In 2004, Namgyal Monastery-Ithaca received a generous donation to be used for expanded housing, classrooms, and retreats. The Board of Directors then purchased a 28-acre wooded tract of land just three miles south of Ithaca, NY. The original plans for the site were designed to reflect principles of ancient Tibetan architecture. For instance, when viewed from above, the site resembles a mandala. These designs were presented to His Holiness the Dalai Lama who approved of the planned expansion, naming the new facility Du Khor Choe Ling (Land of Kalachakra Study and Practice). The Kalachakra mandala is the most complex symbol system in Tibetan Buddhism. Representing the unity of wisdom and compassion, the practice of the Kalachakra is believed to promote peace and understanding across cultures and times.

Over the course of the next 12 years, the original plan gradually became a reality. Today, DKCL consists of five main buildings with the Shrine Room at the center. Surrounding the Shrine Room are four buildings situated in the four cardinal directions. First came the Community building which serves as office space, dining hall, small library, and dharma shop. Next, the monks’ Residence was constructed with the apartment for His Holiness the Dalai Lama. Then, in 2017, the final two buildings, both student Residences, were completed. The Residences enabled Namgyal Monastery at Du Khor Choe Ling to expand opportunities for additional teachings, retreats, classes, and cultural celebrations.

Thus, in keeping with the Dalai Lama’s original vision for DKCL, Namgyal-Ithaca can now host two annual Kalachakra Retreats, a two-week summer event and a one-week retreat in early spring. These are attended by a growing number of students from across North America and abroad. DKCL is the first institution of its kind, the first Monastery in the world devoted to the promotion of the study and practice of the Kalachakra.

Development History

In early 2004, the monastery received a generous donation to be used to address some of the needs of the monastery for expanded housing and facilities for retreats. The Board of Directors used this money to purchase a 28-acre wooded lot just three miles south of the Aurora Street House. Working with a local architect, an engineer, and Namgyal monks, the Board of Directors developed plans for a new monastic complex to be located at this site.

The new monastery was designed according to traditional Tibetan architectural principles. His Holiness the Dalai Lama has reviewed the plans, written a letter of support for the project, and has named the facility, Dü Khor Choe Ling, The Land of Kalachakra Study and Practice. Additionally, the central Namgyal Administrative committee in India has endorsed the project. When complete, the 13,000-square-foot complex will resemble a mandala comprised of five buildings surrounding a central courtyard.