The Trijang Buddhist Institute (TBI), located in the scenic green mountains of Vermont, was officially inaugurated in September 2004. It serves as the North American seat of His Holiness Kyabje Trijang Chocktrul Rinpoche and is dedicated to preserving and disseminating the teachings of Tibetan Buddhism, particularly those of the Gelug tradition founded by Je Tsongkhapa.

Mission

TBI’s mission is to work for the benefit of all sentient beings and to serve anyone interested in Tibetan Buddhism, with a special focus on the Gelug tradition. Guided by the spiritual leadership of His Holiness Kyabje Trijang Chocktrul Rinpoche, TBI provides a welcoming environment for people of all religious and non-religious backgrounds, offering teachings, meditation practices, and retreats to foster wisdom, compassion, and spiritual growth.

History

The property that houses TBI was originally known as the Institute for Visionary Leadership. Under the leadership of its former resident director, Ms. Rea Barkley, and with the support of many friends, the 365-acre estate underwent extensive restoration and beautification. Key features include:

1. 1790s Farmhouse: Restored to serve as a residence for TBI’s resident teachers.

2. 1880s Barn: Transformed into a multi-functional space housing:

• The Temple (Gompa) for meditation and teachings.

• A Bookstore offering Buddhist texts and ritual items.

• An Office for administrative operations.

• A Dining Hall with a fully equipped commercial kitchen.

Ms. Barkley envisioned the property becoming a Buddhist center dedicated to spiritual practice and education. With her unwavering devotion, she offered the estate to His Holiness Kyabje Trijang Chocktrul Rinpoche to fulfill this vision. Shortly before her passing in March 2004, she was ordained as a Tibetan Buddhist nun by Kyabje Yongyal Rinpoche and given the name Ani Tsering Lhamo.

Six months later, the property was formally gifted to His Holiness Kyabje Trijang Chocktrul Rinpoche and renamed the Trijang Buddhist Institute.

Programs and Activities

TBI offers a wide range of classes and activities designed to accommodate practitioners at all levels, from beginners to advanced students. These include:

• Meditation Classes: Guided sessions for calming the mind and cultivating mindfulness.

• Teachings on Buddhist Philosophy: Covering foundational topics like Lamrim (Stages of the Path) and Lojong (Mind Training), as well as advanced Tantric practices such as Vajrayogini retreats.

• Cultural Studies: Courses on Tibetan language, rituals, and traditions.

• Community Engagement: Events that promote compassion, wisdom, and universal responsibility.

TBI also serves as a venue for retreats, empowering practitioners with opportunities for deep spiritual reflection.

Legacy

TBI is not only a center for Buddhist studies but also a hub for preserving Tibetan culture and spirituality. Its mission reflects the aspirations of His Holiness Kyabje Trijang Dorje Chang (the predecessor of Kyabje Trijang Chocktrul Rinpoche), who dedicated his life to spreading Tibetan Buddhism worldwide. Under the leadership of His Holiness Kyabje Trijang Chocktrul Rinpoche, TBI continues this legacy by offering authentic teachings in an accessible manner to modern practitioners.

The Institute remains a vibrant place where individuals can connect with Tibetan Buddhist wisdom while contributing to the greater goal of benefiting all sentient beings. Through its teachings and programs, TBI ensures that Je Tsongkhapa’s Gelug tradition thrives in today’s world while honoring its rich history and cultural heritage.