It is highly recommended to start with an Introduction to Buddhism course. These courses are designed to give you a good basic understanding of the Buddhist Philosophy as well as the large variety of meditations practiced in this tradition. This lays the foundation, allowing you to have a first hand experience of buddhist teachings, the feel of a retreat environment, daily practice, as well as practical advice on how to integrate the philosophy and meditation practices into your daily life. After completing an Introduction course you should be in a much better position to plan further study and retreats, and will be in a much better position to judge what courses/retreats are suitable/appropriate for your level in order to get the most benefit (and not jump into the deep end too quickly).

If you have completed an Introduction to Buddhism course, then have a look at our Intermediate Level courses/retreats or if you simply wish to keep a daily practice going and prefer to meditate in a group then consider attending some of our Drop-In Sessions (which are also open to those who haven't completed an Introduction course). Also keep an eye on our Calendar of Events for all the retreats/courses/special events happening at Tushita.

There are also many Dharma activities going on in the area around Tushita. We have lots of recommendations in our links section under Other Buddhist Study Opportunities Nearby. In particular there are regular teachings being given at the Library of Tibetan Works and Archives, the Institute of Buddhist Dialectics, and His Holiness the Dalai Lama gives teachings at his temple several times a year. His Holiness' teachings (despite being listed on our calendar) do not take place at Tushita, nor do we organise or take bookings for them.

Please note that it is not possible to stay at Tushita unless you are attending one of our residential courses or are on a strict Personal Retreat (i.e. staying before, after or inbetween courses). There are a huge number of guesthouses in McLeod Ganj, Dharamkot and Bhagsu to suit any budget, where you can stay for as long as you wish and use as a base to attend Drop-In Sessions or non-residential teachings here at Tushita and teachings elsewhere (the Tibetan Library, IBD, His Holiness the Dalai Lama's teachings, etc.). Click here for more information about accommodation in McLeod Ganj.

We wish you the best of luck with your Dharma journey, and look forward to seeing you at Tushita!