PILGRIMAGES

Four Noble Truths
Seminar & Pilgrimage

A 15-day immersive journey to the birthplace of the Dharma. Study the Buddha’s most foundational teachings at SINI, where they were first delivered 2,500 years ago, then walk in his footsteps through Rajgir, Nalanda, and Bodhgaya.

Next Edition January 2027: Dates TBA
15 days
3 sacred sites
10+ years running
Monks assembled before the Dhamek Stupa in Sarnath, where the Buddha first taught the Four Noble Truths
FNT 2018 — Pauline and Choki Dorji

About the Program

SINI’s signature program begins with a five-day seminar at the Institute, where resident Khenpos deliver Dharma talks on the Four Noble Truths in English. The journey continues through Rajgir, climbing Vulture Peak and visiting the ruins of Nalanda University, before arriving in Bodhgaya for the Nyingma Monlam Chenmo, the annual World Peace Prayers at the Mahabodhi Temple.

Participants also join the Manjushri Namasangiti Sanskrit Chanting Ceremony, led by approximately 60 Sanskrit pandits, a gathering unique to this pilgrimage.

Format 15-day seminar & pilgrimage
Route Sarnath → Rajgir → Bodhgaya
Teaching In English, by SINI Khenpos
Open to All: no prerequisites

The pilgrimage route through Sarnath, Varanasi, Rajgir, Nalanda, and Bodhgaya

“No words can express my deepest gratitude for everything I learned during the Four Noble Truths Pilgrimage, inside and outside the classroom. Stepping on such sacred grounds after being introduced to the very footprints of Buddhist philosophy by wise monastic teachers truly shook me.”

— Ana, FNT Participant

Discover the full program

visit the program website
FNT 2025 participants