Rinchen Trengwa Practice Retreat

The Rinchen Trengwa, or Garland of Jewels, occupies a distinctive place within Machig Labdrön’s Chöd lineage. Compiled from oral sources by the 3rd Karmapa Rangjung Dorje at a time when the transmission of Machig Labdrön’s lineage was beginning to lose authenticity, this practice cycle preserved the heart of the tradition with remarkable care. Rangjung Dorje distilled its essence and presented it as the core of all Vajrayana vehicles, while also distinguishing it in its own right. It remains an unbroken oral lineage of transmission from teacher to student, tracing directly back to Machig Labdrön.

Our community is honored to uphold the Rinchen Trengwa, its daily practice (Dentog Chigma), and its Chöd Cham through our longstanding relationship with the tradition’s sworn protectors: the nuns, monks, yoginis, and yogins of Druk Zangri Khamar. This small community of Vajrayana practitioners descends from a group of thirty Tibetan emigrés who came from Zangri Khamar in Tibet, the seat of Machig Labdrön. In 1952, they arrived in Bhutan to protect their spiritual heritage from the destruction that would soon affect their country, culture, and religious life.

Our connection with this sangha has been deepened through a series of pilgrimages to Bhutan. During these journeys, we received instruction in the musical, ritual, and dance traditions from Lama Rigdzin Longyang Rinpoche and the lopöns of Druk Zangri Khamar. Lama Rigdzin Longyang entrusted us with these teachings and with the responsibility of carrying the lineage forward in the West.

We invite you to become part of this jewel garland that reaches back to Machig herself. This practice retreat is intended for those who received the Rinchen Trengwa empowerment at Tara Mandala’s 30th Anniversary celebration, or who took part in the pilgrimages to Druk Zangri Khamar. Either of these qualifies. If you feel a connection to these practices but do not meet the requirements, please contact the Registrar.

Installment Payment Plan Option at Registration

We recognize that financial circumstances vary, and Tara Mandala seeks to make its programs as accessible as possible. At registration, participants may pay the full program fee or choose the Installment Payment Plan. Those selecting the installment option will pay a 25% deposit at registration, with the remaining balance automatically divided into equal monthly payments. The final payment is due 14 days before the program begins. If enrollment happens close to the start date, additional arrangements may be made. For questions or special requests, the Finance Team is available to assist.

Tara Mandala Pricing Guidelines

As part of our commitment to an equitable, diverse, and inclusive community, our pricing guidelines are designed as a guide, inviting each participant to reflect on the resources that support access to precious dharma teachings. There is no right or wrong answer. We encourage you to choose the range or rate that best fits your circumstances. For more information about Tara Mandala’s pricing guidelines for Online Programs, In-Person Retreats, and Special Promotions, please visit the appropriate page.