Tag Archives: His Holiness the Dalai Lama

Nuns Celebrate 30 Years of Monastic Debate Training

The 2026 inter-nunnery debate called the Jang Gonchoe was held this year from September 20th to October 20th in Dharamsala and brought together 475 participants from 11 Tibetan nunneries in India and Nepal.

The gathering created a vibrant atmosphere of learning, discussion, and intellectual exchange, as the nuns came together to explore Buddhist philosophy, sharpen their reasoning skills, and learn from one another.

2026 inter nunnery debate Jang Gonchoe Dharamsala Tibetan Nuns Project

The winter debate session is a cornerstone of the nuns’ education, allowing scholars from different nunneries to gather, challenge, and refine each other’s philosophical understandings. The event was opened to nun in 1995.

The Power of the Jang Gonchoe: Decades in the Making

Monastic debate is of critical importance in traditional Tibetan Buddhist learning. It is through debate that nuns test, challenge, and consolidate their classroom learning.

Although nuns practice debate daily within their individual nunneries, the annual Jang Gonchoe debate provides essential, intensive training and practice for those who wish to pursue higher degrees, such as the Geshema degree, the highest academic degree in the Gelug tradition of Tibetan Buddhism, roughly equivalent to a doctorate.

Tibetan Buddhist nuns practice debate at the 2026 Jang Gonchoe. Photo by the Dolma Ling Media Nuns.

In 2026, the nuns marked 30 years of the nuns’ annual inter-nunnery debate, which began in 1995. Prior to 1995, this learning opportunity was not open to women.

Over the last three decades, this intensive month-long training has been held in various locations such as the sacred city of Bodh Gaya and Dolma Ling Nunnery. The 2026 Jang Gonchoe took place in Dharamsala. It was extra special because the nuns also had the opportunity to debate in front of His Holiness the Dalai Lama.

Tibetan Buddhist nuns debate in front of His Holiness the Dalai Lama Oct 18 2026 by Tenzin Choejor OHHDL

The structure of the Jang Gonchoe is famously rigorous. Nuns take part in structured debate sessions with individual and group debates. This is followed by an evening inter-nunnery session, where two nuns must defend their positions and answer quick-fire questions from an opposing team from another nunnery.

Tibetan Buddhist nuns practice debate at night in the 2026 Jang Gonchoe

The Tsenphue Damcha or night-long monastic debate ceremony is an important element of the annual Jang Gonchoe. Photo by the Dolma Ling Media Nuns.

This intensive environment does more than sharpen reasoning skills; it builds immense confidence, deepens understanding of Buddhist studies, and brings nuns closer to monks in learning opportunities and spiritual advancement.

Special Events at the Main Temple in Dharamsala

On October 17, 2026, at Tsuglagkhang, the main temple in Dharamsala, the nuns held their Geshema Damcha (the Oath-Taking Ceremony). During the ceremony, participating nuns of the Jang Gonchoe posed questions to the graduating Geshemas. It is the concluding ritual before the nuns officially graduate as Geshemas.

The 2026 Geshema Damcha at the main temple in Dharamsala. Damcha refers to the formal answering part of the monastic debate process, where candidates defend their knowledge against challengers. Photos OHHDL

On Sunday, 18 October, a very special event for the nuns was held at the main Tibetan temple in Dharamsala, just outside His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s residence. The large courtyard became a vibrant forum for this ancient form of analytical scholarship.

His Holiness the Dalai Lama with 2026 Geshema grads and other Tibetan Buddhist nunsJPG

Met by leadership from the Tibetan Nuns Project and the Buddhist Women’s Education Society, His Holiness the Dalai Lama arrived to observe the fruits of the nuns’ hard work.

During the special event, nuns took part in rigorous debate presentations in front of His Holiness the Dalai Lama. They showcased their analytical skills on complex topics such as the Mahayana generation of bodhicitta and the correct reasoning behind the selflessness of persons. His Holiness also blessed each of this year’s 33 Geshema graduates.

The Closing and Graduation Ceremony

On 20 October, the formal closing ceremony took place at Lower TCV where the majority of the 2026 Jang Gonchoe was held. This event drew together distinguished leaders and monastic scholars, including the chief guest, Kyabje Ling Choktrul Rinpoche, who personally presented the hard-earned diplomas to the 33 new Geshema grads.

Closing ceremony Geshema Graduation 2026 Dharamsala

The closing ceremony of the annual Inter-nunnery debate session and the Geshema graduation 2026.

The ceremony featured inspiring reminders of how far the education of Tibetan nuns has come, alongside guidance for the future. Chief guest Kyabje Ling Choktrul Rinpoche noted that, compared with the nuns of earlier times in Tibet, the nuns of today are very fortunate, and must hold on to these opportunities.

Secretary Jigme Namgyal urged the graduates to pursue single-pointed meditation or text study. For younger nuns, he emphasized a modern, well-rounded approach: studying Buddhist philosophy alongside sciences, grammar, and languages. Rinchen Khando Choegyal, TNP’s Founding Director and Special Advisor, spoke about the critical importance of harmonizing outer conduct with inner discipline and mental peace.

Rinchen Khando Choegyal TNP Founding Director and Special Advisor,

Rinchen Khando Choegyal, TNP’s Founding Director and Special Advisor, spoke at the closing ceremony. Photo by the Dolma Ling Media Nuns.

Speakers explicitly reminded the assembly that these transformative educational pathways exist because of the visionary benevolence and decades of advocacy by His Holiness the Dalai Lama.

Looking Forward

What was once an impossible dream for generations of Tibetan women is now a thriving annual event. We are extremely grateful to all our supporters who have made it possible for the Tibetan Nuns Project to fund the annual inter-nunnery debate for three decades.

The training that nuns receive at the annual inter-nunnery debate is essential for the Geshema degree. The graduation of the 9th group of Geshemas is proof that when given equal opportunities, dedication and intellect thrive.

You can help put more of our core programs on solid ground by donating to our Long-Term Stability Fund. Learn more and donate here.

