“Even if the only Dharma you know is OM MANI PADME HUM, reciting it brings the happiest life…”
— Lama Zopa Rinpoche
Nyung Nae Retreat
Join Ven. Angie in a Nyung Nae retreat, a traditional and powerful purification practice associated with Chenrezig.
The retreat will be during a Merit Multiplying Buddha Day (July 18), when the effects of practice are said to be multiplied 100 million times.
“Nyung Naes take such a short time but bring strong purification. So many eons can be purified in this life; it makes it so easy to have attainments.”
— Lama Zopa Rinpoche
For those wishing to purify deeply and quickly develop the heart and mind to benefit all beings, Nyung Nae offers a profound path. This devotional and intensive practice includes visualization of Chenrezig, recitation of prayers and mantras, and physical prostrations.
Each session lasts approximately three hours. The second day includes fasting (refraining from food and drink) and observing silence.
Key Purpose of the Retreat
To honor its 50th Anniversary, the Foundation for the Preservation of the Mahayana Tradition is undertaking a Global Mani Retreat, beginning on the first day of Saka Dawa month—the month in which the Buddha attained enlightenment—and concluding on Lhabab Duchen.
This retreat is dedicated to His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s long life and to the auspicious return and recognition of Kyabje Lama Zopa Rinpoche.
Participants are invited to contribute to this global effort by reciting and accumulating mani mantras, which will be offered to His Holiness later in the year.
Registration Closes
July 10, 2026
Fees (vary by accommodation)
Commuting – $270.00
Camping – $345.00
RV/Camper Van – $375.00
Women’s Dorm – $426.00
Men’s Dorm – $426.00
Women’s Quad – $570.00
Men’s Quad – $570.00
Private Room- Twin Bed – $735.00
Private Room- Double bed – $735.00
Private Cabin #1 – “Vajrapani” – $825.00
Private Cabin #2 – “Chenrezig” – $825.00
Private Cabin #3 – “Vajrayogini” – $825.00
Private Cabin #4 – “Chakrasamvara” – $825.00
Private Cabin #5 – “Tara” – $825.00
Private Cabin #6 – “Yamantaka” – $825.00
Most Secret Cabin – $945.00
Additional Information
- Check in is between 3:00 and 5:00 PM on the first day of the retreat
- Departing approximately 2:00 PM on the last day of the retreat after the group lunch
- You can see information about our accommodations in the registration process
- FAQ page – helpful information for preparing for a group retreat and living on the land
About Vajrapani Institute
Vajrapani Institute was the first Tibetan Buddhist retreat center established in the United States. For nearly fifty years it has provided a welcoming environment where people from all backgrounds can study and practice the teachings of the Buddha. Located on 70 acres of secluded land in the redwood forests of the Santa Cruz Mountains, Vajrapani Institute offers meditation retreats, teachings, and opportunities for spiritual practice rooted in the Tibetan Buddhist tradition. Its mission is to support the cultivation of wisdom and compassion while helping bridge the gap between intellectual understanding and lived experience.
About Retreat Fees (includes accommodation, 3 meals a day and facility costs)
The retreat registration fee includes accommodations, three nutritious vegetarian meals each day, and general facility and operating costs. Retreat registrations help support the center to keep everything operating, allowing us to invite so many precious teachers, and to hold this sacred space of 70+ acres of secluded redwood forest to allow guests to have the quiet, contemplative space to continue spiritual growth.
Financial Aid/Scholarships
We want to make retreat accessible to everyone. If needed, we are happy to work with you to arrange a payment plan. If additional support is required, a limited number of scholarships are available.
The scholarship application deadline is one month before the retreat begins. Please email office@vajrapani.org to inquire about financial assistance.
Our sincere wish is to make the opportunity for retreat available to as many beings as possible.
Upcoming Retreats
You can also explore other upcoming meditation retreats at Vajrapani Institute by visiting our retreat calendar.
Private Retreats
Looking for a more personal experience? Explore private retreat options at Vajrapani Institute for self-guided time in silence and nature.
History & Lineage
Learn more about the history and lineage that shape the teachings and atmosphere at Vajrapani Institute.
What Participants Are Saying
Many people who have attended retreats at Vajrapani Institute describe the experience as deeply meaningful, peaceful, and transformative.
- Read reviews on Retreat Guru
- Read reviews on Google
