Aryaloka Buddhist Center

Aryaloka was founded in 1985 with a vision for a Center expressing a comprehensive and collective Buddhist way of life. Our mission is to create the best possible conditions in which to explore and practice the Buddhist spiritual path. We aim to study and practice meditation and Buddhadharma in a spiritual community based on the ideals of generosity, compassion, and awareness. Aryaloka has developed into the nucleus of a growing Buddhist mandala. A thriving regional sangha reaches from Maine to Massachusetts. Classes, discussion and practice groups and project 'kulas' meet almost every day of the week for our local sangha. Other friends from all over the country join us for retreats. There are affiliated groups in Maine, Massachusetts and New York City. Several Buddhist-owned businesses and companies are located in our region, where Buddhists practice ethics in their workplace. A significant and expanding outreach program serves men in the New Hampshire State Prison. Aryaloka, situated on 13 secluded acres in southern New Hampshire, houses a beautiful meditation hall, common areas, and retreat facilities. The Center provides: a home for regional Buddhists' practice and study opportunities for collective and solitary retreats a Buddhist reference library of tapes, CDs, periodicals, and books Buddhaworks, a shop offering a large selection of books and practice supplies a peaceful site for Buddhist and other groups to rent for meetings or retreat Aryaloka offers practice and study at all levels from introductory classes to training for ordination. Through participation in classes, retreats, celebrations, and pujas, one may learn about a Buddhist way of life and gradually become part of the sangha. Advanced study and practice are available to mitras, practitioners who have made a commitment to deepen their Buddhist practice within the FWBO. Training for entry into the Western Buddhist Order is on-going, as are collective practice opportunities for Order Members.