.

The inter-nunnery debate helps bring the nuns closer to equality with the monks in terms of learning opportunities and advancement along the spiritual path.

This year, nuns from these 10 nunneries participated:
1.    Geden Choeling: 3 teachers + 64 nuns = 67
2.    Jamyang Choeling: 2 teachers + 37 nuns = 39
3.    Dolma Ling: 3 teachers + 92 nuns = 95
4.    Jangchub Choeling: 4 teachers + 77 nuns = 81
5.    Kachoe Gakyil Ling: 4 teachers + 64 nuns = 68
6.    Thukche Choeling: 2 teachers + 32 nuns = 34
7.    Jangsemling: 1 teacher + 17 nuns = 18
8.    Jampa Choeling – 1 teacher + 11 nuns = 12
9.    Yangchen Choeling : 1 teacher + 26 nuns = 27
10. Sherab Choeling: 2 teachers + 39 nuns = 41

Annual internunnery debate in Bodh Gaya 2025, Jang Gonchoe

Nuns practice monastic debate in pairs and groups during the month-long Jang Gonchoe. The nuns expressed appreciation to the Kagyu Monlam Office for lending the space in Bodh Gaya for the Jang Gonchoe since 2019 and for their continued support.

1995-2025: The 30th Anniversary of the Inter-Nunnery Debate

The Jang Gonchoe for nuns was first initiated in 1995, making this year its 30th anniversary, though there was a year-long gap during the Covid pandemic when the event could not take place. Because of that missed year, the nuns’ committee has decided to count this as the 29th Jang Gonchoe instead of the 30th.

Jang Gonchoe inter nunnery debate 2025 in Bodh Gaya 2

The inter-nunnery debate has been supported since 1997 by the Tibetan Nuns Project through our Jang Gonchoe Endowment Fund. Now we want to put more of our core programs on a sustainable footing with our Long-Term Stability Fund.

Before 1995, there was no Jang Gonchoe for nuns and this learning opportunity was only open to monks. The Tibetan Nuns Project, with the wonderful support of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, played a critical role in opening up this learning opportunity to women. Establishing a comparable debate session for nuns has been an integral part of the nuns reaching their current level of excellence in their studies.

The inter-nunnery debate has been supported since 1997 by the Tibetan Nuns Project. Our Jang Gonchoe Endowment Fund covers costs such as transportation, food, and accommodation for the nuns and teachers who wish to attend.

The following video is a great primer on Tibetan Buddhist debate by nuns. It’s taken from a longer video made by the nuns at Dolma Ling Nunnery in northern India. It answers many of the frequently asked questions about Tibetan Buddhist debate, such as the meaning of the hand movements.

Can’t see the video? Click here.

Nuns Learning Tibetan Buddhist Debate

“It all happened because of the kindness, generosity, and genuine concern shown by all the wonderful donors who supported us for so many years,” said Rinchen Khando Choegyal, Founding Director and Special Advisor to the Tibetan Nuns Project, in a past interview.

“Much as we had the blessings from His Holiness the Dalai Lama and the vision, determination, and courage to pursue this matter to the full, without their generosity we would not have been able to have the Jang Gonchoe every year, which was and is the moving force behind every step of progress in education the nuns have made,” she said.

In 2025, 460 nuns from ten nunneries took part in the annual inter-nunnery debate, the Jang Gonchoe. The event began in 1995. Prior to that, nuns did not have this opportunity.

His Holiness the Dalai Lama has often spoken of the need to examine the teachings of the Buddha closely and with an inquisitive mind. “This is the 21st century and we need to understand the Buddha’s teachings in the light of reason. When we teach, we need to do so on the basis of reason,” His Holiness the Dalai Lama told the nuns at the end of the 2014 Jang Gonchoe.

His Holiness added, “Nowadays, the Nalanda tradition of approaching the Buddha’s teachings with logic and reason is only found amongst Tibetans. It’s something precious we can be proud of and should strive to preserve.”

A portrait of His Holiness the Dalai Lama is placed at the Mahabodhi Temple in Bodh Gaya, marking the place where the Buddha attained enlightenment. His Holiness the Dalai Lama is the patron of the Tibetan Nuns Project.

Support Long-Term Stability

The annual Geshema exams and the inter-nunnery debate are both funded by endowments and are now self-sustaining thanks to our generous supporters.

We are extremely grateful to the 159 donors to the Geshema Endowment, including the Pema Chodron Foundation, the Pierre and Pamela Omidyar Fund of the Silicon Valley Community Foundation, the Frederick Family Foundation, and the Donaldson Charitable Trust. We are also very grateful to all those who sponsor nuns and help them on their path.

