Nepal — Land of the Gods

Nepal is a land of enchantment with a unique blend of Hindu and Buddhist culture, breathtaking natural beauty and a spiritual mystique. The gods mingle in the sacred and the profane in this tiny Himalayan kingdom where everyday activities are governed by religious festivals and the gods. It is home to eight of the world’s highest mountain peaks including Chomolungma — Mother Goddess of the World — Mt. Everest.

Explore Nepal’s three ancient city-kingdoms of Patan, Bhaktipur and Kathmandu during your study abroad program in Nepal. Study the magnificent examples of Hindu and Buddhist architecture. Learn about the sacred art in Nepal’s living museums — its temples, monasteries, and shrines.

Experience the spectacular natural beauty of Nepal’s countryside immersed in Nepal’s rural life in the small towns and villages that you visit. Studying Tibetan Buddhism while living in a Buddhist monastery is another highlight of the program. Receive lectures from the abbot of the monastery who shares his many years of experience. Learn about Nepal’s remarkable ancient culture by living it.

Program Description

Our Nepal program is offered during the winter session where students will conduct research in a wide range of cross-cultural studies — philosophy, religion, history, art, and anthropology. Study Hinduism and Buddhism during this intensive study abroad program. Conduct fieldwork with visits to major Hindu temples and Buddhist monasteries. Learn about Nepal’s indigenous cultures by living and studying in a Tibetan Buddhist monastery where you study and practice Buddhist philosophy and meditation each day. Experience the urban cities of Kathmandu, Patan, and Bhaktipur and the rural villages of Nepal. Learn the timeless traditions of creating sacred art by studying with renowned Nepali painters and sculptors. See first hand how Hindu and Buddhist civilizations have lived in harmony over the centuries as a continual living tradition in this tiny Himalayan kingdom.

This is a sample program description. When students enroll in the program they will receive a detailed syllabus and course description for each course.