Rangjung Yeshe Institute
Rangjung Yeshe Institute, located in Kathmandu Nepal, is a center for higher learning specializing in Buddhist Studies and Language immersion programs
This page is for current, previous, and prospective students of the Rangjung Yeshe Institute in Boudha, Kathmandu and for our online learning students, alumni, supporters and friends worldwide.
Join us on Thursday, 25th July for” Q&A session with Ani Choying Drolma”
Ani Choying Drolma, known worldwide for her performances of Buddhist chants, will speak about the value of Buddhist education for women, and share her experience as a Buddhist nun and as a practitioner. This guest lecture will be open for questions from RYl students and the audience.
𝐒𝐂𝐇𝐄𝐃𝐔𝐋𝐄:
Thursday, 25th July,2024
5:00 pm NPT (On-Campus & Online)
Classroom 104
𝐌𝐄𝐄𝐓𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐈𝐃:
Zoom ID: 431 318 1117
Click the link for more information: https://ryi.org/news/public-lecture-qa-session-with-ani-choying-drolma
On Saturday, July 20, 50 summer program students and staff visited Namo Buddha. The Namo Buddha stupa is one of the three most sacred stupas in Nepal, which - according to Mahayana tradition - holds the remains of one of Buddha Shakyamuni's past lives as Prince Great Courage. He perfected the paramita of generosity by offering his body to a starving tigress and her cubs. Namo Buddha is also one of the few places in Nepal where there is textual evidence of Buddha Shakyamuni himself having visited. Our students visited Thrangu Rinpoche's monastery, as well as the site where the bodhisattva Great Courage gave his body, and the stupa.
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The Sanskrit word of the week is अभिज्ञा or abhijñā which means “higher knowledge”
Discover an array of enriching courses designed to deepen your understanding and practice. Join our fall program this year!
Fall programs:
Undergraduate:
- Bachelor of Arts in Buddhist Studies with Himalayan Language
- Non-Credit Study
- Visiting Student Program
Graduate Programs:
- Master of Arts, Preparatory Program
- Master of Arts, Buddhist Studies
- Master of Arts, Translation, Textual Interpretation, and Philology
To learn more about this amazing opportunity click the link linktr.ee/rangjungyesheinstitute
Rangjung Yeshe Institute hosts esteemed scholars and experts from diverse fields, including Buddhist studies and anthropology, who share their research with our students and the public both on campus and online each semester. If you missed their talks, you can watch the recordings on our YouTube channel and listen on SoundCloud.
Click the link to find the rest of our social media accounts.
Link: linktr.ee/rangjungyesheinstitute
"The moment that we are exactly in will not be the same after that moment. A very famous analogy of Buddha, we cannot touch the same river. Similarly, the moment in our life passes every time either noticeably or unnoticeably. This aspect of impermanence is also very important principle in Buddhism. Everything in this world is impermanent and if one gets attached to it, then it causes suffering to us."
To read Pema’s full article, " Contemplative Photography ", click the link below.
𝐋𝐈𝐍𝐊: https://studentblog.ryi.org/2024/07/03/contemplative-photography-2/
Every Summer program, interested students go on a weekend trip during their reading week holidays. Student Services has been coordinating this trip along with Responsible Treks organizing the logistics and facilitation for many years.
Here is what one of the participants and RYI summer student, Tanja Meding has to say about the trip:
Our time at Nagarkot Farmhouse was a much-needed break after completing the mid-term exams and assignments. We arrived in the rain, but as soon as we got settled into our rooms, the rain stopped, for the next two days luck was on our side and our umbrellas stayed in our bags.
Our guides Gyaljan and Rajiv took excellent care of us and prepared two beautiful hikes. The Farmhouse was a fitting location that made us all feel very welcome. The food was delicious, the tea was always hot, and the popcorn was a great snack after our hikes. On the way back to Boudha, a small group of us stopped in Bhaktapur and topped off the weekend by taking in the rich history and beauty of the city.
Overall, this weekend was filled with many memorable images, impressions, and interactions.
Photo credits: Tennor from Hong Kong.
The Tibetan word of the week is དད་པ་ or dépa which means “Faith”
Join our fall program this year!
