The Washington D.C. Buddhist Vihara was founded in 1965 and incorporated as a Society in 1966 under the patronage of the Most Venerable Madihe Pannasiha Mahanayaka Thera. The Washington D.C. Buddhist Vihara was the first Theravada Buddhist monastic community in the United States.
The Washington D.C. Buddhist Vihara is dedicated to the presentation of Buddhist thought, practice, and culture. It is an educational, as well as a religious organization. It is staffed by resident Bhikkhus ( monks ) who are available to discuss the various aspects of Buddhism, teach meditation, and offer informal courses. The Bhikkhus are available by invitation to give lectures, as well as meditation workshops at universities, schools, churches, and other community groups.
To foster the education of Buddhism, the Washington D.C. Buddhist Vihara maintains a Buddhist library on all facets of Buddhism and a Buddhist book service. A free list of books available for purchase from the book service is available upon request.
All visitors, regardless of religious affiliation are invited to participate in Vihara activities, as well as to come to the Vihara to patronize the library and the book service.
The meditation room and shrine room are always open…..
