Nalanda comprises a number of secular disciplines and activities that integrate art and culture with everyday life. Each of these disciplines represents a genuine contemplative path; together they bring beauty, vividness and wisdom to our lives and culture.

Nalanda takes its name from an eleventh-century Indian university that welcomed teachings and disciplines from many different traditions. In this same spirit, many groups and activities have developed within the Nalanda family. While every Shambhala Center does not yet have a full-fledged branch of all of the Nalanda organizations, you can receive information from the center about their programs and activities.

The activities of Nalanda may be roughly grouped into four major categories: the arts, health, education, and business. Some of these activities occur within structured organizations; others are pursued by individual practitioners with similar inspirations.