Awakening Innate Wisdom

The Twenty-One Dzogchen Meditations with Tulku Pema Khandro

Hybrid Retreat: San Diego and Online

Online: Aug 6-9
In-Person: Aug 6-10
Vajra Sangha Members: Aug 5-11

In-Person Register Here
Online Register Here
Vajra Sangha In-Person
Click Here to Access Course Materials (Registration Required)

This retreat provides a rare opportunity to receive authentic guidance in these essential Dzogchen methods within a supportive environment conducive to deep practice. Through direct instruction, guided sessions, and periods of integration, participants will learn how these seemingly simple yet profound techniques can cut through ordinary conceptual mind to reveal what has been present from the beginning – one’s own intrinsic wisdom. Join us to explore how the Semdzins—practices not of concentration or fabrication, but of discovery—can open doors to experiencing the natural perfection that is our primordial condition, with practical applications that extend far beyond formal meditation into everyday life.

The goal of Dzogchen meditation is to discover our timeless awareness – rigpa – beyond all limitations. Some people discover the natural state more easily through body, others through energy, others through direct mind practices. This is why we have twenty-one methods, not just one. 

 During this immersive retreat, participants will explore these precise methods—historically transmitted through an unbroken lineage from Garab Dorje to the present day—that serve as gateways to recognizing rigpa, our inherent awareness beyond conceptual elaboration. Whether you’re drawn to practices involving body, energy, or direct mind contemplation, these diverse approaches offer multiple pathways to the same timeless recognition. Come discover the transformative power of the twenty-one semdzins, ancient Dzogchen practices designed to directly introduce practitioners to their natural state of mind.

Spiritual Community

Experience the profound journey of Dzogchen’s twenty-one Semdzins within the powerful container of spiritual community. These ancient “mind-holding” practices—direct methods for recognizing our primordial awareness—flourish when undertaken collectively, where the shared intention and energy of practitioners creates an amplified field that supports each individual’s discovery. In this unique retreat, we honor the traditional understanding that genuine realization is not a solitary achievement but ripens most effectively when cultivated alongside fellow travelers on the path.

Our retreat community becomes a living mandala of practice, where the combined presence and dedication of all participants creates ideal conditions for these transformative methods to take root. Through guided instruction, partner exercises, small group explorations, and collective practice sessions, we’ll discover how these direct approaches to recognizing rigpa deepen through authentic human connection. The traditional Semdzin practices—working with body, energy, and mind—reveal their full potency when experienced within a field of mutual support and shared commitment. Join us to discover how the ancient wisdom of Dzogchen combined with the strength of spiritual community can illuminate your direct experience of natural mind, creating lasting connections that continue to support your practice long after the retreat concludes.

Lineage Holder and Teacher

Pema Khandro is an internationally renowned teacher and scholar of Buddhist philosophy. She is the founder of Ngakpa International and its three projects, The Buddhist Studies Institute, Dakini Mountain and the Yogic Medicine Institute. In her work as a Buddhist teacher she is an authorized Lama and lineage holder of the Nyingma and Kagyu traditions and was enthroned to carry on the lineage of her predecessor, the first Pema Khandro, an early twentieth century yogini from Eastern Tibet. She has led a vibrant world-wide community since 1999. Through the Buddhist Studies Institute, she also offers a complete curriculum of training in Tibetan meditation and Buddhist Philosophy. She has a bachelor’s degree in Sociology, a Master’s degree specializing in Tibetan studies, and a Ph.D. in Buddhist Studies from the University of Virginia. Her scholarly research focuses on the history of Dzogchen and on Women in Tibetan Buddhism.

Retreat Schedule

*Schedule is estimated and subject to change. All times listed in Pacific Time.

Tue Aug 5 – Vajra Sangha Only
4pm Vajra Sangha Member Check-in
5pm – 7pm  Vajra Sangha opening circle with Pema Khandro
7pm – Vajra Sangha Dinner
10pm – Quiet Time

Wed Aug 6
8am Vajra Sangha Breakfast
11am-1pm Vajra Sangha time with Pema Khandro
1pm Vajra Sangha Lunch
4pm General Public Check-in (residential only)
5pm Dinner
6pm – 7:30pm Dzogchen Retreat Opening Ceremony (Hybrid)

Thu Aug 7
8am – Breakfast
10am-1pm Dzogchen Teachings and Meditation (Hybrid)
1pm -2:30pm Lunch
2:30pm – 3:30pm Bliss Yoga (Hybrid)
3:30 – 6pm Dzogchen Teachings and Meditation (Hybrid)
6pm – Dinner
7pm – Free Time
9pm – Quiet Time

