October 9th - 11th, 2026
This immersive retreat offers a rare opportunity to explore the lives of Buddhism’s earliest women through storytelling, reflection, and group discussion. Drawing on early Mahayana and Pali texts, it brings forward the voices of the first generation of Buddhist women—mothers, wives, consorts, laywomen, and monastic disciples—whose courage and insight helped shape the Buddhadharma from its beginnings.
For too long, Buddhist women, especially laywomen, have had few role models highlighted in the tradition’s history. This retreat invites practitioners from all Buddhist schools to engage with a more complete and gender-balanced understanding of Buddhism’s origins. The stories shared here reveal how these women navigated the patriarchal norms of their time with skillful means, determination, and deep commitment to the Dharma—challenges that continue to resonate for Buddhist women today.
As participants listen, reflect, and exchange perspectives, the retreat will open space for personal and contemporary meaning-making. Together, the group will consider the spiritual legacy of these foremothers and how their wisdom can offer guidance in responding to today’s difficult and unjust world.
Discussions will also include a lecture on the historic 9-day pilgrimage led by Wendy in 2023 with Jetsunma Tenzin Palmo, In the Footsteps of Gautami and the First Buddhist Women. This journey followed sacred sites in Nepal, Buddhism’s “Motherland,” and continued to Vaishali, India, where the Buddha gave permission for women to ordain as nuns.
Buddhists of any experience level, from all traditions and all genders, are warmly welcome. This retreat is for anyone who wants to connect more deeply with Buddhist history and discover the fuller picture it offers.
Through storytelling and discussion, participants will develop a deeper appreciation for the courage and wisdom of women at the very beginning of Buddhism. As witnesses to the Buddha’s lifetime and the birth of the tradition, these women are pre-sectarian foremothers to all Buddhist schools and deserve to be remembered and honored today.
Rigden Lodge hosts some programs in the Rigden Shrine Room, with a spacious common area nearby for tea, conversation, or quiet relaxation. Programs may continue in the Shrine Room until 10:30 pm each night. Guests can also enjoy a large deck area with space for yoga, meditation, or simply taking in the mountain views.
Several accommodation options are available during checkout, and all include healthy meals and drinks, with V, VG, and GF options.
Retreat faculty will guide participants through the retreat’s teachings, discussions, and reflections.
Drala Mountain Center
Price
On request
Please contact the organizer directly for pricing information
Fri, Oct 9 – Mon, Oct 12