The Gateway to Dzogchen

Within the Longchen Nyingthig tradition, Jigme Lingpa’s Yeshe Lama is a key Dzogchen manual, typically undertaken after completing the Ngöndro. Orgyen Khakhyab Lingpa previously taught this text at Tara Mandala for three consecutive years, and many students have longed for its return. Now, with Rinpoche’s blessing and guidance, we are pleased to offer the second year of these profound teachings.

Lama Rigzin Drolma, Lama Namgyal Dorje, and Tulku Ösel Dorje will lead this retreat.

Who Can Attend?

This retreat is open by invitation only to students in Orgyen Khakhyab Lingpa’s lineage who have completed their Ngöndro accumulations. (Some exceptions may be made for those actively engaged in this practice.)

If you did not attend Year One of the Yeshe Lama retreat in 2025 or received approval from the teachers to attend Year Two, please do not register. Instead, contact Jigme Khandro Noble at registrar@taramandala.org to discuss your aspirations.

Retreat Highlights

• Continue the Path: Advance your study of the Yeshe Lama, a rare and powerful gateway to the heart essence of luminous Dzogpa Chenpo.
• Immersive Practice: Engage in outdoor meditation following the special oral lineage of Orgyen Khakhyab Lingpa.
• Expert Guidance: Receive instruction from some of Orgyen Khakhyab Lingpa’s senior-most students in the West.

This retreat is a rare and historic opportunity to gather and practice together. It has been nearly 20 years since these teachings were last practiced communally in this way. Now, Rinpoche has made it clear: this is the time.

Schedule

• Arrival: Please arrive between 2:00 PM and 4:00 PM MDT on the first day of the retreat.
• Departure: The retreat concludes after lunch at approximately 1:00 PM MDT on the final date.
• Daily Schedule: The detailed daily practice schedule will be provided by the teachers upon your arrival

Program Fees

Tuition
$1,225  Standard Tuition
$895  Community Supported Tuition

Room and Board
$165 Commuting
$220 Camping
$275 Dorm Yurt
$440 Prajna Double Twin
$770 Prajna Single Queen

Learn more about available financial assistance options and apply for a scholarship here.

Installment Plans
Understanding that everyone’s financial situation is different, Tara Mandala aims to make programs as accessible as possible. During registration, participants have the option to either pay the program fee in full or select the Installment Payment Plan. For those choosing the installment plan, a 25% deposit is required at registration, with the remaining balance automatically divided into equal monthly payments. The final payment is due 14 days before the program begins. If retreat enrollment occurs close to the start date, additional arrangements can be made. For any questions or special requests, the Finance Team is ready to assist at care@taramandala.org.

Offering dana to the Teacher
The practice of offering dana, which means “generosity,” is the traditional offering 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 for this program is $220 – $660.

Tara Mandala Pricing Guidelines
As we work to become an equitable, diverse, and inclusive community, our pricing guidelines are intended to be a map, inviting each of us to take inventory of 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.

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.