Hello, travelers and peace seekers! I bring you a fresh story full of serenity from a magical corner in the south of Spain. Recently, I had the opportunity to take a guided tour of the largest traditional Buddhist style temple in Europe, it is in Alhaurín el Grande (Málaga). Or I assure you that it has been an experience that has left a deep mark on my traveling soul. This place is not just a temple, but an oasis of tranquility and beauty, perfect for those looking for a respite from the everyday hustle and bustle.
The Arrival: First Impressions of the Temple
When I arrived, the first thing that struck me was an enormous scenic beauty (in the middle of the Guadalhorce Valley and at the foot of the Montaña de Mijas), especially coming from Malaga. Followed by the impressive architecture of the temple. It is a temple of traditional Buddhist style that has been awarded for the use of natural stone in its construction and the whole is imposing, crowned by a 5-story dome that offers a majestic appearance especially from the inside, mixing flashes of light, pieces of sky and a huge Dharma wheel, that crowns it.
The Kadampa Buddhist temple is a sublime fusion between oriental aesthetics and the nuances of the Andalusian landscape. This first visual impact sets the stage for a unique experience, immersing you in a world where spirituality and nature intertwine harmoniously.
“The true cause of happiness is inner peace.” — VENERABLE GESHE KELSANG GYATSO RINPOCHE —Excerpt from the book “How to Transform Your Life”
“”The true cause of happiness is inner peace.” — VENERABLE GESHE KELSANG GYATSO RINPOCHE —Excerpt from the book “How to Transform Your Life”.”
Exploring Inner Peace: Activities and Teachings
It’s not just a place to admire, but to experience. In the guided tour they explain to us the meaning of all its symbology and qualified statues, each element of the building itself and everything it contains inside, as well as that the mere fact of seeing these extraordinary temples, leave powerful impressions in the mind to have fortunate lives, find and understand the teachings about the true meaning of human life and achieve our highest virtuous desires.
I participated in a meditation session and listened to teachings that opened my mind a little more to new perspectives. I will share details about the activities available, from meditation workshops to spiritual retreats, and how these can be a door to an unforgettable inner journey.
The Temple Gardens: A Nature Walk
The gardens surrounding the temple are a chapter apart. Walking through them is like walking on a canvas painted with the brush of tranquility. I will tell you about my walk through these gardens, describing the flora, the statues and the special corners that invite reflection and mental rest.
The Kadampa Community: Encounters and Conversations
Ultimately, what really brings the temple to life is its people. I was fortunate to interact with members of the Kadampa community, who shared their experiences and worldviews. I will recount these enriching conversations and how the sense of community and openness is palpable in every corner of the temple.
Every year it brings together international events of thousands of Buddhist and non-Buddhist practitioners, who come from the 5 continents to receive teachings, meditate and pray together for peace in the world.
We have been told that it was founded by Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso Rinpoche, a world-renowned Tibetan Buddhist meditation master and scholar, as part of his vision and mission in this world:
“”To reveal and spread the Buddhist teachings to the people of the modern world, as practical methods of acquiring wisdom, cultivating a good heart, and maintaining a peaceful mind at all times, because without inner peace, outer peace is impossible.”
For all its qualities, the Kampala Buddhist Temple has been declared of public interest. It was inaugurated in June 2022, transforming the former Kadampa Meditation Center located right here since 2006. It’s one of those places you have to visit if you want to escape the most crowded destinations on the Costa del Sol.
Get ready to immerse yourself in a place that will take you along the paths of serenity and beauty, showing you a side of Andalusia that you may never have imagined. Let’s go! 🌸🧘♂️✨
Can I stay at Kadampa Buddhist Temple?
Well, yes you can. Here are some of the options they offer for those interested in deepening their spiritual practice, learning more about Buddhism, or simply seeking a different life experience:
Volunteering
The volunteer program is a wonderful opportunity for those who want to immerse themselves in temple life while volunteering their time and skills. As a volunteer, you can get involved in various activities, from cooking and gardening to general temple maintenance. This experience not only allows you to live in a spiritual environment, but also to learn about teamwork and community life from a Buddhist perspective.
Spiritual Retreats
The temple regularly hosts spiritual retreats that vary in length and focus. You can find weekend retreats, silent retreats, and even longer retreats that focus on specific aspects of meditation and Buddhist teachings. These retreats are a perfect opportunity to deepen your meditation practice, find inner peace, and gain a deeper understanding of Buddhist teachings.
Courses & Workshops
For those interested in learning more about Buddhism, the temple offers a variety of courses and workshops. These can range from basic introductions to Buddhism and meditation, to more advanced studies of specific texts and practices. The courses are taught by experienced monks and teachers and are suitable for both beginners and more advanced practitioners.
Stays in the Temple
If you’re looking for a more immersive experience, the temple offers the possibility of longer stays. During your stay, you can participate in the daily life of the temple, attend prayers, meditations, and, if you wish, receive personal teachings. This is a unique opportunity to live according to Buddhist principles and experience life in a spiritual community.
Each of these options offers a unique way to connect with oneself and Buddhist philosophy, in an environment that promotes peace and self-knowledge. I hope you find the one that best suits your personal growth path! 🌼🙏📿
How to get to Kadampa Buddhist Temple and when can you visit it?
Here you can find all the information and book your free visit: www.meditaenmalaga.org/visitas-guiadas-gratuitas-al-templo
What are the Temple’s hours?
Days: Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays:
12:30-13:00h – Welcome and reception
1:00-1:30 p.m. – Guided tour · free
1:30-1:50 p.m. – Guided meditation · free
Reception & Shop Hours
Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays from 11.30 a.m. to 2 p.m.
If you want to discover more places like this in Malaga, you may also be interested in visiting the Buddhist Temple of Benalmadena.