Frequently Asked Questions - November Course
- How safe is it to come to Nepal?
- I am new to buddhism, is the course suitable for me ?
- English is not my primary language - will translation of the teaching be provided?
- I am an elderly person, and have trouble sitting on the floor
- Do I need Vaccination and Malaria medication
- What clothes should I bring for the course?
- Do I need to bring a sleeping bag?
- What are the accommodations like?
- What should I bring and what should I leave behind?
- Daily schedule
- How do I book (Booking Form)
How safe is it to come to Nepal ?
Over the past few years, Nepal has experienced a lot of political problems.
Since April 2006 the political situation has improved , and there are very few disturbances. However there is still the occasional transport strike.
Certain common sense safety considerations should be followed, such as not travelling after dark, always letting other people know where you go, not trekking or walking in the hill areas alone, and avoiding areas that are particularly prone to trouble.
We feel that Kopan is very safe and we have not experienced any problems.
I am new to buddhism, is the course suitable for me ?
This course is suitable for both beginners and older students. It is an excellent introduction to the theory and practice of Tibetan Buddhism. During the course you will receive instructions on how to apply methods to develop your mind, and gain insight into your mind and your life, which will enable you to benefit yourself and others. The meditation techniques taught are analytical and contemplative, and a mediation teacher is always available or questions and personal guidance.
English is not my primary language - will translation of the teaching be provided?
In General, Kopan does not provide translation.
For the November course in 2008, Frnech translation will be offered.
For other languages translation is depending on a person attending the course and volunteering their services, or a group of people sponsoring a translator for them.
Kopan will assist any translator by providing a FM microphone for broadcasting the translation.
It is essential to bring an FM radio if you are planning to listen to translation to the teaching.
If you are planning to come in a group, we recommend that you bring your own translator.
I am an elderly person, and have trouble sitting on the floor
Chairs are provided in the meditation hall for those who find it difficult to sit cross legged for a longer period of time, or have trouble with their back. Breaks during the teachings also offer the opportunity to stretch your body.
Do I need vaccination and malaria medication
No special immunization is required, but Tetanus vaccination is strongly recommended. If you are planning to visit the Terai region of Southern Nepal, malaria medication is recommended. In Kathmandu and hill areas malaria is not prevalent.
What clothes should I bring for the course?
Bring comfortable, casual clothes as you will be doing a lot of sitting on the floor (on cushions). Warm clothes are essential for the morning - when you meditate (or sit still for longer periods of time) you will need some warm jumpers, sweaters, shawls. Also warm socks and a hat are recommend as well as a hot water bottle, for those who get cold easily. Go with the layering principle. As the day warms up you shed the various layers of clothing. The locals wear warm shawls - a flexible piece of clothing with many uses.
Do I need to bring a sleeping bag?
We recommend to bring a sleeping bag if you are booked to stay in the dormitory, or in simple double rooms If you are in three-bed accommodation with private bathroom, bedding is provided.
It is possible to hire a blanket from the reception.
A sheet and pillow is provided for all accommodation.
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What are the accommodations like?
The accommodation is clean and simple, ranging from dormitories to double rooms, and 3-bed rooms with private bathrooms. There are public showers with solar water heaters available. Be prepared for simple living, and little space for personal belongings. Bring as little as possible, essential only. If you wish for more privacy, you can bring your own tent; we will provide a ground sheet and a mattress.
What should I bring and what should I leave behind?
Bring essentials only.
Recommended:
Earplugs, good shampoo, some medicine (for diarrhea, common cold, headache, flue),
Plenty of warm clothes, walking shoes, umbrella, insect repellent.
A Walkman can be useful to record the teachings bring a microphone).
An FM radio with ear phones is useful to listen to translations (if necessary), but not mandatory.
Bring some of your favorite snacks, such as muesli bars .
( FM radios are essential if you are planning to go on to Dharamsala (India), as translation of teachings is usually broadcast via FM radio.
Better leave these things behind
Expensive watches and jewelry, fashion wear - you will mostly need jeans, sweat pants and shirts etc. Your CD-player, music tapes, musical instruments. Novels and other non-Dharma reading material. Your computer, Palm held, mobile phone (if you do bring these things, we will ask you to deposit them in the office during your stay here). No pets: we don't allow any pets in the monastery grounds.
Daily schedule
The daily schedule will vary slightly over the time of the course and is meant as a guideline only.
5.30 am - ProstrationThe schedule will vary slightly during the days that Lama Zopa Rinpoche teaches
6.00 am - Morning tea in the dining room
6.30 am - Morning Meditation
7.30 am - Breakfast
9.00 am - Teachings
11.30 am - Lunch
2.00 pm - Discussion groups
3.00 pm - Break for 1/2 hour
3.30 pm - Teaching
5.00 pm - Tea
6.00 pm - Guided Meditation
7.00 pm - Dinner
8.00 pm - Guided meditation, question/answer