Welcome to Dharmapala Buddhist Center!

Located in Roanoke, Virginia, Dharmapala Buddhist Center offers meditation classes, workshops, retreats, study programs, and spiritual community in the tradition of Kadampa Buddhism brought to the West from Tibet by Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso. As a member of the New Kadampa Tradition - International Kadampa Buddhist Union, Dharmapala is one of over 1200 Kadampa centers and groups around the world. The Center was founded in 2003 at the request of local students and today it continues to provide a place of peace and tranquility in Roanoke.

We offer Buddha's timeless teachings in a simple, practical manner that can help you solve your problems and find happiness from within.

Where to Start

We provide a variety of classes suited to different levels of interest and experience, such as the General Program Drop-in Classes and the Foundation Program classes. You are welcome to come visit us to learn more about our special tradition or just enjoy a few minutes of rest and refuge in meditation with spiritual friends.

You do not need to be a Buddhist to attend the Center or to benefit from practices such as meditation. Everyone is welcome!

Empowerment

As a non-profit organization, Dharmapala Buddhist Center depends entirely upon the membership and donations of our local Sangha. Please support your Center and create the causes for greater peace and happiness in the community.

"If we give money to a Dharma Center there will be great meaning, the merit will increase for as long as the Center exists. As the Center grows and flourishes, bringing happiness to more and more people, the power of our offering will increase." -Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso