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Nalandabodhi Seattle is first and foremost about community. We are inspired by the teachings of the Buddha and seek to apply Buddhist principles to our everyday lives.
Nalandabodhi had its beginnings in 1996 in Boulder, Colorado under the guidance of Dzogchen Ponlop Rinpoche. The Seattle community was born two years later, when a group of Rinpoche’s students began coming together to meditate and study in a small house in the University District. Ponlop Rinpoche moved to Seattle in 2001, and since then the community has continued to expand and flourish.
In the spring of 2004 we moved to our new home,  Nalanda West — a spacious center devoted to hosting contemplative activities and teachings. Over the past 20 years, the Nalandabodhi Seattle community has grown to over 150 people. Some of us are new to meditation. Others have been practicing and studying for many years. Together we work to support each other as we strive to embody the wisdom that will lead to a kinder world.
If you are new to Buddhism or would like to get to know our community, Introduction to Buddhism is offered several times a year on Wednesday evenings from 7-8:30 p.m.
The class includes a brief meditation followed by a lively discussion hosted by one of our local teachers. All are welcome to attend. Please check our calendar for an updated schedule of all events and classes.
We host a simple brunch on Sundays following Open Meditation. Please join us for good food and conversation after sitting meditation practice!
For those seeking a quiet place for contemplation, we offer Open Meditation on Sundays from 10-11:30 a.m. The first 30 minutes include a brief instruction on the basics of calm abiding (shamatha) meditation.
Starting at 11:30 a.m. on most Sundays, we offer a short teaching and discussion led by Acharya Tashi Wangchuk on applying Buddhist teachings to everyday life. Please check our calendar for specific topics and dates.
Many of our Nalandabodhi offerings are open and available to all. For those interested, membership provides access to a greater range of study and practice opportunities.
In collaboration with local volunteers, the Coordinator Council focuses on planning classes, practices, activities, and celebrations that assist sangha members on the three paths journey.
From left to right: Amina Stemmler, secretary; Nadine Selden, vice president; Martin Wittmann, director; Dianne Eberlein, treasurer; Lynn Conrad Marvet, director; and Acharya Tashi, president.