Undergraduate:
- Bachelor of Arts in Buddhist Studies with Himalayan Language
- Non-Credit Study
- Visiting Student Program
Graduate Programs:
- Master of Arts, Preparatory Program
- Master of Arts, Buddhist Studies
- Master of Arts, Translation, Textual Interpretation, and Philology
To learn more about this amazing opportunity click the link: linktr.ee/rangjungyesheinstitute
"To try to interpret when the topic that is given is new to you, is like running after a train that is already speeding up. But on the other hand, to interpret a topic that one has at least a basic understanding of is like sitting relaxed on the train and being able to really focus on what is being said. Because however well you may know a topic there is always more to know and other ways to explain it. So, the prior understanding you may have should only be like a base that makes you relax. You have to be careful that it does not block you from really listening to what is being taught."
To read Johanna’s full article, "Some thoughts about interpretation", click the link below.
𝐋𝐈𝐍𝐊: https://studentblog.ryi.org/2024/06/28/some-thoughts-about-interpretation/
On June 26th, RYI summer students experienced a vibrant cultural event as part of their language studies through which they immerse themselves in diverse Tibetan traditions and customs. They took part in activities such as traditional dance performances, chanting, and tasting Tibetan foods. These immersive experiences provided valuable insights into the Tibetan cultural tradition.
Join us on Wednesday, 17th July for “The Roots of eco Buddhism” by Andy Hallahan.
The first half of this lecture will provide a brief overview of current (mis)conceptions of ecology and environmentalism in early Buddhist thought, focusing on Abhidharma and East Asian Mahayana. The second half of the lecture will outline the influence of pre-Buddhist spirit reverence as it is related to contemporary Eco Buddhism, focusing on Himalayan Buddhist perceptions of the intersection between elemental balance, and internal and external well-being.
𝐒𝐂𝐇𝐄𝐃𝐔𝐋𝐄:
Wednesday, 17th July,2024
5:30 pm NPT (On-Campus & Online)
Classroom 103
𝐌𝐄𝐄𝐓𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐈𝐃:
Zoom ID: 431 318 1117
“One of the most rewarding aspects of this experience is the diversity among my classmates. Collaborating with such talented and motivated peers has not only enriched my studies but also made this academic journey immensely enjoyable.”
To read more about Maite’s experience studying MA-TTIP at RYI click the link below
LINK: https://ryi.org/maite-castellano-master-of-arts-in-translation-textual-interpretation-and-philology
" When the mind is tired, dull, and unpliable, to persist blindly does not amount to genuine diligence since you cannot take delight in the process. Instead, train yourself to take a break. When you come back with a clear understanding of your limitations and motivation, you will be well-prepared to accomplish your goal, religious or not. "
To read Keruo’s full article, " Take a Break, Please. ", click the link below.
𝐋𝐈𝐍𝐊: https://studentblog.ryi.org/2024/06/26/take-a-break-please/
The Sanskrit word of the week is कर्मविपाक or karmavipāka which means “the ripening of karma”.
Discover an array of enriching courses designed to deepen your understanding and practice. Click the link in our bio to see what’s waiting for you.
Join the RYI family this Fall!
On Saturday, June 29, some of the Summer students and staff participated in the Swayambhu field trip organized by RYI Student Services. The trip was led by academic guide Austin Simoes-Gomes, a research affiliate at RYI and a Ph.D. candidate in the Department for the Study of Religion at the University of Toronto.
Join us on Wednesday, 3rd July for “Medicine and Buddha Dharma - Intersections from the Pali, Sanskrit, and Tibetan Traditions” by Dr. Eric Rosenbush. Medical science has been intertwined with Buddhism since earliest times. This talk will introduce connections between Buddhist and medical practice in South Asia from references in early Pali literature to classical Ayurveda and the Sanskrit Buddhist tradition. We will then introduce the Sowa Rigpa tradition in Tibet and Himalayan areas with its unique incorporation of Vajrayana elements.
𝐒𝐂𝐇𝐄𝐃𝐔𝐋𝐄:
Wednesday, 3rd July,2024
5:30 pm NPT (On-Campus & Online)
Classroom 103
𝐌𝐄𝐄𝐓𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐈𝐃:
Zoom ID: 431 318 1117
Seize the opportunity and join us this Fall at RYI! ✨
Explore our exciting Fall 2024 course offerings—click the link below to learn more. Don't wait, apply now!
