This place was a happy surprise. Just wanted to have a quiet, air conditioned place to relax after walking around in sweltering heat around Union Square. Since I'm a fan of everything Tibetan & Buddhism we decided to explore Tibet house. What a hidden gem! Exhibits, paintings, books, cute shop, friendly people. They also have classes on meditation, reiki which im really interested for next time. This place is like a fast tract to Tibet. Love this spot & i highly recommend! read more

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This is a place of learning which encourages spiritual and personal growth, compassion, kindness and world understanding. Tibet House offers classes on a variety of topics from basic meditation to sound baths to in depth Buddhist histories and philosophies with experienced instructors. There is a lending library, gallery, small gift shop, and many classes and activities, free and paid alike. Entrance is free. read more

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The importance and impact of the dharma teachings is one of the most life changing events in a persons life And If you are fortunate enough to be in NYC to hear these great lectures or zoom Robert Thurman , count your lucky stars, it's a genuine blessing read more

Hidden little free gem near union square. Meditation or similar happens but wasn't announced - so be prepared to shed your shoes and join (or in our case, don't). A fantastic library - cozy seating and interesting artifacts. Not good for kids but yes for older kids interested in culture. read more

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What a fantastic space! I thoroughly enjoyed passing through here. On display right now are awe-inspiring landscape photos and bright and colorful statues and sculptures. What I really loved about this gallery is that it's been set up to inspire and encourage curiosity and learning. You can get up close and personal with most objects and really experience them, not just look at them from across the room and then read a lengthy description on what they feel are the most "important" pieces. There's even a little library with some seating that guests are welcome to explore. Entrance is by donation and they don't even have some pushy person telling you to give, just a box when you walk out (not even when you first walk in) to give whatever you want discreetly. Definitely check this place out-even if you're not into Tibetan art or history this place is so worth it. read more

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Okay, this place needs to be exposed more. I'm only the second review?! WHAT?! This place is a Tibetan gem. It's free, suggested donation is $5. Although I wish this place felt like I walked into Tibet itself, it doesn't, but you can definitely see and learn about some Tibetan culture. Walk up the stairs, and you'll find your self in the Museum shop, which to me was a gallery in itself. Beautiful statues, and jewelery, and books of many kinds. To your left you will walk down the hall into a gallery of beautiful photographs taken in Tibet, you'll find mantras, mandalas, and statues. I mean, I can't even explain how wonderful it was to be somewhere that isn't so popular, and be able to see the beauty in something so abused. Being here has inspired me to take a lot of action, so if you're strolling around union square, or have nothing to do, seriously take the time to look into this place. Before I got here, I did some studying on Tibet, so it helped me understand what I was looking at when I got there. read more

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During walked around NYC I found this interesting place by accident. With out thinking I feel something so attracting me to go inside. It was only me as a visitor as that time and I wasn't sure if the place open for a public or it is a private event then I asked a staff, she said I can walk around. I always excited when I see an ancient, history, different culture and art stuff. It was a great experience learning about Tibetan. read more

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A real hidden gem located in the Flatiron/ Union Square area. The place is free to visit and there are changing galleries and artworks for viewing. There are books and research material available. I stopped by to view the gallery of photographs for Fundraiser for Nepal Earthquake Relief. I did not realized such a wealth of treasures here. Take the stairs to the 2nd floor instead of the elevator up, or you'll miss some of the artwork. Tip: The entrance is NOT the main lobby to 22W15 building but a side door to the left. It is a short walk from Union Square station or the F-train on 14 St &6 Ave. read more

A wonderful sanctuary,I've attended many lectures and ceremonies with monks and nuns,including the relics tour,traditional sand painting,and meditation groups.They ve got a wonderful library.and gift store,and the personnel are very compassionate,and helpful...there are also tibetan art exhibitions,and beautiful altars.its handicapped accessible with an elevator.Currently the hours are Wed thru Sun 1100- 400pm,but plz call before going.Tashi Delek. read more

