Central Institute of Buddhist Studies(CIBS)

Prior to 1959, scholars, novices, and monks from Ladakh traditionally ventured to Tibet in pursuit of advanced monastic Buddhist education and extensive research within renowned Mahaviharas such as Drepung, Sera, Tashi Lhunpo, Gaden, Sakya, Sangag Chosling, Mindolling, Dorjeydak, Drigung, and other monastic centers. However, the political situation in Tibet during the 1950s abruptly brought this practice to a halt. Recognizing the need for a formal Buddhist education institution in Ladakh, the Central Institute of Buddhist Studies was established in 1959, with the inaugural rituals conducted by H.E. Skyabje Ling Rinpoche, the senior tutor of H.H. the 14th Dalai Lama. Initially named the "School of Buddhist Philosophy," the institution gained full accreditation and financial support from the Ministry of Culture, Government of India in 1962, owing to the advocacy of Prime Minister Nehru at the behest of Kushok Bakula Rinpoche.

Formally registered as an educational institution in 1964 under the J&K Societies Registration Act of 1941, the School of Buddhist Philosophy witnessed further development in 1973. New buildings were erected in Choglamsar, located 8 kilometers southeast of Leh, introducing Sanskrit, Hindi, English, and Pali languages alongside the teachings of Buddhist philosophy and Tibetan literature. Affiliated with Sampurnanand Sanskrit University, Varanasi (U.P.), the institute introduced courses tailored for students in the frontier region, marking a significant expansion of its academic offerings.