LINK: https://ryi.org/programs/fall-2024-courses
" Sometimes I ask myself: After all these sutric, ta***ic, traditional and academic studies, after all these struggling and difficulties, do you even really understand the so-called simplest teachings, the Truth of Suffering for instance? Do you really have a sincere wish to be liberated? Do you really have renunciation, let along bodhicitta, devotion and pure perception? "
To read Luoxi's full article, " The Magical Simplicity", click the link below.
𝐋𝐈𝐍𝐊: https://studentblog.ryi.org/2024/06/12/the-magical-simplicity/
The Tibetan word of the week is བསོད་ནམས་ or sönam which means “Merit”
Join our fall program this year!
Fall programs:
Undergraduate:
- Bachelor of Arts in Buddhist Studies with Himalayan Language
- Non-Credit Study
- Visiting Student Program
Graduate Programs:
- Master of Arts, Preparatory Program
- Master of Arts, Buddhist Studies
- Master of Arts, Translation, Textual Interpretation, and Philology
To learn more about this amazing opportunity click the link to view our Fall24 course offerings.
LINK: https://ryi.org/programs/fall-2024-courses
What are students saying?
Join the RYI family this fall!
Fall24 program courses are:
1. Bachelor of Arts in Buddhist Studies with Himalayan Language
2. Master of Arts, Buddhist Studies
3. Master of Arts, Translation, Textual Interpretation, and Philology
4. Non-Credit Study
5. Master of Arts, Preparatory Program
6. Visiting Student Program
Click the link for more information: linktr.ee/rangjungyesheinstitute
On Saturday, June 15, 2024, a group of Yogic Sciences students from Kathmandu University, Dhulikhel visited the KU Centre for Buddhist Studies at Rangjung Yeshe Institute. They attended the Dharma teaching of Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche. The students had the chance to explain their program to RYI Principal, Dr. Thomas Doctor, and Director of Studies, Dr. Julia Stenzel, after the teachings. They were accompanied by program advisor Dr. Naresh Rimal, and they extended an official invitation to the International Day of Yoga that will be celebrated on the Dhulikhel campus on June 21, 2024.
To read more click the link: https://ryi.org/news/yogic-sciences-students-visit
The Summer Intensive Program 2024 has begun! This year, we welcomed over 100 students from more than 20 countries. The three-day orientation included introductory talks, a history of RYI and the monastery, the first public lecture by Vanessa Sasson, a welcome reception, and concluded with a teaching by our founder, Chokyi Nyima Rinpoche.
Join us this fall and discover the beauty of learning through our Language Studies course!
𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐦𝐬:
1. Bachelor of Arts in Buddhist Studies with Himalayan Language
2. Non-Credit Study
3. Visiting Student Program
𝐂𝐥𝐢𝐜𝐤 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐤 𝐭𝐨 𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐧 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞: linktr.ee/rangjungyesheinstitute
“Buddhism is finally getting the attention and interest it deserves, as scientists and the modern world are eventually getting to know about the significant potential benefits of Buddhist practices. However, just as science cannot be reduced to a certain method and technology, Buddhism too has numerous aspects to it that it can be difficult to categorize it as either as religion, philosophy or contemplative method.”
To read Rangrig's full article, " Buddhism and Science", click the link below.
𝐋𝐈𝐍𝐊: https://studentblog.ryi.org/2024/06/07/buddhism-and-science/
RYI students come from all over the world. The countries in blue on the map show where our students are from. Join us this fall and be part of the RYI family!
Fall programs:
Undergraduate:
1. Bachelor of Arts in Buddhist Studies with Himalayan Language
2. Non-Credit Study
3. Visiting Student Program
Graduate Programs:
1. Master of Arts, Preparatory Program
2. Master of Arts, Buddhist Studies
3. Master of Arts, Translation, Textual Interpretation, and Philology
For more information click the link linktr.ee/rangjungyesheinstitute
Join us this fall and delve deep in our textual studies courses !
𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐦𝐬:
1. Bachelor of Arts in Buddhist Studies with Himalayan Language
2. Non-Credit Study
3. Visiting Student Program
Click the link for more information:linktr.ee/rangjungyesheinstitute
Join us this Thursday, 13th June for “Telling the Story of the First Buddhist Women” by Vanessa R. Sasson. In this lecture, stories associated with the first Buddhist women, as they walked together through the forest to ask the Buddha for ordination. We will hear about Patachara and Yasodhara, and the Buddhaʼs stepmother Mahapajapati, among many others.
𝐒𝐂𝐇𝐄𝐃𝐔𝐋𝐄:
Thursday, 13th June 2024
5:30 pm NPT (On-Campus & Online)
Classroom 103
𝐌𝐄𝐄𝐓𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐈𝐃:
Zoom ID: 431 318 1117
The Summer Intensive Program 2024 is starting in a week, and we are excited to welcome all our students. Explore our field trips, public lectures, and other fun events happening over the next eight weeks.
For more information, click the link linktr.ee/rangjungyesheinstitute
Explore our Buddhist Studies Courses!
Join us this fall at RYI and deepen your understanding of Buddhist teachings and practices.
𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐦𝐬:
1. Bachelor of Arts in Buddhist Studies with Himalayan Language
2. Non-Credit Study
3. Visiting Student Program
Click the link to learn more: linktr.ee/rangjungyesheinstitute
“If I do gather up the courage and try to talk to someone in Tibetan, I often won’t understand their answer because the Tibetan dialect these monks speak here in India is different to the dialect we learn in Nepal, or the monks will make fun of my pronunciation (yes, really). But slowly I’m learning that tse po dug is the same as tsa po dug, de mo the same as de po yin pä and shog pa ma deleg is a valid answer to shog pa deleg. So, I will not give up, and keep on trying my best 😊”
To read Theresa's full article, "Practicing Tibetan out in the World", click the link below.
𝐋𝐈𝐍𝐊: https://studentblog.ryi.org/2024/05/31/practicing-tibetan-out-in-the-world/
The Sanskrit word of the week is शाश्वत or śāśvata, which means “Eternal”.
𝐃𝐨 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐰𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐧 𝐒𝐚𝐧𝐬𝐤𝐫𝐢𝐭?
𝐉𝐨𝐢𝐧 𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐒𝐮𝐦𝐦𝐞𝐫 𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐦 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐲𝐞𝐚𝐫!
𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐦 𝐫𝐮𝐧𝐬 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐉𝐮𝐧𝐞 𝟏𝟐 – 𝐀𝐮𝐠𝐮𝐬𝐭 𝟖, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟒.
Courses include:
- Buddhist Studies
- Classical Tibetan
- Colloquial Tibetan
- Sanskrit
- Nepali.
To learn more about this amazing opportunity visit our Linktree
LINK: linktr.ee/rangjungyesheinstitute.
Don't miss out on this opportunity!
Our Story
In 1974, at the behest of His Holiness the 16th Gyalwa Karmapa, Tulku Urgyen Rinpoche began construction of Ka-Nying Shedrub Ling monastery near the Great Stupa of Boudhanath in the Kathmandu valley. In 1976, Urgyen Tulku’s son, Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche, was enthroned as abbot. As the monastery became more established, the monks began studying Buddhist philosophical texts, and several Westerners who understood Tibetan began studying with them. As interest grew, they asked Rinpoche to create a formal program for foreign students to study Buddhist philosophy and Tibetan language.
This request, along with the Rangjung Yeshe seminars that Rinpoche had been offering every fall since 1981, then became the seeds for the Rangjung Yeshe Institute, which Rinpoche formally established as a four-month study program in 1997. In 2001, RYI partnered with Kathmandu University to form the Centre for Buddhist Studies, which now offers classes year-round and fully accredited Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral degrees in Buddhist Studies and Himalayan languages, as well as certificates in oral translation. Since then, RYI has welcomed students from around the world to study a combination of Western academics and traditional Tibetan Buddhist scholasticism in a unique and immersive environment.
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Opening Hours
Monday | 08:00 - 16:00 |
Tuesday | 08:00 - 16:00 |
Wednesday | 08:00 - 16:00 |
Thursday | 08:00 - 16:00 |
Friday | 08:00 - 16:00 |