This place is absolutely AMAZING! You have to visit this place if you are interested in Tibetan culture. Tibet House is the Dalai Lama's stop when he visits the US annually, so this is also his headquarters in America. Despite its small size, this building houses perhaps the best Tibetan Buddhist art collection I have ever seen! In its one-floor exhibit, you will see many beautiful thangka and statues of various Tibetan Buddhist figures, extensive collection of Tibetan Buddhist books, and impressive exhibit of Tibetan Buddhist ritual instruments. The gift shop is also an art collection of its own and all proceeds goes to the Tibet House function. All this is FREE too! People go to New York City to see Statue of Liberty or Times Square, but as a huge sucker for Tibetan Buddhism, Tibet House was actually my #1 destination and I was not disappointed. Disappointed by the small Tibetan Buddhist collection in the Met? Then come by the Tibet House! read more

What I like the most about Tibet House are the courses and lectures it hosts from time to time. Some of them are for free, and I won't forget a wonderful Stanford Compassion course, which was delivered in one night. The place also offers guided meditation (donation based), which is a great option for those willing to learn how to meditate. Besides that, you can also buy some books and check out some Tibetan art through the paintings and statues. read more

Finding your chakra is a lot like filtering your energy. Chakra, in Sanskrit, means "wheel" or "turning." Chakra comes from Hinduism and Buddhism and basically there are several key points in your body that harness energy. Be that your mind, or your heart, or your stomach, your "chakra" is how you feel in a particular moment, that's why breathing is so important. For instance, say you're anxious about something, then your body will immediately start to feel physical adrenaline or nervousness, be that tapping your toes, or fidgeting with your hair, or talking really fast. It's all a mind-body-spirit thing. So, when people practice yoga, they release all that negative energy through breathing and stretching. Coming to Tibet House was so peaceful. I felt myself relaxed the minute I stepped inside. It's a museum for Tibetan culture and it sort of smelled like a bikram yoga studio. Even if you're not a yogi, or believe in Buddhism, or spirituality, or any of that stuff, you can still appreciate the calm, ying/yang harmony of this place. I stood in front of the altar and it was breath-taking. If someone were to ask me what religion do I associate with, I would reply, "Christianity." But, if someone asked me what philosophies do I believe in, I would reply, "Buddhism and/or Daoism." Christianity for me is all about faith/hope and being a good person, and forgiveness, and seeking refuge in a deeper meaning of life. Buddhism/Daoism is about energy and flow and soul connections. Totally different concepts for me, but I pick and chose what I need to make the most out of my life. That's what it's there for-- use it! Therefore, even though I didn't bow in front of the altar or "meditate,"-- I did feel as though my energy was calm, present and highly aware. In addition, they have incredible artwork displayed around the museum. It's rare to find a place like this, in a city that never sleeps. read more

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I had the serious fortune of meeting the mind of a living buddha last weekend in retreat - Venerable Robina Courtin - WOW - can that woman Speak. She has right speech alllllll up n down the wazoo. The space is cool, some nice thangkhas (Tibetan paintings which I can't spell correctly). They ordered pizzas for us, too. Which made me feel like a baby and I really LIKE feeling like a baby. Cuz no one ever let me feel like a baby!!! In my baby-formative years I was like, standing in my crib all the time and crying because I was too dumb to figure out how to sit down and like crying so hard and I just KNOW my young mother was like, rolling her eyes in the other room trying to make me become 'stronger' or rather, teach me to "self soothe" (haha we all know where that leads...) so I was super insecure. Still am to this day. Enter: Buddhism. It's a really neat cheat sheet of the mind - a way of consistently brainwashing yourself such that reality becomes more realistically bendable, and you work with your mind instead of flipping out continuously over the difficult ever-shifting outer circumstances. This shit is key. And Venerable Robina is an energetic, spitfire, unusual manifestation of enlightened energy. I am sorry this review is so weird and non-specific, but really this place was great for hosting her and giving us pizzas. read more

