Orgyen Samye Chokhor Ling is the first Buddhist nunnery at historic Deer Park in SarnathIts four acres of land are peppered with fruit trees and flowers, and is a short walk from the monastery. Opened in March 2003, it reflects the Venerable Khenpo’s commitment to provide equal educational opportunities for both women and men.

The nunnery now houses 10 nuns, ranging in age from 14 through the mid-30s from Tibet, Nepal, Bhutan and Sikkhim. The two senior nuns are from the same area as the Khenpos (in Tibet) and have both completed at least one traditional three-year retreat.

The education of the nuns is very similar to that of the monks. They first begin with the basics: reading, writing and learning the chants. Learn more here.