Tibetan Buddhist nuns praying at the annual inter nunnery debate 2026. Photo by the Dolma Ling Media Nuns.

Breaking News: The 2026 Geshema Exam Results Are In!

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33 Geshemas Graduate as Record Number Take Exams

The 2026 Geshema exam results are in!

During the summer, a record number of Tibetan Buddhist nuns took various levels of the rigorous four-year exams for the Geshema degree. Of the 173 nuns who took exams, 156 passed. This is a 90% pass rate.

All 33 nuns who took their fourth and final year of exams passed. This brings the total number of Geshemas to 153 since the first Geshema graduation ceremony took place 10 years ago in 2016.

Their graduation ceremony was held on October 17th during the 30th annual Jang Gonchoe, a winter debate session attended by over 500 nuns from 11 nunneries in India and Nepal. Youdon Aukatsang, Director of the Tibetan Nuns Project office in India, expressed hope that the “growing number of highly educated nuns will play an important role in preserving and promoting Tibetan Buddhism” for future generations.

His Holiness the Dalai Lama blessed 2026 Geshema graduates

His Holiness the Dalai Lama blessed each of this year’s Geshema graduates at a special ceremony on October 18th, 2026 at the main Tibetan temple in Dharamsala. Photo courtesy of OHHDL.

The Geshema degree is the highest level of training in the Gelug tradition and is roughly equivalent to a PhD in Tibetan Buddhist philosophy. It is the same as the Geshe degree for monks, but the ending “ma” marks it as referring to a woman. Until recently, this degree was reserved for men. It was only formally opened to women in 2012. The opening up of higher degrees for nuns is a breakthrough for Tibetan Buddhist nuns’ education.

In 2026, nuns took the exams as follows:
1st-year exams: 62 nuns, 46 passed
2nd-year exams: 46 nuns, 45 passed
3rd year: 32 nuns took exams, all 32 passed
4th and final year: 33 nuns took exams, all 33 passed

His Holiness the Dalai Lama Blesses Geshema Grads

On October 18, 2026, around 500 Tibetan Buddhist nuns had an audience with His Holiness the Dalai Lama at the main Tibetan temple in Dharamsala and had a group photo. During the event, His Holiness bestowed the oral transmission of the Prayer to the Twenty-One Holy Women Siddhas of India and Tibet, which His Holiness composed. His Holiness blessed each of this year’s Geshema graduates.

What a blessing! His Holiness the Dalai Lama, the 2026 Geshema graduates, and around 500 Tibetan Buddhist nuns from India and Nepal on October 18th, 2026. Photo courtesy of OHHDL.

The gathering included 33 nuns from five monasteries in India and Nepal who completed their Geshema degrees this year, marking the ninth group to graduate from the advanced Buddhist studies program.

The 2026 Geshema graduates! Group photo take on October 20th, at the closing ceremony of the annual inter-nunnery debate, the Jang Gonchoe. Photo courtesy of Tibet.net.

A graduation ceremony was held on October 20th during the closing ceremony of the 30th Tibetan Nuns’ Winter Debate Session (Jang Gonchoe) at Lower TCV in Dharamsala. Kyabje Ling Choktrul Rinpoche attended as chief guest, alongside Kasur (former Kalon) Rinchen Khando, our Founding Director and Special Advisor: Jigme Namgyal, Secretary of the Department of Religion and Culture; Youdon Aukatsang, Director of the Tibetan Nuns Project in India; and Geshema Ngawang Chokyi, President of the 9th Geshema Exams Committee, from Jangchub Choeling Nunnery.

Here’s a video in Tibetan from the Office of His Holiness the Dalai Lama of the special event on October 18th in Dharamsala. Can’t see the video? Click here.

The very special ceremony was also covered by the news agency Radio Free Asia. You can see their video with interviews of nuns and read their Tibetan report here. And here’s the link to a photo essay on His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s website.

Tibetan Buddhist nuns debate in front of His Holiness the Dalai Lama at the main temple in Dharamsala on October 18, 2026. Photo by Tenzin Choejor, OHHDL.

The 2026 Geshema Exams

The 2026 Geshema exams were hosted by Geden Choeling Nunnery, the oldest Tibetan Buddhist nunnery in Dharamsala, India. The exams were held from July 21st to August 17th, with a one-month study period prior to the exams. The costs of the nuns’ travel, food, and the exam process were once again covered by the Tibetan Nuns Project.

Once again, there was a new record of nuns taking various levels of the four-year exams. Here’s a chart to show the growth since the degree was first approved for women in 2012.

Chart showing number of Tibetan Buddhist nuns taking Geshema exams over time

2026 marks another new record of number of 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.

As the number of nuns taking this highest degree grows, we need your help to make the Geshema exam process and the post-grad Tantric Studies sustainable. Please give to our Higher Studies for Nuns Fund so that financial constraints do not restrict nuns from pursuing advanced degrees and the specialized training needed to become scholars and teachers of their ancient traditions.

Group photo of the 173 Tibetan Buddhist nuns who took Geshema exams in 2026 Dharamsala

Group photo of the 173 Tibetan Buddhist nuns who took Geshema exams in 2026. The photo was taken at Geden Choeling Nunnery in Dharamsala which hosted this year’s exams. Photo by the Dolma Ling Media Nuns.

There is power in investing in women’s education. Your gifts empower the nuns to be teachers and leaders at a time when Tibetans and a troubled world need their wisdom and compassion.

Every little bit helps! No matter what the future of Tibet holds, you can help these dedicated and courageous women to preserve their culture and spiritual traditions. Thank you!

About the Geshema Degree

The Geshema degree enables Tibetan Buddhist nuns to become teachers, leaders, and role models. It makes these dedicated women eligible to assume various leadership roles in their monastic and lay communities reserved for degree holders and hence previously not open to women.

Geshema, Geshema nuns, Tibetan nuns, His Holiness the Dalai Lama

2026 marks the 10th anniversary of the first Geshema graduation on December 22, 2016 at which 20 nuns graduated. Here is a collage of photos by Olivier Adam and the OHHDL from that historic event.

