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Our Tradition

At Samudra Centre, we practice and teach Modern Buddhism—a presentation of the ancient Kadampa Buddhist lineage tailored specifically for the modern world. Our tradition makes Buddha’s timeless wisdom accessible and practical for everyday life, regardless of culture, background, or experience.

We are a member of the New Kadampa Tradition – International Kadampa Buddhist Union (NKT-IKBU), a global network of over 1,400 non-profit meditation centres and branches founded to help people worldwide cultivate inner peace, mental clarity, and true happiness.

Our Founder

Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso Rinpoche

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Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso Rinpoche (affectionately known as Geshe-la) devoted his entire life to bringing the authentic teachings of Buddha to the contemporary world.

Born in Tibet in 1931, Geshe-la was ordained as a Buddhist monk at age eight and studied extensively at Tibet’s great monastic universities, earning the title "Geshe" (spiritual friend). Following 18 years of deep meditation retreats, he accepted an invitation to teach in the UK in 1977.

Over the decades, Geshe-la established three unique study programmes, founded the International Temples Project, and authored 24 authoritative books that translate deep Buddhist insights into practical methods for solving daily problems. He is remembered globally as a humble, compassionate monk who taught purely by example.

"My books are commentaries to Lama Tsongkhapa’s teachings and his teachings are commentaries to Buddha's teachings... my hope is that through these methods, everyone may find lasting peace in their hearts."

~ Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso Rinpoche

Our Spiritual Directors

Gen-la Kelsang Jampa

Gen-la Jampa is an internationally renowned, ordained Buddhist teacher and the General Spiritual Director of the New Kadampa Tradition - International Kadampa Buddhist Union (NKT-IKBU).As a senior NKT teacher, Gen-la Jampa has been a student of Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso for many years, and under Geshe-la's guidance has taught at many centers and events around the world.Gen-la is well-loved for his clear and inspiring teachings and his ability to touch people’s hearts through his sincerity and loving-kindness.

Gen-la Kelsang Sangden

Gen-la Sangden is the Deputy Spiritual Director of NKT-IKBU, and is the National Spiritual Director of Kadampa Buddhism in Mexico, Colombia, Nicaragua and Peru, and the Resident Teacher at KMC Mexico.She is admired by many for her good example and her loving and clear advice. She has practised and taught Kadampa Buddhism for over 25 years.

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Get to Know Samudra Centre

Discover who we are, explore our rich tradition, and see the different ways you can connect with our vibrant community.

Our Centre

Discover our peaceful sanctuary in the heart of Buxton, our values, and what to expect when you step through our doors.

Our Teachers

Meet our Resident Teacher, Gen Kelsang Dema, and learn about the dedicated team guiding classes and courses at Samudra Centre.

Group & School Visits

We welcome schools, universities, and community groups for interactive tours, talks, and guided meditation sessions.

Volunteer With Us

Experience what it is like to be part of something special by offering your time or skills to help keep our charity thriving.

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 Our Contact Details


Meditate in High Peak
Samudra Buddhist Centre

47 High Street

Buxton

SK17 6HB

Tel:01298 79777

email:info@samudracentre.org

modern-buddhism free ebook

Free ebooks

Reg Charity No. 1081470

Member of the New Kadampa Tradition - International Kadampa Buddhist Union (NKT-IKBU)

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