Kagyu Samye Ling Monastery & Tibetan Centre

Kagyu Samye Ling Monastery & Tibetan Centre
Eskdalemuir
Langholm
Dumfries DG13 OQL
Scotland

Tel: +44 (0)13873 73232 Fax: +44 (0)13873 73223 scotland@samyeling.org.uk www.samyeling.org.uk

Here is a very unusual, very peaceful place: a Tibetan monastery set in the rolling hills of southern Scotland. Founded in 1967, Kagyu Samye Ling was the first major Tibetan Buddhist centre in Europe and it is still regarded as the « mother » centre of the many Kagyu centres that have been established since. The temple is magnificent and is the heart of the community’s life of daily prayer and practice. Guests are welcome to attend any of the meditation and prayer sessions, but some knowledge of the particular tradition of Vajrayana Buddhism is necessary to participate in the prayers. Vajrayana Buddhism relies strongly on the visualization of deities in its approach to transforming the mind poisons that cause us suffering, and learning such methods takes time and needs careful preparation and guidance. Lama Yeshe Losal is the Abbot and Retreat Master and he, together with the experienced sangha of ordained monks and nuns undertake such instruction and support.

Samye Ling welcomes people from all faiths in the understanding that Buddhism is a way of life rather than a religion. Nevertheless, there is a strong tradition of Tibetan Buddhism underpinning the work at this centre and a commitment to preserve the culture and heritage of Tibet.  No one is expected to adopt Buddhism, but the opportunities to learn more about this profound philosophy and spiritual tradition are there for anyone who is open and interested. 

 

 

For those who are looking for a rest, Samye Ling offers a wide range of options. From working in the organic garden to helping out in the kitchens, from taking part in weekend courses to relaxing in the Tibetan Tea Rooms, there is plenty to do – or not do! There are lovely walks, within the grounds and further away and whether it’s a meditative stroll around the stupa or a hearty stride into the hills, the benefits of a little exercise and fresh air are all part of life here. There is no expectation or pressure and guests are free to choose their own programme of activity within the framework of The Five Golden Rules.

The Five Golden Rules

These Rules safeguard the well-being of everyone and are to protect life and refrain from killing; to respect other’s property and refrain from stealing; to speak the truth and refrain from lying; to encourage health and refrain from all intoxicants; to respect others and refrain from sexual misconduct.

 

 

Less than a ¼ mile from the main centre is Purelands, a smaller independent centre where longer retreats are held and where you may hire the space for their own work. Here the atmosphere is calm and peaceful, conducive to more inward-focusing work. It can get pretty busy at the main centre, especially in the summer. As well as the ongoing programme of building development and the continuing programme of courses, teachings, empowerments and a visit from Lamas and Rinpoches, there is a flourishing programme of humanitarian activity. The original founder, Dr Akong Tulku Rinpoche, has set up initiatives to help the poor and homeless in the UK, Tibet and other countries. He also founded Tara Rokpa Therapy, a system of psychotherapy that works with the principles of Buddhism to heal patterns of emotional and mental suffering. For those with more serious mental health problems, Lothlorien offers long-term support and residential care in a therapeutic community setting.

Open: All year. Receives everyone but not families. 

Rooms: 60 singles, 7 twins, and 20 dormitories. You need to bring adequate bedding and equipment if you are camping, as these are not provided. 

Facilities: Disabled. Camping, garden, guest telephone 013873 73227. 

Spiritual Help: Personal retreat direction. Weekend courses and short retreats at Purelands Retreat Centre. 

Guests Admitted to: Unrestricted access. 

Meals: Everyone eats together. Simple vegetarian food only. 

Special Activities: A big planned programme of events, courses and study. Send for the brochure, which is among one of the best available from a retreat centre. Situation: Rather isolated, quiet but busy in summer. There can be lots of people visiting here. 

Maximum Stay: No limit. 

Bookings: Letter, telephone, fax, E-mail. The office hours are normally 9AM-12PM & 1.30PM – 6PM daily. 

Charges: Accommodation current fees are Dormitory bed £16, Twin bedded room £21, Single room £27 and Camping with own tent £13. These rates are for accommodation per night and exclude meals. Weekend courses, which include accommodation & meals, range around £50 per person. 

Access: Train: to Carlisle, then by bus. Bus: to Hawick, then by taxi. Car. Via M6, A7.