The exams take four years to complete, with one set of exams held each year. The nuns gather for a final, one-month study period before the start of the two weeks of written and oral exams. Candidates are examined on the entirety of their 17-year course of study of the Five Great Canonical Texts. They must achieve a score of at least 75 per cent during their studies to be eligible to sit the exams.

TNP’s Founding Director and Special Advisor Rinchen Khando Choegyal has said, “Educating women is powerful… It’s about enabling the nuns to be teachers in their own right and to take on leadership roles at a critical time in our nation’s history.”

Here’s a list of the Geshema graduations since women were first allowed to take this degree 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 for a second year due to COVID
2022: 10 nuns became Geshemas
2023: 7 nuns graduated
2024: 13 nuns graduated
2025: 47 nuns graduated
2026: 33 nuns graduated on October 17th

This brings the total number of Geshemas to 153.

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

Thank you to everyone who sent good luck messages to the nuns this year! We gathered your messages from around the world and posted them at Geden Choeling for everyone to read before and during the exams.

Tibetan Buddhist nuns reading messages of support for the 2025 Geshema exams. Thank you to everyone who sent good wishes to the nuns!

Here’s a sample message from Danielle: “To the wonderful Sisters, Sending you my warmest thoughts and prayers for your Dharmasala exams! May you tackle every question with confidence, clarity, and the grace you always show. Trust in all your preparation. You’ve got this!”

The success of the nuns would not be possible without your support and the unwavering support and encouragement of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, patron of the Tibetan Nuns Project.

October 18 2026 Tibetan Buddhist nuns audience with His Holiness the Dalai Lama Dharamsala

On October 18, 2026, Tibetan Buddhist nuns debate in front of His Holiness the Dalai Lama at the main Tibetan temple in Dharamsala. Photo courtesy of OHHDL.

The Survival of Tibet’s Culture and Religion

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For generations, Tibetan culture has been sustained through its language, spiritual traditions, monastic institutions, and the dedication of Buddhist practitioners. Part of the Tibetan Nuns Project’s mission is to sustain Tibetan religion and culture.

Tibetan Buddhist nuns lighting butter lamps

In March 2026, His Holiness the Dalai Lama, patron of the Tibetan Nuns Project, wrote, “I appeal to every Tibetan to take personal responsibility and make dedicated efforts to cherish and preserve our Tibetan religion, culture, and language” as part of his annual message for March 10th, Tibetan National Uprising Day. Photos by Brian Harris

Our work is taking place against a backdrop of cultural genocide in Tibet. For the third year in a row, Tibet has received a global freedom score of 0 from the international human rights monitoring group Freedom House. Tibet remains “not free,” and its score of zero ties South Sudan for the second-lowest on the list of 208 areas examined.

March 10th, Tibetan Uprising Day, Tibetan demonstrations, protests by Tibetan Buddhist nuns

Draped in the Tibetan flags, Tibetan Buddhist nuns in India take part in peaceful demonstrations to mark the anniversary of Tibetan Uprising Day, March 10th. Photo courtesy of Olivier Adam

About 1 million Tibetan children have been separated from their families and placed into Chinese residential schools. Photos of His Holiness the Dalai Lama are banned, and celebrating his birthday can lead to arrest. Peaceful calls for religious freedom are punished with imprisonment under vague charges like “separatism” or “endangering state security”.

On July 1st, a sinister new Chinese law promoting linguistic, cultural, and ideological assimilation came into effect. Part of it mandates a “national common language” and prohibits any organization or individual from obstructing its dissemination. In practice, this may criminalize efforts by Tibetan communities to preserve and promote their own language in their own land.

Tibetan Buddhist nun practices Tibetan calligraphy

Preserving Tibet’s unique culture and religion is a service to the world. Your generosity helps protect a priceless heritage and empowers the women who are dedicating their lives to keeping it alive.

“The survival and identity of any people depends fundamentally on the preservation of their language,” said His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s representative in London. “Religion, culture, history, and collective memory are all preserved and transmitted through language. If a language disappears, the identity of that people gradually fades with it… With Tibetan children in Tibet being denied the right to learn their own language, we are approaching a critical threshold that threatens our existence as a distinct people in the world.”

Although we cannot directly change the situation inside Tibet, we can help Tibetans preserve their identity in exile.

Tibetan National Identity Preservation Week

The Central Tibetan Administration has declared the annual “Tibetan National Identity Preservation Week” to be observed from the fourth Wednesday of September through the following Wednesday. This year, the week runs from September 23 to September 30, 2026.

The week is part of a global campaign to confront and counter the Chinese Communist Government’s implementation of various methods and systematic policies aimed at eradicating Tibetan identity—specifically, its recently implemented so-called “Law on Promoting Ethnic Unity and Progress.”

Tibetan Buddhist nun sewing Tibetan prayer flags

A Tibetan Buddhist nun sews prayer flags at Dolma Ling Nunnery and Institute. Our online store sells many Tibetan items made and blessed by the nuns.

It’s significant that the week runs from a Wednesday to a Wednesday because “White Wednesday” or Lhakar is the day the Dalai Lama was born and is known as his “soul day.” On Lhakar, Tibetans actively resist China’s occupation by supporting and promoting Tibetan culture, eating Tibetan food, wearing Tibetan clothing, speaking Tibetan and celebrating their Tibetan identity. Lhakar is about celebrating Tibetan culture and engaging in civil resistance.

So far, the governments of Canada, the United States, Germany, Belgium, the United Kingdom, Australia, the Czech Republic, Japan, and the European Union have issued official statements declaring that the Chinese law violates international law, serves as a tool for forced assimilation, and poses a risk of transnational repression.

Two Tibetan Buddhist nuns play the dungchen, Tibetan long horns

Nuns playing the dungchen, a long trumpet with a deep, low sound used to are played to welcome high lamas and Rinpoches to a monastery or temple. Photo by the Media Nuns.

