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Frequently Asked Questions

When can I visit KPC?

A change to KPC’s usual times of operation have been made due to the risk of Coronavirus. We are asking the general public not to enter the temple, but instead enjoy and explore the many sacred Stupas and our 65-acre Peace Park across the street.

You can learn about the changes made within KPC to keep the public safe outlined in “Our Response to the Coronavirus“. There are several different altars where people are welcome to make offerings, both in front of the Stupas and statues, as well as in front of the temple.

KPC will be offering many different ways to stay engaged, feel supported, and be able to make a difference even through this “social distancing” time. One of the most important ones is now available through our “Virtual Temple“.

MORE FREQUENT QUESTIONS

Please remember that the temple building is currently closed to the public due to the need for social distancing. All references to access to the temple refer to after reopening.

-- Who can visit the temple in Maryland?

All are welcome. Jetsunma’s vision is for Kunzang Palyul Choling (KPC) to be a place of refuge for all. Families are welcome; young children should be accompanied by an adult; pets must be on a leash at all times.

-- When is a good time to visit KPC?

The peace park in Maryland and grounds are open every day sunrise to sunset. The prayer room in Maryland is currently open to visitors Saturday and Sunday 11am-4pm.

The Amitabha Stupa in Arizona is open every day sunrise to sunset.

-- Do I have to know how to meditate to come to the classes or ceremonies?

No. Meditation is not a prerequisite for any of the activities. If you would like to learn about meditation, you are most welcome to participate in the meditation instruction class, Stabilizing the Mind, that is offered on Saturday and Sunday mornings. The class is free of charge and open to the public. No preregistration is necessary. Experienced meditators are also welcome to attend the class and the group meditation session that follows.

-- How should I dress when visiting the Temple?

You are welcome to visit in casual or dressy clothing. Since the Temple has a large monastic community of monks and nuns with vows of celibacy, we ask that visitors do not wear clothing that is unreasonably revealing. If you plan to spend time sitting in the Prayer Room or meditating, you may want to consider wearing clothing that is comfortable rather than too restrictive. While in the Prayer Room or other Teaching Room, we ask that you remove your shoes.

-- Will there be someone at KPC to answer questions?

Greeters are available in Maryland from 11am – 4pm on weekends. Questions can be sent to kpc@tara.org.

-- Are children allowed at the Temple, even small children?

Yes, absolutely. We welcome people of all ages. However, we do not have a child-care program and young children must be supervised by the adults who bring them to the Temple.

-- Can I bring my dog to the Temple?

Although we don’t restrict you from bringing a dog to the Temple, we also don’t encourage it. Dogs must stay outdoors and cannot be left unattended on the grounds at any time. Dogs must be on a leash at all times, regardless of how well trained or behaved. If you wish to have your dog accompany you on the walking trails in the 65-acre Peace Park , you are welcome to do so, also on a leash. If you do bring your dog, we encourage you to take a walk around the sacred stupas, so your dog, as well as you, may benefit from the blessing.

-- Are Groups able to visit the temple?

Group visits are welcome in Maryland. We host many youth groups from other religious traditions, as well as school groups. Please schedule the visit in advance by contacting kpc@tara.org.

-- Is there a restaurant at the Temple?

There is not a restaurant at KPC. There are restaurants in Poolesville and Darnestown.

-- Are overnight accommodations available at the Temple?

KPC Maryland does not have lodging or dining on-site. For out-of-town visitors, the nearest options are 20-30 minutes away. No public transportation reaches the temple.

-- Is there anything to do other than pray, meditate, take a tour or attend a class?

Yes. Although KPC is a Buddhist Temple, dedicated to offering traditional Vajrayana Buddhist teaching and a place of traditional spiritual practice, we welcome guests to take photos of the Stupas and Temple, enjoy the 3 1/2 miles of walking trails and birdwatching in the Peace Park. When the temple is open to the public, you are welcomed to visit our beautiful crystal collection in the Prayer Room, and also our library where reading material relative to Buddhism and a spiritual path is available to browse through.