Holistic Education for Integral Human Development
Inspiring journey to Ladakh
Inspiring journey to Ladakh
We thank Ven. Sanghasena and Mahabodhi Society for their kind hospitality throughout the trip.
From 23 August to 2 September, a group of 35 Nalandians led by Nalanda founder Bro. Tan travelled to Ladakh for the trip of a lifetime. Ladakh is a region administered by India, located in the northern part of the Indian subcontinent at 15,000 ft above sea level, on the Karakoram mountain range. The group was privileged to be hosted by Ven. Sanghasena Mahathera, and was warmly welcomed upon arrival at Mahabodhi International Meditation Centre (MIMC).
On 25 August, Nalandians were joined by the staff and students of MIMC to observe the 10-year memorial of our four beloved Dhamma sisters – G. G. Tan, Julie Ang, Jennie Cheong, and Lee Ah Yem – at a special service led by Ven. Sanghasena. The group then visited the Buddhist schools and centres run by the Mahabodhi Society to provide them with material and moral support, as well as gain a better understanding of their progress.
We were humbled by the kind reception extended by Ven. Sanghasena and our hosts at MIMC.
Nalandians offered daily essentials to the residents of the elderly care centre, who had either taken shelter here from the streets or are no longer had the ability to fend for themselves.
Students at the hostel of the MIMC Campus welcomed the group with cultural performances.
Students welcoming the group at the Mahabodhi Branch School in Tingmosgang.
Sis. Buddhini represented the group in offering a donation to the school at Tingmosgang.
The Malaysia flag flies proudly at the hostel in Tingmosgang, a tribute to the generous donors who contributed to the construction of the hostel.
As the group traversed across the Ladakh region, to scenic places such as Khardung-La and Nubra Valley, they visited temples, monasteries and ancient sites to discover the rich history of Buddhism in Ladakh. Every morning and evening, Nalandians would also gather for meditation, chanting and Dhamma teachings, enabling each traveller to not just take in the sights but to be engaged in wholesome learning, reflection and practice of Dhamma.
The group crossed Khardung La, a motorable pass which is over 5,000 meters above sea level.
The study group listening intently to the morning Dhamma teaching at Diskit.
A picturesque opportunity with the Diskit Monastery (Diskit Gompa) in the background.
Visiting the museum at Stok Palace which showcases the royal family treasures, including the Queen of Ladakh’s ancient turquoise-and-gold encrusted crown.
Bro. Tan advised us to always bear gratitude in our hearts and to repay the kindness of others where possible, during the Dhamma teaching at MIMC.
Upon reaching the peak of a hill in Sambodhi, the devotees enjoyed a short meditation session.
Nalanda officers offering robes and requisites to the Mahā Sangha.
Ven. Sanghasena led the sharing and transference of merits before the group departed MIMC.
We are grateful to Ven. Sanghasena and our hosts for their kind hospitality, and we wish them continued success in their noble and charitable missions. We also extend our appreciation to Bro. Tan for his guidance and teachings, as well as to Datuk Charlie and the organising team who ensured all aspects of the trip were well taken care of. We will fondly remember Ladakh, and keep its graceful people and well-preserved culture in our hearts.