Now we want to put more of our core programs on a sustainable footing with our Long-Term Stability Fund. Thank you for supporting this vision. You can learn more and donate here.

His Holiness the Dalai Lama Says He Will Be Reincarnated

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On July 2nd, His Holiness the Dalai Lama released an eagerly awaited statement about his succession. The news made global headlines. He reiterated that “the Gaden Phodrang Trust has sole authority to recognize the future reincarnation; no one else has any such authority to interfere in this matter.”

His Holiness the Dalai Lama, patron of the Tibetan Nuns Project, turns 90 on July 6th, 2025. We wish him a very happy birthday and pray for his good health and long life.

Here is the full statement.

photo of His Holiness the Dalai Lama reading a statement.

Photo from the Office of His Holiness the Dalai Lama.

Statement Affirming the Continuation of the Institution of Dalai Lama

July 2, 2025
(Translated from the original Tibetan)

On 24 September 2011, at a meeting of the heads of Tibetan spiritual traditions, I made a statement to fellow Tibetans in and outside Tibet, followers of Tibetan Buddhism, and those who have a connection with Tibet and Tibetans, regarding whether the institution of the Dalai Lama should continue. I stated, “As far back as 1969, I made clear that concerned people should decide whether the Dalai Lama’s reincarnations should continue in the future.”

I also said, “When I am about ninety, I will consult the high Lamas of the Tibetan Buddhist traditions, the Tibetan public, and other concerned people who follow Tibetan Buddhism, to re-evaluate whether or not the institution of the Dalai Lama should continue.”

Although I have had no public discussions on this issue, over the last 14 years leaders of Tibet’s spiritual traditions, members of the Tibetan Parliament in Exile, participants in a Special General Body Meeting, members of the Central Tibetan Administration, NGOs, Buddhists from the Himalayan region, Mongolia, Buddhist republics of the Russian Federation and Buddhists in Asia including mainland China, have written to me with reasons, earnestly requesting that the institution of the Dalai Lama continue. In particular, I have received messages through various channels from Tibetans in Tibet making the same appeal. In accordance with all these requests, I am affirming that the institution of the Dalai Lama will continue.

The process by which a future Dalai Lama is to be recognized has been clearly established in the 24 September 2011 statement which states that responsibility for doing so will rest exclusively with members of the Gaden Phodrang Trust, the Office of His Holiness the Dalai Lama. They should consult the various heads of the Tibetan Buddhist traditions and the reliable oath-bound Dharma Protectors who are linked inseparably to the lineage of the Dalai Lamas. They should accordingly carry out the procedures of search and recognition in accordance with past tradition.

I hereby reiterate that the Gaden Phodrang Trust has sole authority to recognize the future reincarnation; no one else has any such authority to interfere in this matter.

Dalai Lama

Dharamshala
21 May 2025

Tibetan Buddhist Nuns Reconnect With Rare Spiritual Tradition

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Tibetan Buddhist nuns from five nunneries in northern India reconnected with a rare spiritual tradition ahead of His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s 90th birthday.

As part of the upcoming celebrations for His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s 90th birthday on July 6, 2025, the Tibetan Nuns Project organized a deeply meaningful workshop to help preserve a rare and fading tradition.

workshop at Tilokpur Nunnery on Phowa Dhoshak stone breaking ceremony

Nuns at Tilokpur Nunnery gathered for a workshop on the ancient, rare spiritual tradition of Phowa Dhoshak, dating back many hundreds of years.

From May 27th to 30th, 2025, Mr. Dorje Rinchen led a series of sessions at five nunneries: Dolma Ling, Shugsep, Tilokpur, Geden Choeling, and Jamyang Choeling. The workshops focused on the unique role of Lama Manipas (wandering Buddhist storytellers) and the ritual practice of Phowa Dhoshak, the symbolic act of breaking a stone on the abdomen for healing ailments and rare diseases.

Dolma Ling nuns attend workshop on ancient, rare spiritual tradition of Phowa Dhoshak

At the end of May, nuns at Dolma Ling Nunnery and Institute learned about the meaning, structure, and purpose of the rare practice of Phowa Dhoshak. Photo by the Dolma Ling Media Nuns.

Rooted in the legacy of Saint Thangtong Gyalpo, Phowa Dhoshak is more than a ritual. It is also a powerful expression of spiritual strength. Through detailed presentations and demonstrations, Gen Dorje Rinchen introduced the nuns to the meaning, structure, and deeper purpose of this rare practice. For many of the nuns, it was their first encounter with a tradition they had only heard about in passing.