The Tibetan language is the backbone of Tibetan culture and history and a mirror of the Tibetan people’s unique identity and traditions. It is the primary medium for expressing the Five Major Sciences—arts, medicine, grammar, epistemology, and Buddhist philosophy—and the Five Minor Sciences—poetry, lexicography, prosody, drama, and astrology. It is also a vast treasury for passing down Tibet’s history, politics, economy, military, society, and geography to future generations. It serves as a vital core for safeguarding social unity, collective rights, and the capacity to self-govern.

Geshemas teaching Tibetan children, compassion in action, Tibetan education, Dolma Ling

Wisdom and compassion. At Dolma Ling, Geshemas, nuns who hold the highest degree in their tradition, teach Tibetan refugee children how to read and write Tibetan during the school holidays. Photos by the Dolma Ling Media Nuns.

According to research by modern historians and linguists, the Tibetan script was created in the 7th century, modelled after the Gupta or Brahmi scripts prevalent in northern India. With a history spanning over 1,300 years, it is recognized as one of the world’s ancient languages with uninterrupted use.

The largest and most complete collections of Buddha’s teachings, Buddhist philosophy, epistemology, and psychology transmitted from India are found in the Tibetan language. Enriched by tens of thousands of volumes of treatises and commentaries, it has become a vital treasury housing crucial components of ancient Indian wisdom.

Studying the Tibetan language helps preserve and promote Tibet’s unique cultural heritage, benefiting all sentient beings. In line with the vision of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, it helps us nurture individuals who can guide others along the path of non-violence and compassion and shoulder responsibility for the greater good of this world.

Nuns at Dolma Ling learn the sacred art of making Tibetan butter sculptures.

Calls to Action

Spread the word about what is happening inside Tibet
Sponsor a Tibetan Buddhist nun in India for $1 a day
Support our Higher Studies Fund to help more nuns become teachers and leaders during this critical time
Purchase Tibetan items made by nuns in our online store such as prayer flags, malas, kataks, incense, and our 2027 Tibetan Nuns Project calendar.

Tibetan Buddhist nun calligraphy photo by Tenzin Sangmo copy 2

A Tibetan Buddhist nun shows her calligraphy. Photo courtesy of Tenzin Sangmo.

Conference on Women’s Empowerment in Tibetan Buddhism

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A two-day “Conference on Women’s Empowerment in Tibetan Buddhism” took place on May 20–21, 2026 in Dharamsala, India. This landmark gathering sought to highlight His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama’s vision and contributions toward strengthening the education, ordination, and recognition of Buddhist women. The photos are by the Dolma Ling Media Nuns.

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The two-day event was convened with three principal objectives: to reflect on His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s commitment to women’s empowerment in Tibetan Buddhism, to review ongoing developments in women’s education and recognition, and to strengthen collaboration among monastic institutions, educational centers, and lay communities.

The conference was jointly organized by the Central Tibetan Administration’s Department of Religion and Culture and the Dalai Lama Trust, with support from the Tibetan Nuns Project and the Tibetan Women’s Association. It was part of the ongoing celebrations of His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s 90th birthday and the Year of Compassion.

Held at Dharamsala’s Library of Tibetan Works and Archives, the conference brought together 86 participants from 13 nunneries in India and Nepal, including 69 Geshemas and 17 nuns representing all schools of Tibetan Buddhism as well as the Yungdrung Bon tradition.

The Tibetan Nuns Project was represented by former Kalon Rinchen Khando Choegyal, our Founding Director and Special Advisor; Youdon Aukatsang, the Director of the Tibetan Nuns Project in India and member of the 17th Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile; and Geshema Delek Wangmo, Academic Principal of Dolma Ling Nunnery and Institute.

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Rinchen Khando Choegyal, TNP’s Founding Director and Special Advisor second from left and Youdon Aukatsang, the Director of the Tibetan Nuns Project in India, far right.

Key discussions focused on the institutionalization of the Geshema degree, the recognition of 21 Tibetan and Indian female Mahasiddhis, and the possibility of establishing Bhikshuni ordination within the Tibetan Mulasarvastivada Vinaya tradition.

The conference also deliberated on the curriculum development in nunneries, institutional support for the Tibetan Nuns Project, the leadership role of Geshemas in society and monastic institutions, and prospects for greater international recognition of Buddhist women.

Womens empowerment conference May 2026 19

Geshema Delek Wangmo, Academic Principal of Dolma Ling Nunnery and Institute, spoke at the conference.

The conference was inaugurated by Kyabje Kundeling Tatsak Jedrung Rinpoche and Sikyong Penpa Tsering attended the closing ceremony. Other attendees included the Department of Religion and Culture Secretary Dhondul Dorjee; Dalai Lama Trust Secretary Jamphel Lhundup; scholar and translator Geshe Thupten Jinpa; Tibetan Women’s Association President Tsering Dolma; Library of Tibetan Works and Archives Director Geshe Lhakdor; Ven. Thupten Yarphel; Additional Secretary of the Department of Education (CTA) Tenzin Pema; and Head of the Women’s Empowerment Desk at the Department of Finance (CTA) Tsering Kyi.

Recognizing His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s Leadership and Vision

The event recognized the lifelong efforts of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama to support gender equality and expand opportunities for women within Tibetan Buddhism. The conference aimed to examine “His Holiness’s vision and concrete contributions toward strengthening the education, ordination, and recognition of Buddhist women.” His Holiness the Dalai Lama is the patron of the Tibetan Nuns Project.

The conference brought together 86 participants from 13 nunneries in India and Nepal, including 69 Geshemas and 17 nuns representing all schools of Tibetan Buddhism as well as the Yungdrung Bon tradition.

“Within the Tibetan Buddhist tradition, His Holiness the Dalai Lama has long been an advocate for the empowerment and equal rights of women, particularly nuns,” said Jamphel Lhundup, Secretary of the Dalai Lama Trust.

