Can anyone practice Kadampa Buddhism?
Yes. Kadampa Buddhism is open and welcoming to everyone, regardless of background or experience. Anyone can attend classes, courses, and events at NKT centers, whether they are just curious about meditation or wish to explore Buddhism more deeply.
NKT centers offer beginner-friendly programs such as drop-in classes and introductory courses that are easy to follow and relevant to modern life. There are no commitments required–people are free to attend as much or as little as they wish.
For those who can’t attend in person, many centers also offer online classes and resources, making the teachings widely accessible.
In all ways, NKT provides a supportive and inclusive environment for anyone interested in learning meditation and exploring the Buddhist path.
Are there ordained monks and nuns in the New Kadampa Tradition?
Yes. The New Kadampa Tradition (NKT) has a thriving ordained community of over 800 monks and nuns worldwide.
Ordained Kadampa practitioners take ten lifelong vows, which encapsulate the essence of the full ordination as taught in Buddha’s Vinaya teachings. These vows originate from the Perfection of Wisdom Sutra and its Lamrim commentary, and are received through a special ritual guided by a qualified Preceptor.
This form of ordination is both meaningful and sustainable in modern society. It supports a deep spiritual life while being fully compatible with the contemporary world. In the NKT, monks and nuns have equal status and equal opportunities to study, practice, and teach.
Why are there so many New Kadampa Tradition Centres around the world?
The New Kadampa Tradition (NKT) is organized as an international network of meditation and study centers to make Buddha’s teachings accessible to people everywhere. This enables individuals from all walks of life to find local opportunities to learn meditation, study Dharma, and connect with a supportive spiritual community.
By establishing centers in many countries and providing teachings in multiple languages, the NKT helps preserve and share the pure lineage of Buddha’s teachings, making them available now and for future generations.
Are all the centres in the New Kadampa Tradition the same?
There are many centers around the world in the New Kadampa Tradition (NKT), but each one is unique.
All NKT centers follow the same core structure — offering Buddha’s teachings through the three study programs (General Program, Foundation Program, and Teacher Training Program) and operating in accordance with the Internal Rules of the NKT. This shared foundation keeps the tradition unified and consistent.
At the same time, each center is independently registered and shaped by the culture and needs of its local community, and the rules of its country. Centers vary in size and setting—including Kadampa Buddhist Centers, Kadampa Meditation Centers, modern city center commercial spaces, International retreat centers, and Kadampa World Peace Temples. These centers also have branches in other areas offering weekly classes to the local people of those areas.
Many centers include a bookshop, café, or social area. Many centers have a community of residents and some also offer overnight accommodation for retreats or special events.
Whether large or small, every center aims to be a peaceful and welcoming space where people can learn to meditate, find inspiration in Buddha’s wisdom, connect with others on a similar path and become of benefit to others.
Who can attend New Kadampa Tradition classes?
Everyone is welcome.
New Kadampa Tradition (NKT) classes are open to people of all backgrounds, beliefs, and levels of experience. Whether you’re simply curious about meditation, looking for practical ways to improve your life, or interested in exploring Buddhist teachings more deeply, you’ll find something meaningful.
Our approach is inclusive and accessible, with classes offered at different levels so anyone can join in and benefit—no prior knowledge or commitment needed. Just come as you are.
Do you need to be Buddhist to attend New Kadampa Tradition classes?
No, you don’t need to be Buddhist to attend New Kadampa Tradition (NKT) classes.
Everyone is welcome—whether you’re just curious about meditation, looking for practical tools to reduce stress and improve your mind, or interested in learning more about Buddhism.
New Kadampa Tradition classes are designed to be accessible and relevant for people of all backgrounds and beliefs and are presented in a clear, modern way that fits with contemporary society. You can come along, listen, meditate, and take away whatever feels helpful to you—no commitment or prior knowledge is needed. You are encouraged to practice at your own pace and to gain your own experience of the teachings.
What is a typical New Kadampa class like?
A typical New Kadampa Tradition (NKT) meditation class is welcoming and suitable for both beginners and those with some meditation experience. Most participants meditate sitting on chairs, with the option to sit cross-legged on the floor if preferred.
Sessions usually begin with preparatory practices, such as setting a positive intention. This often includes reciting the Liberating Prayer, especially in General Program classes, followed by a simple guided meditation to help let go of distractions and calm the mind.
Most classes include a short Dharma talk explaining the benefits of meditation and how to apply Buddha’s teachings practically in daily life. The session often ends with a second meditation focused on the class topic, giving time to contemplate it deeply, reach a conclusion and hold this for a period of time in silent meditation.
After the classes there is generally time for refreshments, as well as discussion with other participants or the teacher of the class.
