Kadampa Meditation Center New York

Welcome to our US National Temple! We are a part of a worldwide network of Kadampa Buddhist centers in more than 40 countries. Founded by Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso Rinpoche, KMC New York and its community show by example how world peace is possible. Whether coming for an introduction to Buddhist meditation, our in-depth courses and retreats, or to simply stroll our 82 acres of natural woodland on a day trip, we offer an enjoyable experience to all who visit.

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Local to the Area?

Join us at the Temple for weekly classes or find a branch class closer to home. Our monthly Friday night “Food for Thought” is a popular event. Our World Peace Cafe offers yummy drinks and home-baked goods. If you have time to share, come volunteer and make new friends!

A man in a blue jacket with a hood, smiling and looking up outdoors in a natural setting.

Daytrips & Weekends

Come for a Saturday workshop or stay onsite for a weekend retreat. We’ve got several hiking trails that are beautiful any time of year, a variety of accommodations and delicious vegetarian/vegan meals. Meet the residents and locals at our cafe, and don’t forget to visit our bookstore/gift shop too!

A woman with curly hair and glasses sitting on a wooden bench in a lush, green outdoor setting, surrounded by trees and plants.

Spend Awhile Here

We have various retreats all year, many suitable to beginners, so you can find the time and topic that works for you. Our annual winter retreat is a great way to immerse in the teachings, whether you stay for a week or for the whole six! With our volunteer visitors program you can put your compassion into action.

A woman with dark hair, wearing a green shirt and a black North Face jacket, smiling while holding a book titled 'Guide to the Bodhisattva's Way of Life' inside a room with wooden window frames.

Want to Learn More?

Meet our New Kadampa Lineage, our Founder Geshe Kelsang Gyatso and our Center teachers! You can download free e-Books from Tharpa Publications, our charitable publishing company. Visit our online library of Buddhist topics to learn more about meditation, karma and more!

Street view of a brick building with a storefront displaying a sign for KMC BK KADAMPA MEDITATION at 444.

Find a Center Near You!

To make the precious teachings of Buddha available equally to everyone in the world, Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso Rinpoche envisioned a Kadampa center in every major city. If you are not from this area, you can use this link to find your nearest location.


Download the 2025 Kadampa Buddhism Worldwide Brochure (PDF) for a complete listing of National Festivals and Dharma Celebrations taking place in Kadampa centers throughout the world this year.