It is an escape from the hustle, which is always such a glorious find! This is such a serene place to go and wander, do a little research with their book selection, or a lot of learning when admiring their collection of artifacts. While there is not much to do inside they do have information on events to attend. Everyone is very nice and you feel as if you walked into your friends apartment, its so calm. Just hang out and enjoy. Note to self* Remember to go Back! read more

A remarkable place. Whenever I'm in town i always try to hit the meditation sessions they offer. The teacher is skilled and demonstrates breathing techniques with knowledge and enthusiasm. Do yourself a favor and check this place out. You will love it. read more

Well, esoteric indeed but for those who've even an inkling this is a must as the environment is authentic and art world class. The lectures and workshops are not easily recreated outside Tibet or Columbia University as Thurman is the primary carrying body these days of the knowledge required for Westerners to slip through the cracks and pierce the veil toward enlightenment. Support this place as best you can for we are on the verge of watching China put the very last Dali Lama to rest. A tradition is about to be broken that went thousands of years in a peaceful way unlike any other on Earth. Take a bow and ponder the implications... read more

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I'm seriously surprised at the few review for this wonderful place...maybe because the other 3 reviews pretty much did it justice. This was one of my chosen places to scope out whenever I explored NY. It's a little difficult to find... the first time I came searching, I left my compass at home. I knew what street it was on, approximate location, but not the physical address. I walked up and down the street at least a dozen times before giving up, for fear that someone might think it was suspicious activity. The second time I came back determined; I had the address but ended up in the doorway of some building with a doorman. He politely told me that it was 3 doors down from where I was. I assumed they would some signage, but it was modestly tucked away. You buzz yourself in and voila! You are immediately drawn in. I got there when their new exhibition was being put up -- I got to meet one of the artists, which was really awesome. New exhibitions happen every few months, so there's always a reason to come back! Definitely a place you want to immerse yourself in. read more

This sanctuary near Union Square is best known for its weekly meditation classes, but it offers so much more. Understanding Tibetan Buddhist culture resonates with me ever since The Dalai Lama visited my college and radiated his warmth and spirit. I connected with his message and continue to study Buddhist teachings whenever my time permits. Tibet House offers a safe place for contemplative thought, excellent programs, and an opportunity to interact with like-minded teachers and peers. If Buddhism has ever interested you, and you're looking to bring more balance to your life, I strongly recommend reviewing their programs and finding a class that fits your schedule. Spiritual wellness is something we often put off, but it's an important need that should be nourished. read more

I was so excited to attend a meditation at Tibet House. Founded by Robert Thurman, a stalwart of Tibetan Buddhism in the Western world. Definitely a place to visit. However, the meditation, guided by a Tibetan monk, was lost in translation. Quite literally. No one had idea what he was saying, and talk he did. Perhaps best to attend when a fully fluent English speaking person runs the meditation. announced in their sites. read more

Amazing center, such great events and teachings. Was at a lecture by Joe Loizzo monday night about the nature of mind and WOW.. what words can describe the quality and depth of his teachings... The space is beautiful and welcoming. I chose to become a member and support this great organization. read more

Want to learn more about Tibetan culture? Tibet house is the place for you. They have exhibitions of art, lectures and weekly meditation sessions. You can also take Yoga classes once a week (membership gets you a slight discount). They also have a fair collection of books on Tibet history, art and culture, not to mention on His Holiness the Dalai Lama. And if it couldn't get any better, a small room for meditation or just sitting quietly. read more

I have wanted to visit Tibet House for twenty five years and finally during a visit to New York to provide a performance at another venue had a chance to do so. Tibet House is a little gem. I arrived during the last hour of operation for the day and had a chance to view the galleries and chat with the very friendly and helpful staff who were onsite that afternoon. I will be back in New York next year and will make it my business to return to Tibet House once again. If you have an interest in the cultural and spiritual history of Tibet, or are simply just curious to know more, this is a must see. read more

Great place- I highly recommend the Cultivating Compassion classes!

