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Central Institute of Buddhist Studies: Admission 2026, Courses, Fees, Ranking & Leh Ladakh Campus Life
location
Leh Ladakh, Ladakh
author
Abhijeet Chatterjee
Updated on 9 January 2026

More About CIBS Leh Ladakh

Central Institute of Buddhist Studies (CIBS), located amidst the serene and culturally rich landscape of Leh, Ladakh, is widely recognized for its profound dedication to the preservation and propagation of Himalayan Buddhist cultural heritage. Established in 1959 as the School of Buddhist Philosophy, it has evolved into a Deemed to be University under the discerning guidance of the Ministry of Culture, Government of India. This institution serves as a vital hub for traditional and contemporary Buddhist studies.

CIBS offers a comprehensive array of academic programs ranging from Certificate and Diploma courses to advanced degrees such as Shastri (equivalent to a Bachelor''s), Acharya (equivalent to a Master''s), M.A., M.Phil., and Ph.D. These meticulously designed courses delve deep into Buddhist Philosophy, Bhoti Language and Literature, Buddhist Art and Architecture, and various aspects of Himalayan culture, providing students with a holistic understanding. Admissions for key programs are conducted through the Institute''s own rigorous entrance tests, ensuring a dedicated and meritorious student body.

The Institute is distinguished by its unique location, offering students an unparalleled opportunity for cultural immersion and spiritual growth within the heart of Ladakh. It aims to foster critical thinking and research capabilities, preparing scholars and practitioners who can contribute significantly to the fields of Indology and Buddhology. While specific placement statistics in modern terms are not a primary focus, the Institute''s alumni often find roles in academic research, teaching, cultural preservation, and public service, upholding the rich traditions they have mastered. CIBS stands as a beacon of learning, committed to nurturing intellect and preserving a priceless cultural legacy for future generations.

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Year Of Established

1959

About Central Institute of Buddhist Studies - [CIBS] Leh

The Central Institute of Buddhist Studies, located in Leh, Jammu and Kashmir, was established in 1959 as a Deemed university. This college is known for its focus on Buddhist studies, philosophy, and culture, offering various courses in Sanskrit, Tibetan, English, Hindi, and Pali languages, as well as traditional medicine, astronomy, and fine arts.

The Central Institute of Buddhist Studies has been accredited with an A grade by NAAC. Although its current affiliation is not specified, it was formerly affiliated with the Sampurnanand Sanskrit University in Varanasi. The main academic streams include Buddhist philosophy, languages, and traditional arts and sciences. However, the fee range for its courses is not explicitly mentioned in the available search data.

The college has a strong research focus, with opportunities for students to engage in in-depth studies of Buddhist philosophy, history, and culture. It also has a well-equipped library, known as the Sherab Gyasched Tasal Library, which houses over 38,000 books and various resources on Buddhist studies. Additionally, the college has a placement cell to enhance employability among its students, but specific placement outcomes are not detailed in the search data.

Key Highlights

ParameterDetails
Established1959
TypeDeemed
AffiliationFormerly affiliated to Sampurnanand Sanskrit University, Varanasi
AccreditationA grade by NAAC
LocationLeh, Jammu and Kashmir

Courses Offered at CIBS Leh Ladakh

Specializations

Bachelor of Arts in Shastri

Specializations

Certification in Buddhist StudiesCertification in Scroll PaintingCertification in Sculpture+3

Specializations

Diploma in Buddhist StudiesDiploma in Tibetan Language And Literature

Specializations

Master of Arts in Acharya

Specializations

Ph.D in Bhot LiteraturePh.D in Bodh Puranic HistoryPh.D in Buddhist Studies+2

Scholarships & Financial Aid

The Central Institute of Buddhist Studies, Leh offers scholarships and financial aid to eligible candidates based on merit and need.

College Scholarships

ScholarshipEligibilityBenefit
CIBS Leh ScholarshipsStudents studying in Gonpa schools grades 6th to 8th, grades 9 students through Shastri, students studying in Acharya and interns at Sowa-RigpaStipends
Mert-Based ScholarshipsMert studentsScholarships provided by the institute

Government Schemes

Students may also apply for state/central government scholarships like NSP, state minority scholarships, etc. The institute annually disburses INR 161.62 lakhs towards student stipend, merit scholarship and research fellowship.

Campus & Infrastructure

The Central Institute of Buddhist Studies is located in Choglamsar, 8 km south of Leh town, on the bank of the Indus River. The institute operates out of two campuses: the new and the old.

Location Details

ParameterDetails
CityLeh
StateJammu and Kashmir
AddressChoglamsar, Leh, Ladakh – 194101

Facilities

  • Library with over 38,000 books, 30+ subscribed national & international journals, and 200+ volumes of rare xylography of Bhoti texts
  • Digital library section with computer systems and internet connection
  • Computer labs
  • Canteen serving hygienic food at affordable prices
  • Sports facilities, including space for indoor and outdoor games like Volleyball, Football, Cricket, Handball, Table Tennis, Chess, and Carom
  • Medical facility
  • Transportation facility
  • Museum with a collection of antiquities and regional objects-de-art
  • IT infrastructure resources

Hostel

The Central Institute of Buddhist Studies has three well-furnished, spacious, and clean hostels with a capacity of 100 students in each, named after renowned Buddhist academics. The hostels are available for monks, girls-nuns, and boys coming from far away locations, and provide mess facilities with excellent cooks serving delicious and healthy food.

Nearest Attractions at CIBS Leh Ladakh

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Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport (IXL), Leh

8.5 km

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Leh Bus Stand

11 km

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Sonam Norboo Memorial (SNM) Hospital, Leh

13.5 km

Frequently Asked Questions

When was the Central Institute of Buddhist Studies established?

