Projects
In January 1991, when sixty-six nuns appeared overnight camped out on the streets of Dharamsala, the Tibetan Nuns Project was more of an idea than a reality.
Now, more than a decade later, the Project has established two nunneries, Shugsep and Dolma Ling and assists four other nunneries. The sponsorship program has grown to support over 650 nuns.
But much remains to be funded:
- Three new projects at Dolma Ling.
- Shugsep Nunnery's new facility is nearing completion. Some further funds may be required for finishing touches
- Geden Choeling in Dharamsala hopes to begin the construction of more housing soon.
- Tilokpur, a Kagyu nunnery outside of Dharamsala, has completed much of its new "shedra"--institute of higher studies. Funds are still needed for the final stages.
- Sakya Nuns' Institute situated 19km from Dehra Dun needs a vehicle for transportation ofthe nuns. Cost: U.S.$8,800.
- Sherab Choeling Nunnery in Lahaul-Spiti is seeking to build a new building to house classrooms and a library.
- Sponsors are needed for new arrivals.
Nuns Not in Nunneries.
Some nuns prefer to live on their own. They are not attached to a specific nunnery, and are interested in meditative retreat rather than in learning higher Buddhist philosophy. Most are scattered about the mountain above Dharamsala. Some live in Dehra Dun, Manali, and Rewalsar.
Read the story of a nun living on retreat.