The Compassion Class I took here with Elizabeth Pyjov forever changed my life for the better! I can't recommend the place and the class more highly. read more

I have loved Bob Thurman's teachings, Menla, Tibet House and their mission for many years now. The courses are many and varied, and always presented in a chill but structured way. Thank you!! read more

Lovely and tucked away in a non-descript building. The art is inspiring and unique. Nice little shop in addition to the library. I came in on a rainy day and felt welcome and enlightened. read more

Amazing place. And it is FREE! They have an impressive collection of artwork, sculptures, and books. It is quiet and relaxing. Definitely coming back! read more

An oasis that invites people in to learn about Tibet and Tibetan Buddhism in a beautiful space that has lunchtime meditations and wonderful events like a public viewing of monks as they create a sand mandala. You won't regret visiting or supporting this wonderful place! read more

Interesting place to look at Tibetan traditional objects, photos and get a feel of this beautiful culture! It is more of an event space I believe because there isn't much to see. It is more of a symbolic place where you converge and discuss ideas. Don't expect to go and visit a museum, it's not. More so a collection :) it's super nice! read more

Really nice people with fun exhibitions and Tibetan ritual items and paintings. Nice free stop to learn about a fascinating culture.

Tibet House is an urban mecca for Tibetan Buddhism that both Buddhists and non-Buddhists can appreciate. The best way to experience Tibet House is to attend one of the center's special events. I attended the opening ceremony of The Maitreya Project's Heart Shrine Relic Tour and found it to be phenomenal. Stay connected by signing up for the e-mail list. read more

I thought this little cultural center would be right up my alley, and I hate to be the lone negative nancy in an enthusiastic collection of five-star reviews, but my visit was a letdown. Aside from a small library, the museum offered little in the way of information, history, or artifacts. The majority of the space was occupied by a collection of contemporary works that were selling for several thousand dollars apiece; it felt more like a showroom than a gallery. The actual cultural items (authentic statues, tapestries, etc.) were interesting, but most had no context, not even a little identification tag. The atmosphere was off-putting, too. During my visit some of the staff were having a loud meeting in an office in the main space, and others were working on a construction or installation project, carrying heavy things around us and giving the impression that we were in their way. The whole time, I had the uncomfortable feeling that I was intruding in someone's private space, like maybe they weren't open but were too polite to say anything-- except that one of the employees had showed us the way in. On the bright side, it was free. And I did pick up some nice yarn and bamboo knitting needles from Lion Brand Yarn Studio next door, so the trip wasn't a total loss. I'm sure Tibet House is great for events and programs, but I wouldn't go back just to browse. read more

I came here for a lesson and meditation session, and was intrigued by all the cool Tibetan decor and art. It almost seemed like a little museum. Their main room was spacious and had plenty of floor pillows and chairs for people to sit. I recommend checking out their event schedule to see for yourself. I'll be coming back again. read more

Peaceful. Welcomed. Tranquil. Curious. Come here to meditate on a donation basis, read books in the extensive library, look at art, hear a talk, or buy Tibetan jewelry or goods. read more

Another Yelp reviewer described the Tibet House well as a hidden gem, and it is a quiet oasis from the city streets as well. I happened upon this place by chance, while my wife was shopping in a yarn shop a few doors down. It was a very hot humid summer day, so it was great to get off the street and into a cool, tranquil environment. There is a wide variety of heritage artwork, maps and books to help people understand and learn more about Tibet, as well as contemporary art reflecting Tibetan and Buddhist themes. I was the only visitor there on this weekday afternoon, and to my surprise Uma Thurman entered for a brief visit. She and her father are major supporters of Tibet House. read more

Tibet House is a nice place to stop for meditation or other programs. I went there a number of times over this past summer, more or less by accident. It's a colorful space in a building a few blocks west of Union Square. The rooms have lovely Buddhist or Asian style art on the walls. In the meditation room, there are both chairs and cushions for those who want to try their programs, some of which are by donation. One small downside is that there's no one who greets you at the desk when you walk in. Also, popular programs can get very crowded so you want to get there early before all the cushions and chairs are taken. Tibet House also has lectures and other events although I haven't gone to any yet. read more