"It is particularly refreshing to know that the Abbey will be charting a new course as a place where both traditional Tibetan Buddhist teachings and innovative cultural forms will be present."
His Holiness the Dalai Lama



Tradition and Innovation

At Sravasti Abbey, monastics and those preparing for ordination learn and practice the teachings of the Tibetan Buddhist tradition.

In a traditional monastic setting adapted to contemporary American culture, the Abbey strives to instill the Buddhist values of non-harming, mindfulness, compassion, inter-relatedness, respect for nature, and service to all sentient beings.

While preserving the meaning of the Buddha's teachings in a pure way, the Abbey is innovative in embracing gender equality and social service as key elements of community life.

  • Sravasti Abbey provides conducive conditions for a strong Western monastic community to study and practice the Dharma.

  • Sravasti Abbey trains monastics who can practice and teach the Dharma in a Western context.

  • Living simply as the Buddha did, the monastics of Sravasti Abbey are an inspiration to society, showing that ethical conduct contributes to a more grounded society.

  • Through actively developing their own qualities of loving-kindness, compassion, and wisdom, the Abbey residents are making Sravasti Abbey a beacon for peace in our chaotic world.

  • Supporting a monastic community cultivates your seeds of kindness and generosity, enabling you to progress along the path to enlightenment.