Gen Dorjee Rinchen categorized the practice into 13 key topics and delivered a presentation on them, including the origins of the practice, the associated visualizations and recitations, and the reasons behind this spiritual tradition.

Dolma Ling Principal Geshema Delek Wangmo and teacher Dorje Rinchen workshop on Tibetan Buddhist tradition

Dolma Ling Principal Geshema Delek Wangmo (left) and teacher Dorje Rinchen during the workshop at the end of May. Photo by the Dolma Ling Media Nuns.

The sessions sparked enthusiasm and a deep reflection. Many of the nuns voiced a strong desire to learn more, to understand the physical ritual, and to explore its spiritual and historical roots. This dialogue has opened up new possibilities for research and study while assisting the nuns to feel more connected to a lineage that has long shaped Buddhist culture.

Nuns at Shugsep Nunnery gather in the library for a workshop on a rare Tibetan Buddhist tradition.

At a time when many such sacred practices are at risk of fading into obscurity, the Tibetan Nuns Project’s efforts are making sure that the next generation of Buddhist nuns is not only aware of these teachings, but also feels empowered to carry them forward.

Tibetan Buddhist Prayers or Pujas

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The Power of Prayer

Buddhists believe that prayers can help relieve suffering and overcome obstacles. In Tibetan culture, it is common to request Buddhist nuns and monks to say prayers and perform spiritual ceremonies. The prayers and pujas can be for many purposes such as good health, long life, success, and to ease the journey of someone who has passed away.

Tibetan Buddhist nuns praying at Dolma Ling Nunnery.

In challenging times when we feel helpless, sponsoring prayers and pujas brings comfort to the giver and the person receiving the blessings. Tibetans recite mantras and prayers to purify the mind, deal with negative emotions, increase merit, and invite help from the Buddha and various enlightened beings.

What is a puja?

Puja is a Sanskrit term meaning offering or worship. In Tibetan Buddhism, the word puja is used to describe a variety of ritual performances and prayers typically conducted in temples, nunneries, or monasteries.

The specific actions vary depending on the tradition but generally include chanting and reciting ritual texts to bring blessings, purify the mind, and cultivate merit. Pujas generally include offerings to show respect and reverence for Buddhas and bodhisattvas. These offerings include incense, light as butter lamps or candles, flowers, fruit, and water.

Tibetan Buddhist nuns at Shugsep Nunnery holding sacred texts as part of a puja.

How to Sponsor a Puja by Tibetan Buddhist Nuns

You don’t have to be a Buddhist to request prayers. You can ask the Tibetan Buddhist nuns in northern India to perform prayers and pujas on your behalf.

People around the world can sponsor pujas or prayers through our Tibetan Nuns Project website. You can sponsor prayers in honor of loved ones, friends, family members, or even pets who may be suffering from obstacles, ill health, or who have passed away.

When requesting a puja or prayers from the Tibetan Nuns Project please provide information about who the prayers are to be directed to and for what purpose. The funds given to the nuns to sponsor pujas are used to purchase supplies and also help to support the nunnery as a whole.

butter lamps, Tibetan Buddhist nuns, Dolma Ling, Dharamsala, pujas, order pujas

Tibetan Buddhist nuns at Dolma Ling Nunnery prepare hundreds of butter lamps for a special puja.

A gift of prayer is something very special. As soon as we receive your request for a puja, we will send you a thank you message by email. As soon as possible after that, the nuns will email you a confirmation note and receipt to let you know that the puja has been performed.

Types of Tibetan Buddhist Pujas by the Nuns

There are many different types of prayers or pujas to choose from, ranging from offering 100 butter lamps to the elaborate “21 Praises to Tara” which includes 100,000 recitations of the Tara prayer, renowned for removing obstacles and fulfilling wishes. Here are the descriptions. You can find all the pujas and costs listed here.

Butter Lamps Offering (Mar-me): Butter lamps are part of daily traditional Tibetan practice and are also lit for many occasions. It is common to offer butter lamps for those who are sick or have passed away (to light the path towards liberation). Butter lamps are also lit for happy occasions like birthdays and marriages, or to aid with focus and meditation. Tibetans light butter lamps on sacred days in the Tibetan Buddhist calendar, such as the 10th, 15th and 25th day of each lunar month, as well as during the holy month of Saga Dawa. This offering will provide fuel to light 100 butter lamps, which is usually butter or oil.

Tibetan nuns at Dolma Ling Nunnery offer butter lamps as part of a healing puja. Photo by Brian Harris

Medicine Buddha (Men-la): This puja aids in healing physical, mental, and emotional ailments. It invokes the wisdom and blessings of the Medicine Buddha (Sang-gyay Men-la) and can also enhance and support your work if you are a medical practitioner.