Fri Aug 8
8am – Breakfast
10am-1pm Dzogchen Teachings and Meditation (Hybrid)
1pm -2:30pm Lunch
2:30pm – 3:30pm Bliss Yoga (Hybrid)
3:30 – 6pm Dzogchen Teachings and Meditation (Hybrid)
6pm – Dinner
7pm – Free Time
9pm – Quiet Time

Sat Aug 9
8am – Breakfast
10am-1pm Dzogchen Teachings and Meditation (Hybrid)
1pm -2:30pm Lunch
2:30pm – 3:30pm Bliss Yoga (Hybrid)
3:30 – 5pm Closing Ceremony (Hybrid)
6pm – Tsok Fest Celebration Dinner
7pm – Celebration and Talent Show (residential only)
9pm – Quiet Time

Sun Aug 10
8am – Breakfast
10am Check Out (general residents)
12pm Catered Boxed Lunch + Beach Day practice and play
6pm Vajra Sangha Celebration Dinner and Closing Circle

Mon Aug 11 – Vajra Sangha Only
8am – Vajra Sangha Breakfast
10am – Vajra Sangha Final Checkout

In-Person Logistics

All participants must select an accommodation type in order to attend (in addition to registering for the teachings).
Options include: Private or Shared Rooms, Bedroll, Camping, or Commuter.

Accommodations are limited and offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
Please see details below and book early to reserve your spot: [LINK]

Chef-Catered Vegan Meal Plans are available and recommended for ease and nourishment.
Note: Kitchen and refrigerator space will be fully reserved for the caterer.
If you choose not to purchase a meal plan, you may bring non-perishable snacks only. For those camping, please store all food in a sealed container kept in your car to avoid attracting animals.

Meal plans can be booked along with your accommodations.

Lodging Options for Retreat Guests

The Retreat will be held on a 36-acre property in Vista, California, with expansive views. Address given upon registration.

All accommodations are first come, first served, and are available as an add-on during registration. Please review the options below carefully. Photos of rooms and bathrooms shown below.

Click Here to Reserve Your Lodging and Meals

Summary of Lodging Options

Room Bed Type(s) Private Bath? Notes
Bedroom 1 (Dorm) 1 King, 3 Twin Yes Shared dorm-style room with ensuite
Bedroom 2 King Yes Private, luxury suite
Bedroom 3 King Shared (with B7) Private room with attached shared bathroom
Bedroom 6 Queen Public (2 shared baths) Moderate privacy, near campers
Bedroom 7 Queen Shared (with B3) Private room with attached shared bathroom
Bedroom 8 Queen Public (2 shared baths) Moderate privacy, near campers
Camping Bring-your-own tent Public (2 shared baths) 5 close sites, 5 farther sites
Couch Bedroll Couch (in practice room) Public (2 shared baths) Available 9pm–7am only; must vacate by morning

Nightly Rates & Booking Codes

Bed Type / Location Value Per Night Public 4-Night Rate Vajra Sangha 6-Night Rate Booking Code
Master King – Bedroom 2 ★★★★ $220 $880 $1,320 KING-MSTR-B2
King – Bedroom 3 (shared bath) ★★★ $180 $720 $1080 KING-B3
Queen – Bedrooms 6 & 8 (public bath) ★★½ $138 $552 $828 QUEEN-PUB
Queen – Bedroom 7 (shared with B3) ★★★ $165 $660 $990 QUEEN-B7
King in Dorm – Bedroom 1 ★★½ $138 $552 $828 KING-DORM
Twin in Dorm – Bedroom 1 ★★ $110 $440 $660 TWIN-DORM
Couch Bedroll – Practice Room ★ $55 $220 $330 COUCH
Tent (close to retreat area) ¾★ $41 $164 $246 TENT-CLOSE
Tent (farther site) ½★ $28 $112 $168 TENT-FAR

How to Book Your Lodging

When registering for the retreat:

  1. Choose your preferred lodging code from the table above.
  2. Enter the code during checkout in the “Lodging Code” field.
  3. Lodging availability will be confirmed via email.
  4. If your first choice is no longer available, we’ll reach out with alternatives.

BEDROOM 1 – All Gender Master Suite Dorm with Attached Master Bathroom
*Note – Open flow (no doors) between bedroom, bathroom, and closet.
*Note – there is a large closet room that 1-3 of the twin beds may be set up in


BEDROOM 2 – Master Suite with California King 

  • Perfect for a couple’s luxury retreat experience.
  • Massive bathroom with jacuzzi tub and double rainfall shower.
  • Open flow (no doors) between bedroom, bathroom, and closet.
  • May be shared – additional participants will need to be registered for the retreat and bring their own bed-rolls and bedding.

