Astrology Residence Project

The Astrology Residency Project

Rooted in the Theravada Buddhist tradition and inspired by a commitment to preserving traditional knowledge, Nirbana Educational Trust is establishing the region’s first ASTROLOGY RESIDENCY PROJECT. The initiative aims to create a living centre of learning where ancient wisdom on horoscope interpretation and astrology can be studied, practised, and passed on to future generations. By nurturing dedicated learners from India and around the world, the programme seeks to transform knowledge into service, enabling practitioners to contribute to the wellbeing, guidance, and spiritual growth of communities.

Programme Structure

125-Day Residency
(4 Months)

The programme hosts up to 8 participants annually through a selective application process. The residency runs from July to October each year, with opportunities for extended stays based on research, learning, or community engagement objectives.

Personalized
Mentorship

Learn astrology and astronomy through the lens of lived experience. Participants receive direct mentorship, practical learning opportunities, and immersive exposure to how astrology, spirituality, cultural traditions, and everyday community life are interconnected.

Community
Engagement

Residents actively participate in community life and service initiatives as representatives of the monastery. Opportunities may include supporting monastery activities like teaching children, assisting in local farming and animal husbandry, promoting hygiene and sanitation awareness, and contributing to cultural and community-led projects.

Capacity
Building

The residency is built on mutual learning. While participants learn from the monastery and local communities, they are also encouraged to share their own skills and expertise. Scholars may develop self-driven projects that contribute to the wellbeing of children, youth, women, or the wider community, creating lasting value beyond the duration of the programme.

Astrology Residency Programme Application FAQs

1. Who can apply for the residency?

Anyone above 24 years of age with a genuine interest in astrology, community service, cultural learning, research, or spiritual traditions is welcome to apply.

2. Is there any eligibility requirement to apply?

Yes. Applicants are expected to have completed an undergraduate degree (in any discipline) or possess an equivalent level of life or professional experience that demonstrates maturity and commitment to community engagement.

The residency is designed for individuals who are ready not only to learn but also to contribute. We believe meaningful community development happens through mutual exchange-where participants gain knowledge from local traditions while sharing their own skills, perspectives, and experiences. We therefore encourage applications from those who are prepared to actively engage with people, support community initiatives, and help build sustainable and self-reliant communities alongside us.

3. Do I need prior knowledge of astrology?

No. Curiosity, commitment, and willingness to learn are more important than prior experience.

4. Is the programme open to international applicants?

Yes. Applications are welcome from participants from India and around the world.

5. How many participants are selected each year?

The residency hosts up to eight participants annually to ensure personalized mentorship and meaningful community engagement.

6. What language is the programme conducted in?

The primary language of instruction is English, with support from local translators whenever required.

7. Where will participants stay?

Participants stay in simple monastery guest accommodation designed to provide a peaceful and immersive learning environment. Men and women’s rooms are separate dorms. Bath is a common sharing.

8. Are meals included? Do I have to pay for it?

Yes. Simple meals are provided during the residency as part of the monastery’s daily routine. You can buy your own groceries and cook yourself if you want to. The monastery kitchen is open to use for resident participants.

9. Is there a programme fee?

No. At present we are not charging any participant fees. Selected applicants will receive detailed information for accommodation, and other associated costs (visas, special permit, travelling) before confirming their participation.

10. Will I receive a certificate?

Yes. Participants who successfully complete the residency will receive a Certificate of Participation from Nirbana Educational Trust. The Certificate of Participation issued by Nirbana Educational Trust is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or recognized as an official certification by any government authority or statutory educational body. It should not be interpreted as a professional, academic, or government-recognized qualification. The Trust will felicitate a small ceremony to honor your achievement with the presence of community members and special guests.

11. What is expected from participants?

Participants are expected to respect the monastery’s code of conduct, local customs, daily schedule, and actively engage in both learning and community activities.

12. How do I benefit from this programme?

Our Astrology Residency Programme is for open and like-minded participants who would like to be part of our community building initiatives. While we can offer to share our knowledge in astrology science, it is our way to let you study and live our way of life with you. The programme is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or recognized as an official certification by any government authority or statutory educational body. It should not be interpreted as a professional, academic, or government-recognized qualification. You are encouraged to apply if you aspire to be part of a community that is working together to build a more self-reliant, sustainable, and compassionate future through shared learning and meaningful action.

13. Can I stay beyond the residency period?

Yes. Extended stays may be considered for research, documentation, community projects, or other meaningful contributions, subject to approval.

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14. Can I contribute to the community in my own way?

Absolutely. We encourage participants to share their skills, experiences, and ideas through voluntary workshops, creative activities, documentation, or community initiatives that benefit local children, youth, women and residents. The residency programme is designed in a mutual exchange manner, so that like-minded communities connect, build and prosper together. It is not just a course, but a lifetime experience.

15. How do I reach Kungsung Monastery?

Detailed travel guidance, including the nearest airport, railway station, and local transport options, will be shared with selected participants before the programme begins.

16. Do I need to apply for a visa, and any other formal documents to be part of the programme?

Yes. Once your participation is confirmed, all international participants are responsible for complying with all applicable immigration and visa requirements of the Government of India. Upon confirmation, Nirbana Educational Trust can issue an invitation letter to assist with the visa application process where applicable.

International participants must also apply to PAP (Protected Area Permit) for foreign tourists/visitors (check here to know more). PAP is acquired through approved local tour operators only, which Nirbana Educational Trust shall help with the participations for ease of paperwork support.

17. Is PAP (Protected Area Permit) valid for limited numbers of days?

Yes. But for participants part of the Astrology Residency Programme will have support backing from Nirbana Educational Trust to validate your stay beyond the government limited allowance of days. The Trust will comply with all official documentation requirements to be submitted by you to the official authority, so that participants don’t have to worry while they’re already in between the programme.

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18. Do I have to pay for my travel and visa?

Yes. Participants will have to take care of their own travel expenses from wherever you are coming from to reach India and to Arunachal. Once you confirm your participation from your side, we can help you calculate your budget  to fully be aware of the cost incurred during the whole duration of the residency programme.

19. Will there be any additional expenses during my stay?

Your accommodation and daily meals throughout the residency programme are fully provided by Nirbana Educational Trust. However, participants are responsible for their own personal expenses, including medical consultations, medicines, personal travel, clothing, toiletries, cosmetics, and any other personal purchases.

In the event of illness or an emergency, the Trust and its members will provide all possible assistance in arranging medical care and ensuring your health and safety. While we will support you throughout the process, any medical or related expenses will remain the responsibility of the participant.

We also recommend that all international participants obtain comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling to India.

20. How far is the nearest town for shopping and daily essentials?

The nearest town is Namsai, the district headquarters, located approximately 3KM from Kungsung Monastery. The town has markets, pharmacies, banks, restaurants, and shops where participants can purchase personal items and daily essentials. The monastery is well connected by road, and local transportation is readily available for convenient travel between the monastery and the town throughout the day.

If there’s more questions you have not found in this FAQs, then write to us at founderoffice@nirbanaeducationaltrust.org

Become a Patron


You can also become a patron by taking part in development and welfare activities of the monastery. 

It is advisable to provide support in the monastery’s on-going activities. You may write or contact for taking updates on the same.