“He has given numerous teachings on the importance of equality and has taken significant steps to re-establish the lineage of women’s monastic ordination… Over time, he also reintroduced the historic title of ‘Geshema’, and in 2016, the first Geshema degrees were conferred by him at Drepung Monastery in southern India. Today, there are more than 120 Geshemas, and this recognition underscores the high esteem and respect accorded to Tibetan nuns. All these achievements bear witness to the profound impact of the grace and vision of His Holiness the Dalai Lama,” Jamphel Lhundup said.

Womens empowerment conference May 2026 10

The conference included 69 Geshemas. Ten years ago, in 2016, the first Tibetan Buddhist nuns earned their Geshema degrees. That historic occasion was a dream come true for the 20 pioneering nuns, most of whom were illiterate when they escaped from Tibet. The Geshema degree is the highest level of training in the Gelug tradition and is equivalent to a PhD in Tibetan Buddhist philosophy.

During the closing ceremony, Sikyong Penpa Tsering stressed that it was due to the astute and visionary leadership of His Holiness the Dalai Lama that Tibetan Buddhism has continued to be preserved in exile, including the unprecedented conferment of Geshema degrees, regarded as a landmark reform in Tibetan Buddhism.

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Rinchen Khando Choegyal, the Tibetan Nuns Projects’s Founding Director and Special Advisor, spoke at the conference.

The Tibetan Nuns Project Higher Studies Fund

One of the projects that the Tibetan Nuns Project is working on now is the Higher Studies Fund, a quasi-endowment dedicated to supporting the Geshema degree process as well as post-graduate training in Tantric Studies.

An increasing number of nuns in the Gelug tradition are seeking higher education. They are taking the rigorous four-year Geshema exams in record numbers, and many also wish to pursue post-graduate training in Tantric Buddhism as part of a program launched by the Tibetan Nuns Project in 2017.

The number of nuns taking the four-year Geshema exams has tripled since 2019. The small fund we created in 2021 no longer covers the costs for the growing numbers or rising food and transport. Please support the Higher Studies Fund, a quasi-endowment that will support Tibetan Buddhist nuns who wish to become Geshemas, teachers, and leaders and to preserve their religion, culture, and language.

Unfortunately, the modest Geshema Endowment Fund that the Tibetan Nuns Project established in 2021 can no longer support the growing number of nuns and the rising costs of transportation and food. Our goal is to build up the Higher Studies Fund so that both the Geshema exam process AND the Tantric Studies program are self-sustaining.

Through higher studies, Tibetan Buddhist nuns can become fully qualified teachers of their traditions and help preserve Tibet’s rich religion and culture.

Learn more and donate to Higher Studies here.

The mission of the Tibetan Nuns Project is to educate and empower nuns of the Tibetan Buddhist tradition as teachers and leaders; and to establish, strengthen, and support educational institutions to preserve the Tibetan religion and culture. You can see all our current projects here.

Results Announced for 2025 Geshema Exams

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Record Number of Nuns Take 2025 Geshema Exams

The 2025 Geshema exam results are in!

During the summer, a record number of Tibetan Buddhist nuns took various levels of the four-year exams for the Geshema degree. Of the 161 nuns, 154 passed. This is a 96% pass rate.

Forty-seven nuns passed their fourth and final year of exams and will formally graduate as Geshemas in November.

Rows of Tibetan Buddhist nuns taking Geshema exams in 2025. Photo by the Dolma Ling Media Nuns.

In 2025, nuns took the exams as follows:
1st-year exams: 48 nuns, 44 passed
2nd year: 33 nuns took exams, 32 passed
3rd year: 31 nuns took exams, 31 passed
4th and final year: 49 nuns took exams, 47 passed

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.

Tibetan Buddhist nuns reading messages of support for the 2025 Geshema exams. Thank you to everyone who sent good wishes to the nuns!

The nuns gathered in late June for a final, one-month study period before the start of the exams. The nuns from Kopan Nunnery in Nepal created this charming video about their journey to Dolma Ling and the final days of exam preparation. Can’t see the video? Click here.

About the Geshema Degree

The exams take four years to complete, with one set held each year over two weeks. Candidates are examined on the entirety of their 17-year course of study of the Five Great Canonical Texts. They must achieve a score of at least 75 per cent during their studies to be eligible to sit the exams.

Here’s a video by the Dolma Ling Media Nuns about the 2025 Geshema exams. Can’t see the video? Click here.

The formal graduation ceremony for the 47 new Geshemas will take place in November after the annual inter-nunnery debate in Bodh Gaya. This will bring the total number of Geshemas to 120.

Here’s a list of the Geshema graduations since women were first allowed to take this degree 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 for a second year due to COVID
2022: 10 nuns became Geshemas
2023: 7 nuns graduated
2024: 13 nuns graduated
2025: 47 nuns graduating in November

Thank you to everyone who sent good luck messages to the nuns this year! We gathered 74 messages from around the world and posted them at Dolma Ling for everyone to read before and during the exams.

Here’s a sample message from Scott: “Very inspired by your dedication! May your incredible effort benefit countless beings. Thank you!!” Steve wrote, “Your accomplishment brings great benefit and light to the world, at a time of darkness elsewhere. Bowing with great respect for your vision and perseverance.”

Gratitude to His Holiness the Dalai Lama

The success of the nuns would not be possible without the support and encouragement of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, patron of the Tibetan Nuns Project. As this recent article outlines, His Holiness “encouraged nuns to become advanced degree holders as part of his broader goal to increase gender parity.”

“Biologically there is no difference between the brains of men and women and the Buddha clearly gave equal rights to men and women,” His Holiness the Dalai Lama said in 2013. In 2018, he said, “In the beginning when I spoke about awarding Geshema degrees, some were doubtful. I clearly told them that Buddha had given equal opportunity for both men and women.”

Art from painting contest by Shugsep nuns as part of celebrations of Dalai Lama’s 90th birthday

Long-Term Stability

The costs associated with the annual Geshema exams are covered thanks 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. More sponsors are always needed and you can learn more about sponsoring a nun here.

Preparing food for 2025 Geshema exam candidates

Nuns on kitchen duty sort through lentils to search for any small stones. Hosting the Geshema exams is a big enterprise with over 100 more nuns to feed for at least a 6-week period.

