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History of Kyidong Tashi Samtenling Monastery

Kyidong Tashi Samtenling Monastery was established in 1756 in the Kyidong Valley, also known as the “Happy Valley,” in southern Tibet near the Nepal border. This sacred site, with a legacy of blessings from numerous influential Tibetan Buddhist masters, has been central to the transmission of Dharma for over two centuries.

The monastery was founded by His Eminence Kachen Yeshi Gyaltsen, a renowned Buddhist master and the personal tutor of the 8th Dalai Lama, Jamyang Gyatso. Kachen Yeshi Gyaltsen, born in Tsang Ta-Nak, Tibet, achieved the prestigious academic rank of Kachen after studying at Tashi Lhunpo Monastery in Shigatse. He dedicated 15 years of intensive practice in the Kyidong Valley, which he followed with 12 years as the tutor of the Dalai Lama. Throughout his life, he authored 18 volumes on Buddhist philosophy, practice, and ritual, making him widely respected across Tibet for his profound knowledge and commitment to Lojong (mind training).

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Kyidong Samtenling in Pictures

FAQ

Buddhism and Meditation

The monastery was founded in 1756 by His Eminence Kachen Yeshi Gyaltsen, a renowned Tibetan Buddhist scholar and the personal tutor of the 8th Dalai Lama, Jamyang Gyatso.

It was originally located in the Kyidong Valley in southern Tibet, near the Nepal border. Known as the “Happy Valley,” this area was blessed by many Buddhist masters such as Guru Rinpoche, Milarepa, and Atisha, making it a spiritually powerful site.

In 1959, due to the political upheaval in Tibet, the monks fled and reestablished the monastery in Kathmandu, Nepal, in 1960, near the sacred Boudhanath Stupa.

The monastery offers a comprehensive education combining traditional Buddhist studies (such as Madhyamaka philosophy and tantric rituals) with modern subjects like science, math, English, and Nepali. Monastic arts and spiritual disciplines are also emphasized.

The monastery is home to fewer than 130 monks, many of whom come from Tibetan and Himalayan regions, including communities like Rasuwa, Manang, Sherpa, and Tamang.

Its deep historical roots, connection to the 8th Dalai Lama and Kachen Yeshi Gyaltsen, and relocation legacy make it unique. The monastery preserves authentic Gelug lineage practices, offers holistic monastic education, and is situated beside one of the most sacred sites in Buddhism—Boudhanath Stupa.

The monastery follows the Gelug tradition and conducts daily rituals and ceremonies dedicated to the three main tantric deities: Guhyasamaja, Chakrasamvara, and Yamantaka, reflecting its strong foundation in tantric practice and meditation.

The monastery includes a main assembly hall (Tashi Dukhang), a ceremonial hall (Chörwa Hall), monks' quarters, a temple for Kangyur scriptures, classrooms, a library, a kitchen, and residential buildings, creating a well-rounded environment for both spiritual practice and academic study.
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Happy Clients Say

"Kyidong Samtenling is more than a monastery—it's a place of peace, learning, and deep spiritual connection. Visiting here changed the way I see life and faith."

"My son joined the monastery as a young monk, and the guidance, discipline, and compassion he’s received have been truly transformative. We’re deeply grateful."

"As a scholar of Tibetan Buddhism, I’m always inspired by how Kyidong Samtenling preserves its teachings while nurturing new generations. It’s a living bridge between tradition and tomorrow."