Founded by Thubten Jigme Norbu, brother of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama of Tibet, the Tibetan Mongolian Buddhist Cultural Center and Kumbum Chamtse Ling Temple are the oldest and largest centers of Buddhism in the United States. Established with the aim of nurturing and preserving the rich culture and heritage of Mongolia and Tibet, the center features several shrines, stupas, sculptures, and prayer wheels.
The beating heart of the center is the Kumbum Chamtse Ling Temple (meaning “Field of Compassion” in Tibetan) and residences for the monks. Visitors can enjoy guided tours through the center, which includes stops at a reception room, special shrine room, and bookstore, giving visitors a chance to learn more about the ancient culture of Buddhism along the way.
Location: 3655 Snoddy Road, Bloomington, Indiana
