Flat Preloader Icon

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I come and stay at Vajrapani to do a self-retreat?

Yes.  We provide 7 different private retreat cabins. Details and information can be found here.

Is it possible to stay extra nights before or after a group retreat?
If you would like to extend your stay before or after a retreat, our private cabins can be booked (a minimum of 3 nights). However staying extra nights in our lodge is not possible.

Can I arrive at Vajrapani early on the day my private or group retreat starts?

 Yes.  You are welcome to arrive early; however, the retreat staff will not be ready to check you in until 3:00pm.  We do not have secure luggage storage facilities for those arriving early.  You may bring your luggage to the main building and leave it on the patio, or if it is raining, you may tuck it inside the building’s foyer.  You may explore the land while you wait.

Is there a number where I can be reached in case of an emergency during the retreat?

Yes.  If you need to be reached during the retreat, the main office number is (800) 531-4001.  Staff are available from 9:30am – 5:00pm daily.  Please leave a message and know that it may take some time to get a message to you (the retreatant).  Please let people know that this number should only be used in case of an emergency.

What is a retreat commuter?

Retreat commuters attend the full group retreat including all meals, but are not provided with overnight accommodations.  If a commuter option is available, it will be posted on the website.

What does “fragrance-free” mean?

 Since many people have allergies, asthma and other chemical sensitivities to common chemicals and fragrances, we ask that all participants who attend a retreat to please refrain from wearing scented products.  Many have difficulty breathing, suffer from headaches and migraines, or experience flu-like symptoms. In order to make Vajrapani accessible to all we ask people to avoid the following items/products:

  • Cologne, aftershave and perfume
  • Hairspray or strong scented hair products
  • Fabric softeners, strong scented laundry detergents
  • Essential oils

What is the policy on drugs and alcohol?

Vajrapani is a drug and alcohol free center.  Following the guidelines of the Buddha, we understand intoxicants to be substances that have the potential to “cloud the mind and cause heedlessness.”  To maintain the safety of our communal practice environment we request that all participants be free from the influence of intoxicants while on campus.  This includes alcohol, cannabis as well as psychedelics and other state-altering substances, but does not include prescribed psychiatric medications which practitioners should keep taking as usual.

Vajrapani is not an appropriate place for the therapeutic or spiritual use of psychedelics or other intoxicants or sacred substances.  We recognize the value these practices hold for some in our community and agree with the guidelines from many traditions on “set and setting” that make a communal retreat environment like Vajrapani unsuitable for these practices.

Health and Medications
For your safety, a retreat is not the time to start, stop, or change any medications, or to begin detoxing from recreational drugs or alcohol. Doing so can be dangerous and may interfere with your retreat experience. Please ensure your health is stable and follow the guidance of your healthcare provider before attending.

If I have food allergies or dietary restrictions can the retreat center accommodate them?

Our kitchen serves healthy vegetarian and vegan meals and can accommodate soy-free and gluten-free options upon request. Please be sure to note any dietary restrictions or allergies on your registration form. For more severe dietary concerns, we offer a simple rice and vegetable meal option. If you have life-threatening allergies, please contact the office directly to discuss arrangements.

What is your cancellation policy?

  • Deposit & Payment: A 50% deposit secures your reservation. 
  • Cancellation More Than 14 Days Before Retreat: Your deposit will be refunded, minus a $50 cancellation fee. 
  • Cancellation 14 Days or Less Before Retreat: 50% of the total retreat fees will be refunded.
  • No Refunds: Cancellations on the retreat start date or no-shows are not refunded.

Donations: Donations made during registration are non-refundable unless requested at the time of cancellation.

Institute-Cancelled Retreats: If Vajrapani Institute cancels a retreat (e.g., due to low registration of fewer than 10 participants), you will be notified at least two weeks in advance and offered a full refund.

Instructor Changes: If the scheduled instructor cannot lead, we will try to provide a replacement. You may attend with the replacement instructor or receive a full refund.

Pay-It-Forward Retreat Cancellation Policy

A $200 deposit reserves your space.

No refunds for cancellations or early departures.

Deposits are refundable only if you attend the full retreat.

If I forget something can staff go to town and pick it up for me?

Our staff will not be able to run personal errands should you forget something important.  Vajrapani is 25 minutes away from the nearest small town.  Please pack carefully and wisely. Please note, that our PO Box cannot be used to mail personal items to yourself before or during your retreat – thank you,

Do you have laundry facilities at our center?

 No.  We do not have laundry facilities at the center.  If you are staying for a long retreat (over 14 days), arrangements can be made with the office to send your laundry out.  Be advised that there is a $25 service charge in addition to any laundromat charges and fees.

What should I bring with me for a stay at Vajrapani Institute?

 Essential Items:

 Those staying in shared or semi-private dorms need to bring a sleeping bag or blankets. Sheets and pillows are provided. Those staying in private rooms or cabins will have all bedding provided.

  • Flashlight (separate from your cell phone flashlight)
  • Mosquito repellant
  • Towel
  • Toiletries (soap, shampoo, toothbrush, toothpaste, etc.)
  • Comfortable walking or hiking shoes
  • Cozy indoor slippers or shoes
  • Warm jacket

What kind of electrical devices can I bring with me?

 Our electricity is generated by solar panels which are not strong enough to support appliances with heating elements.  These appliances are harmful to the system and may ultimately shut down the power to the whole center.  For this reason, APPLIANCES WITH A HEATING ELEMENT ARE PROHIBITED.  The following are a list of items that are prohibited:

  • Hair dryers and curling irons
  • Electric blankets
  • Heating pads
  • Space Heaters
  • Electric kettles
  • Blenders and juicers
  • Anything with a heating element or high amp usage

Acceptable items:

  • Laptop computers
  • Personal audio players
  • Cell phone chargers
  • Cpap machines

 

How do I get to the center?  Can I take public transport?

Detailed directions and public transport information can be found at Our Location