We would like to put more of our core programs on solid ground. By giving to the Long-Term Stability Fund, you will be helping current and future Tibetan Buddhist nuns at a critical time in Tibet’s history.

Every little bit helps! No matter what the future of Tibet holds, you can help these dedicated and courageous women to preserve their culture and spiritual traditions. Thank you!

Information session for the 2025 Geshema exams. One sponsor wrote this message of encouragement: “Your accomplishment brings great benefit and light to the world, at a time of darkness elsewhere. Bowing with great respect for your vision and perseverance.”

Thank you for your support and dedication to the Tibetan Buddhist nuns!

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 Celebrate Dalai Lama’s 89th Birthday

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Each year the Tibetan Buddhist nuns at Dolma Ling celebrate His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s birthday with various activities including prayers and games. Here are wonderful photos by the Dolma Ling Media Nuns.

On July 6, 2024, His Holiness the Dalai Lama turned 89. He spent his birthday in the United States recovering from knee replacement surgery. To reassure Tibetans inside and outside of Tibet about his health, he created a special video message. Can’t see the video? Click here.

In his message he said, “There may be people trying to confuse you about my health, saying that the Dalai Lama has gone to a hospital and is undergoing treatments, and so on, making my condition sound grave. You don’t need to trust such misinformation.” He added, “I am nearly 90 now but I don’t feel unhealthy, except for the slight discomfort in my legs. I would like to thank all my fellow Tibetans in and outside Tibet for your prayers on my birthday.”

His Holiness the Dalai Lama's birthday celebrations

The nuns played games and had cake as part of the birthday celebrations.

Among the festivities was Dolma Ling’s annual flower competition which was held on July 5th. The old debate courtyard at the nunnery fills with beautiful potted flowers placed in front of portraits of His Holiness. Scoring for the competition is done by the teachers.

Tibetan Buddhist nuns laughing at annual flower competition

The annual flower competition to mark His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s birthday is always fun. The nuns spend months preparing and taking care of the flowers.

His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s birthday is a sacred occasion for Tibetans. The nuns pray for his good health and long life and make offerings of khatas (ceremonial white scarves) and burn fragrant juniper branches.

His Holiness the Dalai Lama birthday celebrations 2024

Tibetan Buddhist nuns pray and make offerings including sweet smoke from branches of burning juniper and other fragrant substances as part of the celebrations of His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s 89th birthday.

On July 6th, the US Secretary of State issued this official message:
“The United States extends best wishes to His Holiness the Dalai Lama on the occasion of his 89th birthday. Through his promotion of nonviolence and compassion, as well as his commitment to advancing human rights for all, His Holiness serves as an inspiration for the Tibetan community and many around the world. The United States reaffirms our commitment to support efforts to preserve Tibetans’ distinct linguistic, cultural, and religious heritage, including the ability to freely choose and venerate religious leaders without interference.”

Nuns line up to offer kataks on His Holiness the Dalai Lama's 89th birthday

Nuns line up to offer kataks, ceremonial prayer scarves, to the portrait of His Holiness the Dalai Lama.

At celebrations in Dharamsala, Penpa Tsering, the executive head of the Central Tibetan Administration, announced that 2025 will be the “Year of Compassion” in honour of the Dalai Lama’s 90th birthday.

games to celebration the Dalai Lama's birthday

Fun and games to celebrate His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s birthday.

Bulletin board at Dolma Ling Nunnery and Institute with special birthday messages from the nuns to His Holiness the Dalai Lama.

Bulletin board at Dolma Ling with birthday messages from the nuns to His Holiness the Dalai Lama.

Part of the birthday celebrations included an essay-writing day.

Tibetan Nuns Celebrate the Dalai Lama’s 88th Birthday

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On July 6th, His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s 88th birthday was celebrated by Tibetans worldwide with prayers for his good health and long life.

At Dolma Ling Nunnery and Institute, home to about 250 Tibetan Buddhist nuns, His Holiness’s birthday is always a day of big celebrations. This year the nuns marked the occasion with prayers, offerings, games, and cake. The Dolma Ling Media Nuns captured the fun with this series of photos and a short video.

Dalai Lama's birthday, Dalai Lama, 88th birthday Dalai Lama,

Nuns offering white prayer scarves or kataks to the portrait of His Holiness the Dalai Lama. Photo by the Dolma Ling Media Nuns

The day started early with the nuns, teachers and all the staff seated in the Dolma Ling prayer hall for prayers, tsok, and offerings of Tibetan prayer scarves to His Holiness the Dalai Lama whose portrait sits at the front.

tsampa offering, throwing tsampa, His Holiness the Dalai Lama's birthday, Dolma Ling Nunnery

A circle of nuns from Dolma Ling Nunnery prepare to throw tsampa, roasted barley flour, in the air as an offering for His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s birthday. Photo by the Dolma Ling Media Nuns

On July 6th, His Holiness the Dalai Lama attended birthday celebrations at the main temple in Dharamsala. He said, “Today, you are celebrating my 88th birthday, but when I look in the mirror, I feel I look as if I’m still in my 50s. My face doesn’t look old, it isn’t wrinkled with age. What’s more I still have all my teeth so there’s nothing I can’t eat or chew.

“I was born in Tibet and I bear this name Dalai Lama, but in addition to working for the cause of Tibet, I’ve been working for the welfare of all sentient beings. I’ve done whatever I could without losing hope or allowing my determination to flag.”

Tibetan Buddhist nuns, birthday cake for Dalai Lama,

Part of this year’s festivities included a birthday cake in honor of His Holiness the Dalai Lama. Photo by the Dolma Ling Media Nuns

His Holiness the Dalai Lama also said, “I believe there is knowledge within Tibetan culture and religion that can benefit the world at large. However, I also respect all other religious traditions because they encourage their followers to cultivate love and compassion.”

“According to indications in my own dreams and other predictions, I expect to live to be more than 100 years old. I’ve served others until now and I’m determined to continue to do so. Please pray for my long life on that basis.”

