Dharma Vijaya Buddhist Vihara was founded on April 20, 1980. The main support for the Vihara came from a group of Sri Lankan Buddhists. Since its inception, the Vihara has been maintained by Sri Lankan, other Asian and Western Buddhists, plus non-Buddhist friends of diverse national and cultural backgrounds.

Local American and Asian communities continue to support the Vihara. Venerable monks from Sri Lanka conduct the day-to-day activities and render guidance for those seeking the services of the Vihara..

• Religious Services.

  Monks begin the day at 6 A.M. with services in the shrine room. First, there are offerings to the Buddha, then a recitation of a sutta invoking blessings for the world, and finally a meditation on loving-kindness that extends good will and harmony to all beings...

• Meditation.

  On Tuesdays and Fridays, 7 to 8 PM, instruction in meditation is given to beginners as well as those more experienced. Meditation is followed by a Dhamma talk based upon the teachings of the Buddha. From time to time, weekend intensive retreats are organized. On the first Sunday of each month, a one-day retreat is held form...

• Social Welfare.

  Dharma Vijaya has been part of the social fabric of Los Angeles helping whenever it can. During the Los Angeles riots, there was conflict between African Americans, Koreans and others. The monks were involved trying to bring the groups together, fostering mutual understanding of their cultural differences...