Sarnath International Nyingma Institute

What relevance does a teaching from the Buddha over 2,500 years ago hold for us today? Not one of us has been spared from suffering. These truths directly resonate with the experiences of all sentient beings. We come together to contemplate the roots of suffering and explore a path forward. Join us at SINI to delve into this transformative journey.

Program Description

SINI’s Four Noble Truths Program presents a unique opportunity to connect with the Tibetan monastic tradition in a profound way. Former participants have commented on the program’s accessible format and life-changing experience of learning with monks at sacred sites of the Buddha’s life in India.

This pilgrimage combines study and practice rooted in the words of the Buddha. The enlightened insights known as the Four Noble Truths, were taught by the Buddha in Sarnath. These truths, sometimes referred to as the elephant’s footprint, are considered so great, vast, and profound, that all other footprints, or the Buddha’s teachings, may fit inside.

These teachings that have remained the cornerstone of all Buddhist teaching, are brought into a contemporary context through reflective inquiry, aimed at understanding the root causes of suffering.

As a learning and exchange program, this pilgrimage provides SINI's Khenpos and teachers with valuable opportunities to deliver Dharma talks and engage in discussions in English.

Pilgrimage Itinerary

January 14

• Arrival and check-in at Sarnath International Nyingma Institute

January 15 - 19

• Dharma talks on the Four Noble Truths by resident Khenpos at SINI
• Review sessions, yoga, chanting, and meditation instruction
• Boat tour on the Ganges and guided city walk in Varanasi
• 6 nights at SINI
• Connect with monastics at SINI

January 20

• Travel from Sarnath to Bodhgaya

January 21 -22

Bodhgaya
• 2 nights in hotel in Bodhgaya
• Participation in the 37 Nyingma Monlam
• Participation in the Manjushri Namasangiti Sanskrit Global Chanting Ceremony

January 23-24

• One night in hotel in Rajgir
• Prayers at the Mahakala Caves near Bodhgaya
• Chanting and Meditation at Vulture Peak
• Guided tour of the archeological site of Nalanda University

January 24

• Travel from Rajgir to Bodhgaya
• 4 nights in a hotel in Bodhgaya

January 25 - 27

Bodhgaya

• Participation in the 37 Nyingma Monlam
• Personal practice at Mahabodhi Temple
• Assistance with offerings to the assembly
• Integration, and closing ceremony

January 28

• Departure from Gaya Airport

Register by October 15, 2025

Experience a 14-day pilgrimage led by Tibetan Buddhist monastics: All-inclusive with teachings in English, study material, local transportation, site fees, experienced tour guides, and shared accommodations in comfortable hotels. Single room supplement may apply.

Standard Rate: US $2,250 per person

This rate represents the fair market value needed to cover the essential costs of running the program. It ensures that all necessary expenses are met without compromising on the core aspects of the pilgrimage, maintaining our high standards of the pilgrimage experience.
We also offer a limited number of scholarships to help those with financial constraints benefit from this once-in-a-lifetime pilgrimage.

Sponsor Rate: US $5,250 per person

This rate covers the same full service as the Standard Rate. Additionally, it supports a monk for one year in the English for Dharma Purposes Program. By choosing this option, you help empower monastics to preserve, teach, and translate the Dharma, making it accessible to all. If you are able to sponsor this pilgrimage, please consider doing so to make a meaningful impact.

For any questions or assistance with registration, please contact Renate Marx, Director of SINI International Bridges of Goodness Program, at renate.marx@sinibridge.org. You can also visit our website for more information.