Happy birthday messages from Tibetan nuns to the Dalai Lama

The bulletin board at Dolma Ling Nunnery displays birthday wishes and poems from the nuns to His Holiness the Dalai Lama.

Everyone enjoyed playing games such as a relay race and the bursting of a balloon tied to another person’s ankle. The nuns even played a game of basketball in the courtyard.

Tibetan Nuns Celebrate the Dalai Lama's 88th Birthday

There was lots of laughter as the nuns tried to grab pears with their mouths. Photo by the Dolma Ling Media Nuns

His Holiness the Dalai Lama is the Patron of the Tibetan Nuns Project. He has always been very supportive of nuns’ education and opening up opportunities for higher degrees. The first conferment of Geshema degrees to Tibetan Buddhist nuns in 2016 fulfilled a longstanding aspiration of His Holiness.

Tibetan Buddhist nuns celebrate Dalai Lama's birthday, Dolma Ling Nunnery

The courtyard of Dolma Ling Nunnery was filled with laughter as nuns watched the games and festivities marking His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s 88th birthday on July 6th. Photo by the Dolma Ling Media Nuns

Shortly after his birthday, His Holiness the Dalai Lama travelled to Ladakh where he will give teachings from July 21-23 on Gyalsey Thokme Sangpo’s 37 Practices of a Bodhisattva.

The nuns played a variety of games to celebrate the occasion, including this water bucket challenge. Photo by the Dolma Ling Media Nuns

The Dolma Ling Media Nuns also created this little video. Can’t see it? Click here.

At this time of year, Dolma Ling Nunnery holds an annual flower competition. The old debate courtyard at the nunnery fills with beautiful potted flowers placed in front of portraits of His Holiness. Scoring for the competition is done by the teachers.

The annual flower contest at Dolma Ling Nunnery. Photo by the Dolma Ling Media Nuns.

flower contest at Dolma Ling Nunnery 2023

The nuns make posters, cards and banners, and grow flowers in celebration of His Holiness the Dalai Lama birthday. During the annual flower contest, the old debate courtyard is full of beautiful potted plants.

Thank you so much for supporting the nuns through the Tibetan Nuns Project!

Geshemas Have Audience With His Holiness the Dalai Lama

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On May 17, 2023 Geshemas had a special audience with His Holiness the Dalai Lama.

The Geshemas from Dolma Ling Nunnery and Institute, Geden Choeling Nunnery, and Jangchub Choeling Nunnery met His Holiness the Dalai Lama at his residence in Dharamsala.

Here is the video courtesy of Office of His Holiness the Dalai Lama.
Can’t see the video? Click here.

His Holiness spoke in Tibetan. Here’s a translation from courtesy of Dechen Tsering, a Tibetan Nuns Project board member.

“Now you all must keep studying the Buddhist script well. In order to achieve Gelongma (female Gelong) one must usually have the linage of Gelongma. Nevertheless, Buddha has granted access to his teachings to all – it is not limited to just male monks – so take the opportunity to study the scriptures well and achieve Geshema. Study the scriptures hard and benefit the world [with your knowledge and insight]. There are many people in parts of the world who previously had no idea of Buddhism who are now showing a lot of interest in the Buddha’s teachings. Therefore, by becoming Geshemas, it would be most beneficial if you now become teachers. So, do your best! Stay with peace of mind.”

“Remember that we Tibetans originally descend from the linage of the Avalokiteshvara so visualize that on the top of your head sits the Avalokiteshvara and move through the world to be kind-hearted and think only of benefiting others – never hurting others. If you do that then the blessings of Avalokiteshvara will follow you for lifetime after lifetime. I’m like the messenger of Avalokiteshvara. So, we from the people of the land of snow mountains (Tibet) are dedicated followers of Avalokiteshvara and have a special relationship with Avalokiteshvara. So, develop the Buddha’s compassion heart and do your best to benefit others and make some contribution for the benefit of others. These days there are many people showing interest in Buddhism – so if you do your best to help them. It will be very beneficial. So do your best!”

Also attending the event were Nangsa Chodon, Director of the Tibetan Nuns Project in India and Tsering Diki, Assistant Director.

The Tibetan Nuns Project is deeply grateful to our supporters for helping to educate and empower nuns of the Tibetan Buddhist tradition as teachers and leaders.

About the Geshema Degree

The Geshema degree is the highest level of training in the Gelugpa tradition and is equivalent to a PhD in Tibetan Buddhism.

The degree was only formally opened to women in 2012. The Geshema degree is the same as a Geshe degree but is called a Geshema degree because it is awarded to women.

Fifty-three nuns hold the Geshema degree as of November 2022. The Geshemas are paving the way for other nuns to follow in their footsteps. This degree makes them eligible to assume various leadership roles in their monastic and lay communities reserved for degree holders and hence previously not open to women.

The 10 Geshema graduates from 2022. As of the start of 2023, there are 53 nuns who hold the Geshema degree.

Some Facts About the Geshema Degree

The Geshema degree is comparable to a doctorate in Tibetan Buddhist philosophy.
It is the highest level of training in the Gelugpa school of Tibetan Buddhism.
The Geshema degree is the same as the Geshe degree for monks. The ending “ma” marks it as referring to a woman.
Until recently, this highest degree could only be earned by monks.
The historic decision to confer the Geshema degree to Tibetan Buddhist nuns was announced in 2012 by the Department of Religion and Culture of the Tibetan Administration, following a meeting of representatives from six major nunneries, Institute of Buddhist Dialectics, and the Tibetan Nuns Project.
Candidates for the Geshema degree are examined on the entirety of their 17-year course of study of the Five Great Canonical Texts.
To qualify to begin the Geshema process, nuns must score 75% or above in their studies to be eligible to sit for the Geshema exams.
On December 22, 2016, His Holiness the Dalai Lama awarded 20 Tibetan Buddhist nuns with Geshema degrees at a special graduation ceremony held at Drepung Monastery in Mundgod, South India.
In 2011, a German nun, Kelsang Wangmo, who spent 21 years training in India, became the first woman to receive the Geshe degree. This was before the Geshema degree process was approved in 2012.

