The Highest Yoga Tantra practice of Vajrayogini is especially effective in “degenerate times” as it skillfully cuts through ignorance and cultivates profound wisdom, love, and compassion. We are so fortunate that His Eminence Gyumed Khensur Rinpoche Lobsang Jampa will return to Vajrapani Institute from October 7 to 11, 2026, to bestow the Highest Yoga Tantra Vajrayogini initiation and commentary.
This sacred initiation and commentary offers a rare and precious opportunity for practitioners who are prepared to wholeheartedly engage in the profound practices of Highest Yoga Tantra.
This program is in-person only.
Prerequisites and Highest Yoga Tantra requirements
- Have taken Refuge in the three jewels
- Have Mahayana intention inspired by Bodhicitta, and faith in the Vajrayana
- Have previously received at least one of the following Highest Yoga Tantra empowerments: Kalachakra, Yamantaka, Heruka, Guhyasamaja and Hevajra.
How to Apply
To apply for the Vajrayogini Initiation, please verify your previous highest yoga tantra initiation by using this application form.
Commitments
During the initiation, Rinpoche will determine any specific commitments. Please be prepared to take on daily commitments as part of your practice.
Tentative schedule will be posted closer to the event
Registration Closes
September 30, 2026
Fees (vary by accommodation)
Commuting – $380.00
Camping – $488.00
RV/Camper Van – $528.00
Women’s Dorm – $600.00
Men’s Dorm – $600.00
Women’s Quad – $804.00
Men’s Quad – $804.00
Private Room- Twin Bed – $1,056.00
Private Room- Double bed – $1,056.00
Private Cabin #1 – “Vajrapani” – $1,172.00
Private Cabin #2 – “Chenrezig” – $1,172.00
Private Cabin #3 – “Vajrayogini” – $1,172.00
Private Cabin #4 – “Chakrasamvara” – $1,172.00
Private Cabin #5 – “Tara” – $1,172.00
Private Cabin #6 – “Yamantaka” – $1,172.00
Most Secret Cabin – $1,336.00
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.
