Newcomer’s Guide
Whether you are new to Buddhism or new to Hay River KTC, welcoming visitors is an important part of our mission. We know it might be uncomfortable to join a Tibetan Buddhist meditation class or visit a Buddhist center for the first time. We want you to feel welcome and at ease. There are three ways to connect with us: visiting Hay River KTC in person; joining one of our Saturday monthly classes at the Shambhala Center in Minneapolis; or joining our programs via Zoom.
Visiting Hay River KTC
Where is Hay River KTC?
We are located in rural Dunn County, just outside the village of Ridgeland. Our address is N14085 County Road V V, Ridgeland, WI 54763. Visitors are welcome to attend our Meditations & Teachings on Sunday mornings, led by Lama Yeshe or one of his senior students. Please see our calendar for a list of upcoming topics. While in-person attendance is strongly encouraged, you can attend these programs virtually via Zoom. Please join our email list to receive a Zoom Link to all of our programs.
Can I speak with Lama Yeshe privately?
Lama Yeshe is available for meditation instruction, interviews (personal consultation), and to answer questions about Tibetan Buddhism. He can be reached directly at 715-949-1407 or 108yeshe@gmail.com.
What does the “KTC” in KTC Hay River stand for?
KTC is the acronym for the Tibetan name for our group, “Karma Thegsum Choling” which roughly translates to a “place of dharma teaching.”
What should I wear to a Buddhist meditation center?
Please dress comfortably when visiting Hay River KTC. For those who are able, it is best to sit on meditation cushions. For that reason, short-shorts, short skirts, and tank tops are discouraged. (Note that we also have chairs for sitting, so feel free to use them during your visit if needed.)
You’ll be asked to remove your shoes. Bare feet are fine, but you can wear or bring socks if you wish.
What type of lodging and accommodations are near Hay River KTC?
Hay River KTC can host a limited number of overnight guests, depending on the event and the size of your party. Guests are also welcome to use our kitchen. Please contact Lama Yeshe in advance of an event to discuss potential on-site lodging, 715-949-1407 or 108yeshe@gmail.com.
The closest hotels are in Barron (17 miles) and Menomonie (30 miles).
Joining a Saturday class at the Shambhala Center
On the third Saturday of each month, Lama Yeshe will teach and lead a discussion on a topic geared to those new to Buddhism and especially those who are curious about Buddhism and some of the Vajrayana practices of Tibetan Buddhism. These sessions are intended to help students follow their curiosity and ask lots of questions, something the Buddha encouraged his students to do. Please check our schedule to see upcoming topics for these Saturday sessions. The Shambhala Center address is 2931 Grand Street NE, Minneapolis, MN.
Joining KTC Hay River Programs via Zoom
Most of our programs are available via Zoom. Please sign up to receive our newsletter, which contains the link to the Hay River KTC Zoom address and password. One Sunday each month is devoted to a teaching an introductory topic followed by group meditation. Please check our schedule for which Sunday that takes place.