The Central Institute of Buddhist Studies was established in 1959.

Where is the Central Institute of Buddhist Studies located?

The Central Institute of Buddhist Studies is located in Leh, Jammu and Kashmir.

What type of institution is the Central Institute of Buddhist Studies?

The Central Institute of Buddhist Studies is a deemed university under the Ministry of Culture.

What courses are offered by the Central Institute of Buddhist Studies?

The Central Institute of Buddhist Studies offers various courses, including UG, PG, Ph.D, and Certificate programs in subjects like Sanskrit, Buddhist philosophy, Tibetan literature, Traditional Medicine, and Fine Arts.

What is the library of the Central Institute of Buddhist Studies called?

The library of the Central Institute of Buddhist Studies is called the Sherab Gyasched Tasal Library.

How many books are there in the library of the Central Institute of Buddhist Studies?

The library of the Central Institute of Buddhist Studies has more than 38,000 books.

Is the Central Institute of Buddhist Studies approved by UGC?

Yes, the Central Institute of Buddhist Studies is approved by the University Grants Commission (UGC).

What is the affiliation status of the Central Institute of Buddhist Studies?

The Central Institute of Buddhist Studies was formerly affiliated to the Sampurnanand Sanskrit University in Varanasi, but it is now a deemed university.

What is the NAAC grade of the Central Institute of Buddhist Studies?

The Central Institute of Buddhist Studies has been graded 'A' by the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC).

Campus Facilities at CIBS Leh Ladakh

Academic Spaces

Classrooms

Lecture Halls

Seminar Rooms

Basic Services

Clean Drinking Water Facilities

Electricity Backup

Stationery Shop

Entry/Exit Rules

Access Control System (Manual)

Food Options

Campus Cafeteria/Canteen

Hostel Mess Facilities

Hostel Facilities

Boys'' Hostel

Girls'' Hostel

IT Facilities

Central Computer Center

Wi-Fi Enabled Campus

Laboratories

Computer Lab

Language Lab

Library

Central Library

Digital Library Section

Rare Manuscript Collection

Spacious Reading Rooms

Medical Facilities

First Aid and Basic Health Center

Recreational Areas

Hostel Common Rooms

Safety & Security

CCTV Surveillance System

Gated Campus with Boundary Wall

Security Guards

Sports & Fitness

Outdoor Playground/Sports Ground

Student Help Desks

Academic Counseling Services

Grievance Redressal Cell

Transport Services

Parking Facilities

Student Reviews & Testimonials

Dr Randeep Singh Poonia

5

Great Initiative of govt. Of India

Arun Oberoi

5

best institute in India to learn and study buddhism .. The director Geshe Konchok is amazing person

Kunzang Dorjey

5

Prior to 1959, Ladakhi scholars, novices and monks used to go to Tibet in pursuit of higher monastic Buddhist education, and to do research for years in the famous Mahaviharas of Drepung, Sera, Tashi Lhunpo, Gaden, Sakya, Sangag Chosling, Dege, Drigung and other monastic centres. In the 1950s, this practice came to an abrupt end because of the political situation in Tibet. Hence, it was held imperative that a Buddhist institute should be established for formal Buddhist education in Ladakh. According to archival sources, when the Government of India was organizing the celebration of the 2500th birth anniversary of Gautama Buddha in 1955, Bakula Rinpoche led an official delegation to Tibet, and on his return had a three-hour meeting with the Indian Prime Minister, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru. At this meeting, Bakula Rinpoche gave a detailed account of the situation in Tibet, including the fact that Ladakhis could no longer travel there to pursue their religious education. He underlined the need for ensuring similar opportunities in Ladakh. Accordingly, the Central Institute of Buddhist Studies was established with the holy rituals performed by Skyabje Ling Rinpoche, the senior tutor of the 14th Dalai Lama. The institute was initially called the “School of Buddhist Philosophy”. Leh was chosen as the centre for the dissemination of Buddhist culture and philosophy in view of its geographical suitability and traditional matrix. In 1962, at Kushok Bakula Rinpoche’s urging, Prime Minister Nehru was fully persuaded of the necessity for such an institution for the Buddhists living in the Himalayas. Thus the institution was given full accreditation with regard to financial support and came under the administrative charge of the Ministry of Culture, Govt. of India. In its initial stages, the institute admitted ten monks, one each from ten monasteries in Ladakh. Two teachers were appointed to instruct the students in Tibetan literature and Buddhist philosophy. The first Principal of the institute (1959 – 1967) was a renowned Tibetan Buddhist scholar, Ven. Yeshi Thupstan. For three years these ten monasteries bore the entire expenses of the students and the teachers. From 1959 to 1961 the institute was in Leh. From there it was moved to Spituk village, about 8 km away from Leh, in 1962. The School of Buddhist Philosophy was registered as an educational institution in the year 1964, under the J&K Societies Registration Act of 1941. In 1973 new buildings for the institute were constructed in Choglamsar, 8 km south-east of Leh. Sanskrit, Hindi, English and Pali languages were introduced, in addition to the teaching of Buddhist philosophy and Tibetan literature. In the same year the institute was affiliated to Sampurnanand Sanskrit University, Varanasi (U.P.), and courses suitable for students of the frontier region were introduced.

Tsewang Dorjai Tongol

5

A deem to be university. An excellent institution for Buddhist philosophy studies. Offering degrees diplomas in Buddhist philosophy mainly Tibetan Buddhism. Tibetan medicine, painting wood curving,astrology sculpture and many more.

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