Tibetan Buddhist Holidays in 2022

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Here is a list of some of the major Tibetan Buddhist holidays in 2022, as well as some other important dates in the Tibetan calendar.

Each year, the Tibetan Nuns Project publishes a calendar with the Tibetan Buddhist holidays and other important ritual dates, plus the phases of the moon, inspirational quotes, and major US and Canadian holidays. This beautiful 2022 calendar is available from our online store, along with prayer flags, incense, malas and much more. By purchasing the calendar, you help provide education, food, shelter, and health care for over 900 Tibetan Buddhist nuns living in northern India. Thank you!

March 3, 2022: Losar, Tibetan New Year

Tibetan Buddhist nuns, Tibetan butter sculpture, Losar, Tibetan New Year

Tibetan Buddhist nuns make butter sculptures for Losar Tibetan New Year 2020. Photo by the Dolma Ling Nuns’ Media Team.

Losar, the Tibetan New Year, is a very special time of year. In 2022, Tibetan New Year or Losar falls on March 3rd and is the start of year of the Water Tiger, 2149. In the traditional Tibetan calendar, each year is associated with an animal, an element, and a number. The year of the Water Tiger ends on February 20, 2023 and the year of the Water Hare, 2150, begins the following day.

Tibetan Buddhist nun, prayer flags, hanging prayer flags

It is customary to hang new prayer flags and to burn incense at Tibetan New Year. Photo courtesy of Olivier Adam

The animals in the Tibetan calendar are somewhat like those in the Chinese zodiac and are in the following order: Mouse, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, 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, the nuns, like all Tibetans, say goodbye to the old year and let go of all its negative or bad aspects. Part of this involves cleaning one’s home or room from top to bottom.

Nuns at Dolma Ling making khapse biscuits for Losar. These deep-fried Tibetan cookies in different shapes and sizes are a staple of Tibetan New Year’s celebrations everywhere. Photo by the Dolma Ling Media Nuns, 2020.

After that, the Losar or “new year” is welcomed with prayers and by inviting all good, auspicious things into our homes and our lives. Special food is prepared such as khapse and a noodle soup called guthuk. See this recipe for vegetarian guthuk. Tibetans hang new prayer flags and also burn incense and juniper bows to welcome the new year.

March 10 and March 12: Tibetan Uprising Day

March 10th, Dharamsala, March 10th, March 10th demonstration, Tibetan nun, Tibetan Nuns Project, Tibetan Uprising Day

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. This year marks the 63rd anniversary of the Tibetan National Uprising. Around the world, 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.

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.

March 12th, 2022 marks the 63rd anniversary of the Tibetan Women’s Uprising. Following the National Uprising Day on March 10th, 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.

June 14, 2022: Saga Dawa Düchen

The most important month in the Tibetan calendar is Saga Dawa, the 4th lunar month which in 2022 runs from May 31st to June 29th. The 15th day of this lunar month, the full moon day is called Saga Dawa Düchen. Düchen means “great occasion” and this day is the single most holy day of the year for Tibetan Buddhists. In 2022, Saga Dawa Düchen falls on June 14th.

Tibetan Buddhist nuns, Saga Dawa, reading words of the Buddha

Every year, during the month of Saga Dawa, over a period of 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. Over the past two years, due to the coronavirus pandemic, the nuns had to observe physical distancing while reciting. Photo courtesy of the Nuns’ Media Team.

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. Tibetan Buddhists make extra efforts to practice more generosity, virtue, and compassion to accumulate greater merit. Tibetans believe that during this month, the merits of one’s actions are multiplied. On the 15th day of the month, the merits of one’s 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 hoy month of Saga Dawa in 2021. Photo by the Dolma Ling Media Nuns

Over the past two years, due to the coronavirus pandemic, the nuns had to adapt their regular celebrations and rituals for Saga Dawa.

July 13, 2022: Universal Prayer Day

As on other auspicious occasions, such as Tibetan New Year and His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s birthday, nuns burn fragrant juniper boughs. Photo by the Dolma Ling Nuns’ Media Team

Universal Prayer Day or Dzam Ling Chi Sang falls on the 15th day of the 5th month of the Tibetan Lunar calendar, so in June or July. It is a time for spiritual cleansing. Tibetans hang prayer flags and burn juniper twigs.

July 6: His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s Birthday

Around the world, His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s birthday on July 6th will be celebrated with happiness and prayers for his good health and long life. This year, His Holiness the Dalai Lama turns 87. The nuns will pray and make special offerings of tsok, khataks (prayer scarves), and sangsol (incense offering) to His Holiness. It’s a day of celebration with special food, such as Tibetan momos, the steamed savory dumplings that are much loved by Tibetans around the world and that are often made on Tibetan Buddhist holidays.

August 1, 2022: 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” (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 gave the teaching of the Four Noble Truths in Sarnath, shortly after attaining enlightenment in Bodhgaya. 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 15, 2022: Buddha’s Descent from Heaven

Tibetan Buddhist nuns, Tibetan Buddhist holidays, praying, Olivier Adam, Tibetan Buddhism

Tibetan Buddhist nuns 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 following his visit there to teach his deceased mother. 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 prayer to gain merit and to mark this special occasion.

February 21, 2023: Losar (Tibetan New Year)

butter sculptures, Losar, Tibetan Buddhist holidays, Tibetan New Year, offerings, Tibetan Nuns Project

Butter sculptures and offerings made by the Tibetan nuns for Losar, Tibetan New Year.

Losar in 2023 falls on February 21st and will be the Year of the Water Hare, 2150 according to the Tibetan calendar.

Tibetan Buddhist Holidays in 2022 and the Tibetan Nuns Project Calendar

It is still possible to order copies of our 2022 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 includes the dates of the Tibetan lunar calendar, .important Tibetan holidays, and special ritual days for Tibetan Buddhist practices. The cost is $12 plus shipping and your purchase helps support over 900 Tibetan Buddhist nuns and 7 nunneries in India.