BEDROOM 3 – King Room with Attached Shared Bath 

  • Bath shared with room 7

BEDROOM 6 – Queen Room

  • No attached bathroom. Shared public bathrooms.

BEDROOM 7 – Queen Room with Attached Shared Bath

  • Bathroom shared with Room 3

BEDROOM 8 – Queen Room

  • No attached bathroom. Shared public bathrooms.
  • Has a shared door with All Gender Dorm Room 1 – but the door

PUBLIC SHARED BATHROOMS

Laundry area image 2

CAMP SITES AND CAMPERS BATHROOMS

  • Closer Camp Sites situated directly around the Retreat House
  • Farther Camp Sites in the flattened landing

  • Bathroom and shower is inside the garage
  • Approx 1 minute walk from Close Tent Sites
  • Approx 3-5 minute walk from Farther Tent Sites

Retreat Meals Overview

Click Here to Reserve Your Lodging and Meals

To support your practice and wellbeing, delicious plant-based meals will be available throughout the retreat. All meals are:

  • Vegan (with optional eggs at breakfast)
  • Mostly gluten-free
  • Made with local organic ingredients whenever possible

Please note:
Meals are not included in the price of tuition.
All kitchen and refrigerator space is reserved for the catering team. Participants will not have access to cooking or kitchen facilities.

Campers and residents are welcome to bring non-perishable snacks to keep in their rooms or cars if opting out of the meal plan.

Meal Plan Options?

*Meal packages must be purchased in advance.

General Public Meal Package – $245

Includes Dinner on August 6th through Lunch on August 10th:

  • 5 dinners
  • 4 breakfasts
  • 4 lunches

Vajra Sangha Meal Package – $330

Includes Dinner on August 5th through Breakfast on August 11th:

  • 6 dinners
  • 6 breakfasts
  • 5 lunches

Sample Menu

(Subject to change based on availability of local organic ingredients)

Tuesday

  • Dinner – House-made 25-ingredient veggie burger on a bun with lettuce, tomato, turmeric-apple mayo. Served with rosemary potatoes and salad. ($25)

Wednesday

  • Breakfast – Oatmeal with toppings, fruit, mylks, soft-boiled eggs, coffee & teas ($12)
  • Lunch – Portobello Reuben sandwich with sauerkraut, pickles, and dressing. Seasonal fruit salad ($20)
  • Dinner – Three-bean chili on brown rice, jalapeño cornbread ($25)

Thursday

  • Breakfast – Millet porridge, toppings, fruit, mylks, soft-boiled eggs, coffee & teas ($12)
  • Lunch – C.B.L.A.T. (coconut bacon, lettuce, avocado, tomato sandwich), tomato bisque ($20)
  • Dinner – Dahl curry on brown rice & quinoa with naan bread ($25)

Friday

  • Breakfast – Quinoa porridge with toppings, fruit, mylks, soft-boiled eggs, coffee & teas ($12)
  • Lunch – Burrito with tofu egg, tempeh, avocado, mushroom & potato, seasonal salad ($20)
  • Dinner – Penne alfredo with steamed broccoli, spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, seasonal salad ($25)

Saturday

  • Breakfast – Porridge with toppings, fruit, mylks, soft-boiled eggs, coffee & teas ($12)
  • Lunch – Savory pancakes with chipotle & avocado, Caesar salad ($20)
  • Dinner – Special 3-Course Dinner with Wine for Tsok Feast ($35)
    • Seasonal salad with pepita parmesan
    • Shepherd’s pie with cauliflower mash, maple-glazed sweet potatoes
    • Cinnamon apple cheesecake with lemon cashew cream sauce
    • Red & white wine served

Sunday

  • Breakfast – Millet porridge with toppings, fruit, mylks, soft-boiled eggs, coffee & teas ($12)
  • Lunch (Beach Boxed) – “Full Tank” veggie sandwich with corn chips & salad ($20)
  • Dinner – Special 3-Course Dinner for Vajra Sangha Closing Circle ($30)
    • Sweet potato & kale fritters with ranch
    • Lasagna with Caesar salad & garlic bread
    • Raw tiramisu

What to Pack – Clothing & Attire for Practice and Play

San Diego weather in August can vary—mornings and evenings may be cool, while midday sun can be intense. Please bring layers so you can stay comfortable in all conditions, from crisp early hours to warm afternoons. Think breathable fabrics, light sweaters or shawls, and sun protection.