Offering to Tara (Drol-chok): Tara is known as a protector who relieves physical, emotional, and spiritual suffering. This elaborate offering involves creating ritual cakes called tormas and the use of musical instruments. This puja is particularly effective in removing obstacles and fulfilling wishes.

White Tara surrounded by mani stones by Heather Wardle

White Tara surrounded by mani stones. Tara is especially revered in Tibetan Buddhism and is known as the “mother of liberation”. Photo courtesy of Heather Wardle

Twenty-One Praises to Tara (Dolma-bum): Tara is believed to be a Bodhisattva of compassion and a protector who relieves physical, emotional, and spiritual suffering. Each of the twenty-one emanations of Tara has her own name, special attributes, and a specific mantra with which she is associated, offering protection from various types of fears, harm, and calamities. The Praises to the 21 Taras puja protects you from fear and dangers and is renowned for removing obstacles and fulfilling wishes, especially wishes on the spiritual path. This puja includes 100,000 recitations of the “Twenty-one Praises to Tara” prayer. Due to the time-intensive nature of this prayer, it will take an average of two weeks to complete.

Here is a sound recording made by Olivier Adam of the nuns chanting the Tara Puja. Can’t hear it? Click here and scroll down.

Long Life Ritual (Nam-gyal Tse-chok): This is a prayer for longevity to the female deity, Nam-gyal-ma, one of the three buddhas of long life.

Tibetan tormas, Tibetan Buddhist nuns, Tibetan sacred arts, tormas, Tibetan ritual arts

Tibetan Buddhist nuns prepare tormas for a puja. Tormas are figures made mostly of flour and butter used in tantric rituals or as offerings. Photo courtesy of Brian Harris.

Four Hundred Offerings (Gyab-zhi): Gyab-zhi is one of the most widely practiced ceremonies in Tibetan Buddhism. The ritual involves four sets of 100 offerings: 100 butter lamps to eradicate delusion; 100 ritual cakes called tormas to overcome desires; 100 human effigies made of dough to subdue the demon of death; and 100 tsa-tsa which are stamped clay votive images to overcome tainted aggregates. The intention of the Four Hundred Offerings is to aid in overcoming inauspiciousness, disease, untimely death, and challenging supernatural forces.

Tibetan Buddhist nun holding tormas. Photo by Olivier Adam copy

Three Pairs (Chak-sum): Chak-sum is an offering of three ritual cakes, or tormas: one to the protectors of the Buddha Dharma, another to local spirits, and a third to the suffering beings of the “Hungry Ghost Realm.” These offerings are intended to aid in the purification of negativities.

Cutting Through the Ego (Chöd – Simple): This puja aims at cutting through the hindrances or obscurations of self-cherishing thought and ignorance, the greatest obstacles on the path to enlightenment. The Chöd puja involves prayer, chanting, visualizations and the playing of Tibetan instruments such as the hand drum. It can also be effective for those who are severely ill. This puja is performed by the nuns at Shugsep Nunnery and Institute.

Chod practice at Shugsep Nunnery and Institute

Cutting Through Ego (Chöd – Elaborate with Tormas): The tantric practice of Chöd is effective for those who are severely ill. This elaborate version of Chöd (pronounced chö) involves the creation and offering of various ritual barley cakes called tormas. During the ritual, the nuns immerse themselves in chanting, music, prayer and visualizations. While reciting the Chöd rite the nuns are accompanied by the sound of several Tibetan instruments: the damaru or hand drum, the kangling, a reed instrument, and the large Chöd drum, which is larger than the hand drum. This puja is performed by the nuns at Shugsep Nunnery and Institute.

Gya-thong-pa & Sung-dhu: This puja involves reading the 800-verse Perfection of Wisdom Sutra and the Collection of Dharanis. It generates great merit and helps to overcome sickness and other obstacles.

A Paradigm Shift for Tibetan Buddhist Nuns

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A Paradigm Shift

Less than ten years ago, the first Tibetan Buddhist nuns made history when they graduated with the Geshema degree, equivalent to a PhD in Tibetan Buddhism.

Until 2012, the highest degree was only open to men. The 2016 Geshema graduation ceremony, presided over by His Holiness the Dalai Lama, marked a new chapter in the education of ordained Buddhist women.

His Holiness the Dalai Lama blesses the Geshema nuns who have completed their further studies in Tantric Buddhism.

This winter, His Holiness the Dalai Lama blessed the Geshema nuns who completed a one-year program in Tantric Buddhism. The laywomen are Nangsa Choedon, Director (top) and Tenzin Palkyi, Project Coordinator at the Tibetan Nuns Project in India.

