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Date
Thursday 27 to Sunday 30 August
Time
Thursday: 9am to 6pm
Friday: 9am to 8pm
Saturday: 10am to 5pm
Sunday: 12 to 5pm
Location
Mortlock Chamber
Cost
Free, bookings not required
Questions?
For any questions regarding the event, please reach out to the SALA Office:
Phone: 70770011
Email: office@salafestival.com
Our partners

You’re invited to witness Tibetan monks spend four days meticulously placing millions of grains of coloured sand to create a sacred Tibetan sand mandala, following a tradition practised for centuries. This authentic Tibetan Buddhist practice is rarely witnessed outside a monastery.

Far more than a work of art, the mandala is regarded as a sacred space for meditation, blessing and transformation. Every line, colour and geometric form carries symbolic meaning, representing aspirations for peace, compassion and the wellbeing of all beings.

Within Tibetan Buddhist tradition, simply viewing a sacred mandala is believed to create positive karmic imprints, inspiring compassion, wisdom and inner peace.

This unique event is free and open to everyone, with no cost or prior knowledge of Tibetan Buddhism required.

Buddhist Monks designing mandala

How do I get to the State Library by public transport?

The 'State Library, Art Gallery, Museum' tram-stop is just outside the State Library. There are bus stops close by, near the War Memorial on North Terrace. The closest train station is the Adelaide city station on North Terrace.

You can plan your journey via Adelaide Metro.

Is there car parking near the State Library?

The nearest car park is Wilson's Adelaide Central car park, 225 North Terrace, next to David Jones.

There is paid street parking along Kintore Ave and Victoria Drive.

Where is the wheelchair and stroller access?

Access to the Spence Wing first floor and the Mortlock Chamber is via the lift in the glass foyer entrance of the library.

Access to the Institute Building is via the external ramp on the Kintore Ave entrance or via the internal ramp between the Institute Building and the Spence Wing (opposite the Treasures Wall).

There is on-street accessible parking available close to the State Library. View more information and maps of City of Adelaide's Accessible parking options.

How do I check if the Mortlock Chamber is open when I plan to visit?

The Mortlock Chamber may close for private events, check our opening hours for any closure times.

When it is open you can visit the Mortlock Chamber on the ground floor to look at the exhibition bays. The upper levels of the Mortlock Wing include study areas.

Is there a cafe at the State Library?

Yes, the Library Cafe is open Monday to Friday from 8am to 4pm and Saturdays from 10am to 4pm.

Find out more about the cafe and resident organisations at the State Library.