Message from the Head of the Department

Dr. Chandra Kala Ghimire

Welcome to the Central Department of Buddhist Studies (CDoBS) at Tribhuvan University, Kirtipur. While Nepal boasts a rich heritage as the birthplace and hub of Buddhism, the formal academic pursuit of Buddhist Studies commenced in 1999 under the auspices of Tribhuvan University. This pioneering initiative marked the inception of Nepal's inaugural academic program dedicated to Buddhist Studies within a university setting.

The Department offers three academic programs: Master's in Buddhist Studies, MPhil in Buddhist Studies, and PhD. Given Nepal's rich heritage of Buddhist practice, spanning the unbroken lineage of the Buddha and embracing the philosophies of Sravakayana, Mahayana, and Vajrayana, the Central Department of Buddhist Studies has taken the responsibility of disseminating this ancient legacy academically. It incorporates all existing schools of Buddhism in Nepal within its academic curriculum.

The Vajrayana tradition of Buddhism, prevalent in the Himalayan region, has acquired a distinctive Himalayan character through its symbiotic evolution with Tibetan culture. Today, it finds adherence among the indigenous ethnic communities of the Nepal Himalayas. Referred to as the Vajrayana tradition of Nepal Manḍala, Buddhism in the Kathmandu Valley bears a unique imprint, blending local cultural hues into its practices, thus earning the moniker of Newar Buddhism. Meanwhile, the Sravakayana or Theravada Buddhism has proliferated across the country, primarily in the Hilly and Tarai regions.

Studying at CDoBS offers the opportunity to delve into a myriad of subjects, ranging from fundamental Buddhist teachings and philosophies to a diverse array of academic courses. The curriculum encompasses a broad spectrum of Buddhist Studies, spanning topics such as Buddhist history in Nepal and its diaspora, Buddhist literary traditions including Pali, Sanskrit, and Tibetan, as well as Buddhist art and architecture.

Additionally, courses explore Buddhist practice and culture in the Nepal Himalaya, Buddhism within the Nepal Mandala, and Theravada Buddhism in Nepal. Furthermore, CDoBS addresses contemporary issues through courses such as Studies in Buddhist Approaches to Ecology, Conflict & Trauma, Gender Issues, Human Rights, International Relations, and Buddhist Tourism. Finally, the syllabus includes an introduction of the historical and philosophical foundations of major world religions.

The department cultivates a high-quality teaching and learning environment within the University Campus. Our experienced and knowledgeable faculty members, guided by innovative syllabi, nurture competitive human resources adept in both academic pursuits and research endeavors. Beyond academic programs, we foster academic exchanges both within and outside the institution, collaborate with various academic bodies, organize national and international workshops and seminars, and engage in scholarly publications. These initiatives represent the breadth of our department's endeavors.

Lastly, I cordiallyinvite you to visit our department and discover firsthand the enriching experiences that await you. During your visit, you'll have the opportunity to engage with our esteemed faculty members, connect with current students, and explore our campus facilities.

Warm Regards,

Dr. Chandra Kala Ghimire

Head of the Department

Central Department of Buddhist Studies,

Tel: (977-01) 433 316 2