Their success fulfilled a longstanding wish of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, the patron of the Tibetan Nuns Project. It was even more remarkable because some of the nuns were illiterate when they escaped from Tibet.

Since those first 20 nuns stepped across the stage to make history, many nuns have followed in their footsteps. Last year, a record 144 nuns sat various levels of the four-year Geshemas exams and 13 graduated as Geshemas, bringing the total number of Geshemas to 73.

His Holiness the Dalai Lama with the 20 Geshema graduates in 2016. Photo courtesy of OHHDL.

This change in the status and education of Tibetan Buddhist nuns would not have been possible without the steadfast generosity of our supporters. Thank you! The Geshemas are now assuming leadership and teaching roles previously closed to women.

Fifth Set of Graduates from the Tantric Studies Program

Last month, on February 19th, 2025, nine Geshemas graduated from the year-long Tantric Studies program at Gyuto Tantric University near Dolma Ling Nunnery and Institute.

Here’s a charming video of the graduation made by the Dolma Ling Media Nuns. Can’t see the video? Click here.

The Tibetan Nuns Project launched the Tantric Buddhism study program in 2017 thanks to the support of generous donors. Although there have been accomplished female practitioners in Tibet’s history, women have never before been given such an opportunity to formally study Tantric Buddhism.

A Tibetan Buddhist nun receives a blessing from His Holiness the Dalai Lama Dec 2024

A Geshema receives blessings from His Holiness the Dalai Lama in December 2024 after completing a one-year program in Tantric Buddhism. These women pioneers have accomplished a level of scholarship and Buddhist training that, until recently, was only open to men.

Another Step Towards Equality

The Tibetan Nuns Project has played a pivotal role in advocating for equality of access to education and higher degrees. The Tantric Buddhism program for nuns helps bring them more in line with monks for learning opportunities and advancement along the spiritual path.

Once monks attain their Geshe degree, if they want to be fully qualified masters capable of teaching their complete tradition, they must add to their knowledge an understanding of the principles of Tantra and the main Tantric practices of their tradition. For these studies, monks usually join one of the two Tantric Colleges where they have access to highly qualified teachers, texts, and a supportive community of practitioners. Until recently, these options weren’t available to nuns.

Tantric studies, Tibetan nuns, Tibetan Buddhism, Dolma Ling

For the first time in the history of Tibet, Buddhist nuns have the opportunity to formally study Tantric Buddhism. The program started in 2017 and now the fifth set of nuns has graduated. Photo courtesy of the Nuns Media Team.

The Tantric studies program for nuns began in 2017 after a committee of representatives from six nunneries approached His Holiness the Dalai Lama for advice about the curriculum and how to proceed.

His Holiness the Dalai Lama kindly gave detailed instructions about the treatises to be used and recommended that the Geshema nuns study as a group at Dolma Ling Nunnery. The first Geshemas graduated in 2019.

Tibetan Buddhist nun graduates from Tantric Buddhism Program Feb 2025

Nangsa Chodon, Director of the Tibetan Nuns Project in India, presents the degree certificate at the graduation ceremony on February 19, 2025, for the fifth group of Geshemas who completed their studies in Tantric Buddhism.

The Tantric Studies program will continue as more nuns obtain the Geshema degree. In January 2025, the Tibetan Nuns Project completed the funding for 16 rooms at Dolma Ling where the Geshemas from India and Nepal can stay while they take the program. This is an exciting development of a safe space for the nuns to stay and focus on their studies.

Building a Solid Future

The Tantric studies program for nuns is funded through our Geshema Endowment which also supports the annual Geshema exams and the Geshema graduation each November. We are extremely grateful to the 159 donors to the Geshema Endowment, including the Pema Chodron Foundation, the Pierre and Pamela Omidyar Fund of the Silicon Valley Community Foundation, the Frederick Family Foundation, and the Donaldson Charitable Trust.

Feb 2025 Graduation ceremony for Tibetan Buddhist Geshemas who completed their one-year program in Tantric Buddhism

On February 19, 2025, the fifth cohort of Geshemas graduated from their one-year program in Tantric Buddhism. Nine nuns graduated from this special program launched by the Tibetan Nuns Project in 2017.

The Tibetan Nuns Project wants to put more of its core programs on solid ground through our Long-Term Stability Fund and through encouraging supporters to leave a legacy of compassion to help the nuns.

As one supporter said, “A donation to this cause benefits beyond helping just the nuns… it benefits the Tibetan culture, it benefits refugees from Tibet, it benefits education for women, it benefits the Buddhist religion and community and all of this spreads like a ripple of compassion for others beyond that community. This is not charity; it is an investment in humanity.”