Discover the liberating practice of Dentog Chigma Chöd in a profound learning opportunity with Dorje Lopön Charlotte Rotterdam and Lopön Pieter Oosthuizen. Join us in person at Tara Mandala, Colorado, or participate online.

The dynamic and transformative practice of Dentog Chigma, “liberation on one seat,” combines the melodic and rhythmic aspects of traditional Chöd with the visualization and mantra recitation of Tibetan Buddhist deity practice. The practitioner engages with various forms of Machig Labdrön – including a wrathful emanation – through purification, receiving blessings, radiant compassion, and ultimately the awareness of our inseparability from the ground of being. As such, it is an incredibly dynamic and transformative practice.

Dentog Chigma Chöd is the main sadhana practice within the Rinchen Trengwa, “Precious Garland,” the collection of practices in Machig’s kama (Tib. oral) lineage compiled in the 14th century by Karmapa Rangjung Dorje and Karma Chakme.

Lama Tsering Wangdu Rinpoche transmitted this specific practice, and according to Lama Tsultrim Allione, it is “at the absolute core of Machig’s lineage.”

In this retreat, you will have the opportunity to:

• Receive the reading transmission (Tib. lung) and teachings required to do the Dentog Chigma Chöd practice.
• Learn how to practice the Dentog Chigma Chöd sadhana

Who should attend? 

• This retreat is open to all. However, we highly recommend that you have previous experience with any Chöd practice (ideally with the Chöd of Chögyal Namkhai Norbu, next offered May 29-31, 2026. These teachings are also available as a self-paced program.
• We particularly encourage having prior experience with playing a Chöd drum.
• This is a required retreat for the Magyu: The Mother Lineage Program.

What to Bring?

• A Chöd drum, bell & vajra, and kangling, all of which are available through our Dakini Store. Note: it is not required that you have all of these items upon attending the retreat, however, eventually they are necessary to do the full practice.
• Optional: To enhance your practice, we’ve curated a special bundle for this retreat with items from our Dakini Store. This is a wonderful way to support Tara Mandala. See the Chöd practice support collection for additional resources that may support your retreat. 

Program Fees

Program Tuition (Colorado & Online)
$685 Standard Tuition
$495 Community Supported Tuition

Room & Board (Colorado)
$75 Commuting
$100 Camping
$125 Dorm Yurt
$200 Prajna Double Twin
$350 Prajna Single Queen

Tentative Schedule
The schedule provides an overview of the retreat’s flow. The sequence of activities and timing may be adjusted before and during the retreat. All times are Mountain Daylight Time. Please use this link to view how this daily schedule is translated into your time zone.

In-Person Schedule

Friday, September 25,  2026
5:00 pm Orientation
6:00 pm Dinner & Karma Yoga
8:00 pm Opening Gathering

Saturday, September  26 to Tuesday, September 29, 2026
7:00 am Morning Practice
8:00 am Breakfast & Karma Yoga
10:00 am Teaching Session
1:00 pm Lunch & Karma Yoga
3:30 pm Teaching Session
6:00 pm Dinner & Karma Yoga
8:00 pm Evening Practice

Wednesday, September 30, 2026
7:00 am Morning Practice
8:00 am Breakfast & Karma Yoga
10:00 am Final Session and Tsog Offering
1:00 pm Lunch & Departure

Online Schedule

Friday, September 25, 2026
8:00 pm MDT Opening Gathering

Saturday, September  26 to Tuesday, September 29, 2026
7:00 am – 7:45 am MDT Morning Practice
10:00 am – 12:45 pm MDT Teaching Session
3:30 pm – 5:45 pm MDT Teaching Session
8:00 pm – 8:30 pm MDT Evening Practice

Wednesday, September 30, 2026
7:00 am – 7:45 am MDT Morning Practice
10:00 am – 12:30 pm MDT Final Session and Tsog Offering

Tara Mandala Pricing Guidelines
As we strive to become an equitable, diverse, and inclusive community, our pricing guidelines aim to serve as a map, inviting each of us to assess the resources that contribute to our access to precious dharma teachings. While we do ask you to look inward, please know there is no right or wrong answer. We encourage you to select the range/rate appropriate to your circumstances. To learn more about Tara Mandala’s pricing guidelines for Online Programs, In-Person Retreats, and Special Promotions, please visit this page.

Financial Aid
Tara Mandala offers scholarships as a resource for anyone with financial limitations. For more information and to apply, visit our Scholarships and Financial Assistance Page.

Offering dana to the Teacher
The practice of offering dana, meaning “generosity,” is the traditional offering that the student makes to the teacher as a symbol of appreciation, gratitude, and reciprocity for receiving the precious teachings. Information on offering dana to the teacher will be provided during the program. To learn more about dana and suggested dana ranges, please click here.

The suggested dana range for this retreat is $100-$300

Online Programs Cancellation and Refund Policy

Onsite Programs Cancellation and Refund Policy

Health and Safety Protocols for In-Person Retreats

Mental Health Disclaimer
While Tara Mandala offers profound Buddhist teachings and a supportive spiritual community, we do not provide mental health services, and our teachers are not operating as mental health professionals. Spiritual guidance provided by a Tara Mandala teacher is not a substitute for professional mental health support. We honor the importance of mental well-being and encourage community members seeking support to connect with licensed professionals in their local area. For immediate assistance with mental health concerns, please contact your local crisis resources or emergency services.