You’ll want to bring comfortable clothing for both sitting meditation sessions and movement practices—think soft, loose-fitting attire that allows you to shift easily between sitting, standing, gentle yoga and walking meditation. We’ll be spending time both indoors and outdoors, so please plan accordingly.

On Saturday night, we’ll gather for a festive Tsok feast—a celebratory offering practice. This is a beautiful time to dress in your finest spiritual or cultural attire—whatever makes you feel radiant and honors celebratory aspect of the evening.

There is also a jacuzzi on-site, so if you’d like to enjoy a restorative soak under the stars, please bring a swimsuit and towel.

Finally, on Sunday afternoon, we’ll enjoy a casual beach day together. We’ll be sharing Semdzin practices by the sea—so bring beach attire, a towel or blanket to sit on, sun protection, and anything else you need to feel nourished by the ocean environment. This will be a relaxed, joyful closing to our time together.

To help maintain the sacred container of our retreat, all residential participants are invited to contribute a small amount of daily seva—selfless service—as a way to support the wellbeing of the group and the retreat environment. This might include simple tasks such as tidying shared spaces, preparing tea, helping with clearing the practice space, or supporting mealtime logistics. These small acts of mindfulness and care are an integral part of the retreat experience, allowing us to co-create a clean, serene, and harmonious space together.

Seva assignments will be chosen during check-in, and we encourage everyone to select a task that feels both manageable and meaningful. This is a beautiful opportunity to bring practice into action, deepen community connection, and support the retreat in a spirit of generosity and devotion.

What to Bring

  • Yoga mat or something comfortable to lie down on for śavāsana (corpse pose). The floor is tiled, so if you need extra cushion, please bring a blanket, camping pad, or other padding to support your body.

  • Meditation cushion or bench – whatever helps you sit comfortably for extended periods.

  • Journal and pen – for reflections, insights, and integration.

  • Non-perishable snacks – to support your energy between meals. Please choose items that are quiet to eat and easy to store.

  • Water bottle – preferably one with a lid to prevent spills.

  • Toiletries – please bring unscented or naturally-scented personal care products to support a low-fragrance, scent-sensitive environment. This includes items like toothpaste, soap, shampoo, conditioner, deodorant, and menstrual care products.

  • Clothing layers – for shifting temperatures throughout the day (see Clothing & Attire section).

  • Swimsuit and towel – for the jacuzzi or beach.

  • Beach items – such as a sun hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a lightweight towel or blanket for sitting on the sand.

What Not to Bring

  • Candles, incense, or burning resins – open flame is not permitted, and strong scents can be disruptive or triggering to others.

  • Perfumes, essential oils, or heavily scented products – please refrain from bringing any items with strong or synthetic fragrances to support a scent-free environment for those with chemical sensitivities.

  • Alcohol, recreational drugs, or mind-altering substances – this is a sober retreat container.

  • Pets or animals – even well-behaved ones (unless pre-approved service animals).

  • Loud electronics or speakers – please use headphones for any personal listening.

  • Strongly opinionated reading material – to help preserve inner spaciousness and reduce distraction.

Tuition – Dzogchen Retreat: 21 Semdzin

  • In-Person Tuition – August 6-10

  • *Lodging, meals, and dana ($108 suggested) are separate
  • General by 7/29 – $770
  • Late Registration by 8/6 – $845
  • *Member Discounts apply at checkout
  • In-Person Only - Register Here

  • Online-Only Tuition – August 6-9
  • *Dana ($108 suggested) is separate
  • Online General by 7/29 – $595
  • Online Late Registration by 8/6 – $670

  • *Member Discounts apply at checkout
  • Online Only - Register Here

  • Vajra Sangha In-Person Tuition – August 5-11
  • *Lodging, meals, and dana ($108 suggested) are separate
  • General by 7/29 – $870
  • Late Registration by 8/6 – $945

  • *Member Discounts apply at checkout
  • Vajra Sangha In Person - Register Here

Financial Aid Considerations: The course costs are set at a minimum fee already, with financial aid built into all tuition rates. Because we are a non-profit organization, the costs of all activities and overhead of our organization must be covered by the participants of the courses or donations and all courses are offered at below cost. For those who are experiencing genuine financial hardship and wish to enroll in the course for the online version, Financial Aid applications are available. Financial Aid applies only to tuition and cannot be applied to lodging, food, or lama donations. Applications must be received in advance. Programs are always free for monastics.  Financial Aid Application: https://forms.gle/xwYaTamt2autMLKa