LANGUAGE COURSES
Classical Tibetan Language Courses
Classical Tibetan is your gateway to one of the world's most complete Buddhist literary traditions. The Tibetan Canon contains some of the only surviving translations of lost Sanskrit Buddhist scriptures, preserving millennia of wisdom from the greatest minds in Buddhist philosophy, meditation, medicine, and logic.
By learning Classical Tibetan, you gain direct access to original Buddhist teachings, profound philosophical texts unavailable in other languages, and medical and astronomical treatises from the Tibetan tradition. You'll be able to read prayers and practice texts in their intended language while understanding poetry, logic, and fine arts that shaped Tibetan culture.
Whether you're a serious Buddhist practitioner, academic researcher, or simply curious about this rich tradition, Classical Tibetan opens doors to understanding that no translation can fully provide. Our progressive program at SINI, led by native instructors, makes this ancient language accessible to modern students through proven teaching methods and supportive community learning.
This course sequence is ideal for students, scholars, or practitioners seeking to access Tibetan Buddhist literature and historical documents in their original language.
Introduction to Classical Tibetan 101
Instructor: Dr. Tenzin Ghegay
An entry-level course introducing the Tibetan script, grammar foundations, and basic vocabulary, aimed at students with little or no prior exposure to Classical Tibetan.
Intermediate Classical Tibetan 201
Instructor: Dr. Tenzin Ghegay
This stage builds on foundational knowledge and introduces more complex grammatical structures, syntax, and vocabulary necessary for reading traditional texts.
Intermediate Classical Tibetan 202
Instructor: Dr. Tenzin Ghegay
This stage builds on foundational knowledge and introduces more complex grammatical structures, syntax, and vocabulary necessary for reading traditional texts.
Classical Tibetan Reading and Pronuncation Practice 101
Introduction
Instructor: Dr. Tenzin Ghegay
Students will learn proper reading techniques and pronunciation through structured practice.
Classical Tibetan Reading and Pronuncation Practice 201
Intermediate Reading
Instructor: Dr. Tenzin Ghegay
Build reading fluency through guided study of intermediate-level classical texts.
Classical Tibetan Reading and Pronuncation Practice 301
Advanced Reading
Instructor: Dr. Tenzin Ghegay
This course engages learners with advanced classical materials, fostering critical reading skills and deeper textual understanding
Advanced Classical Tibetan 301
Instructor: Dr. Tenzin Ghegay
These advanced courses refine grammatical analysis, interpretation skills, and the ability to read and translate complex philosophical and historical Tibetan texts.
Advanced Classical Tibetan 302
Instructor: Dr. Tenzin Ghegay
These advanced courses refine grammatical analysis, interpretation skills, and the ability to read and translate complex philosophical and historical Tibetan texts.
Tibetan Language Programs Team
SINI's Tibetan Language Program includes an international team of dedicated native and non-native speakers delivering both Classical and Colloquial Tibetan courses through innovative teaching methods.

Franziska Oertle
Director

Paul Wobig
Assistant Teacher

Tenzin Ghegay
Teacher

Ania Sambroska
Assistant Teacher

Tzoe Wong
Registrar

Nat Thammamitr
Assistant Teacher

Lhakpa Tsering
Teacher

Bhargavi Viswanath
Assistant

Alexandra Sukhanova
Teacher

Melissa Katz
Assistant

Pema Woeser
Assistant Teacher

Juan-Felipe Garcia Peña
Online Learning Developer
Volunteer with Us
Preserve Sacred Wisdom Through Service
Join our language program team and help preserve some of the world’s most precious literary traditions! We welcome volunteers to support the administration and teaching of this sacred language program. Help bridge ancient wisdom with modern learning by assisting with course coordination, student support, and educational activities while working alongside dedicated instructors and scholars in the sacred setting of Sarnath. Your contribution will help students access millennia of Buddhist philosophy, meditation, medicine, and poetry in their original form.
Ready to make a meaningful impact? Apply today by contacting us.