This course explores the history and transmission of religious beliefs and practices in Tibet. Insight will be gained into the history of the Tibetan people, nation, and relationship to China, and the impact tourism and the commodification of ethnicity has had on the social, religious and economic landscape of the country. Students will consider how Tibetan religious belief and practice differ from Western belief systems. Students will also explore Tibetan resistance to Chinese colonialism and compare and contrast these forms of resistance to forms of protest in the United States.

While in Tibet, students will visit Tibetan Buddhist temples and monasteries, the Potala Palace, home to the Dalai Lama, as well as visiting Jokhang Temple, the most sacred temple for Tibetan Buddhists. Tibet is well known for its mountainous landscape and so students will trek to Yama Do, Tsotup Chu Valley, Herder’s Camp, Wango and Samye. Students will see numerous small villages and settlements, as well as key sites that shaped Buddhist thought throughout the centuries.*

Students must be aware that they will do multiple treks of up to 5 hours each at a very high altitude (17,000+ feet). Students must assess whether their health and fitness level are suitable for such activity.

This course is most appropriate for students interested in History, Philosophy, Religious Studies, Tibetan culture, and hiking.

The academic course associated with this program is HIS/PHL/REL 398 and 399: Beyond Shangri La: Tibet in Historical and Modern Perspectives for 4 total credits. Students will elect to receive HIS, PHL or REL credit. It will be taught by Professors Sarah Griffith and Eric Mullis.

SPRING course/MAY travel

This is an OPEN program.
*all itinerary items are tentative and subject to change