Two Jamyang Foundation schools are located in the snowy land of Spiti, a desolate region surrounded by high Himalayan peaks. Life is arduous in this frozen climate.

Due to heavy snowfalls, transport and communications to the Himalayan region are impossible much of the year. Economic hardship, particularly disruption of the wool trade from occupied Tibet, has led the men of Himalayan areas to seek jobs in Indian cities. Women now shoulder a heavy responsibility for both family and livelihood.

Intense cold and high winds prevail outdoors, so handicrafts and Buddhist practice--meditation, teachings, and prayer--are favorite winter activities. The solace of these spiritually-enriching activities helps offset the sufferings of the harsh environment.

Traditionally women's work has centered around the home--spinning, knitting handcrafted clothing, and caring for the family, animals and fields. Women's education and spirituality have also centered around the home. Buddhist culture has flourished here since the 8th century, but there has never been a traditional learning center for women.

In 1985, a group of courageous young women from Pangmo village took the initiative to establish Yangchen Choling, the first school for traditional and contemporary learning especially for women. Originally located in caves above the village, the students are now struggling to build teachers' quarters, classrooms, and student housing with their own hands.

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