Info & Support

Who we Are

Ganden Mahayana Kadampa Buddhist Center is a 501(c)(3) non-profit Buddhist meditation Center which offers classes on meditation and Buddhism in Columbia and throughout South Carolina for all levels of interest.

Ganden Center is a member of the New Kadampa Tradition-International Kadampa Buddhist Union, a western-based Buddhist tradition with no political affiliations that follows the pure Mahayana Buddhist teachings of Atisha (AD 982 – 1054) and Je Tsongkhapa (AD 1357 – 1419), as presented for contemporary society by modern-day Buddhist master, Geshe Kelsang Gyatso (b. 1931).

What we Offer

Ganden Center offers the following:

Weekly classes on meditation and Buddhism for all levels of interest
Special events, such as retreats and workshops, for all levels of interest
Chanted prayers and group meditations for inner and outer peace

View videos about Ganden Center and our umbrella organization, the New Kadampa Tradition, here.

Where to Find Us

Ganden Mahayana Buddhist Center is located in the heart of downtown Columbia, South Carolina, on Main Street a few steps away from the Capitol Building. (Click here for directions.) In the evenings and on weekends, you can park anywhere on Main Street or the surrounding streets free of charge. For day time classes, if you cannot find a spot at one of the metered spaces, you can also park in the nearby Washington St. Parking Deck for a small charge.

Comments or Questions?

We are very happy to hear your feedback, questions, and requests for classes in new locations. We strive to serve the people of South Carolina to the best of our ability, so please let us know how we can improve by emailing us at ganden [at] bellsouth.net or by calling us at 803-200-2115.

Volunteering

Ganden Mahayana Buddhist Center is run entirely by volunteers and donations. Everyone who works hard at Ganden to bring you classes, events, and branch locations in your area is a volunteer with a full-time job. You can help out in little ways or in big ways, it’s up to you - just email our Administrative Director to find out what you can do to help.

Your Financial Support Helps

Ganden Center is an entirely self-supporting organization that does not receive funds from any state or private agency – including our umbrella organization, the New Kadampa Tradition – International Kadampa Buddhist Union. That means everything at Ganden, from the rent and utilities to supporting our Resident Teacher, comes from the kind donations of our students and benefactors.

Monthly Membership

You can become a Monthly Member and pledge your financial support each month. There are benefits to being a member! For one monthly fee, you get to attend all the classes you like and you get discounts on special events. Fill out the Monthly Member form and become a supporting member of Ganden Center today.