Retreat cabins at Tara Mandala provide a rare and precious opportunity to be completely secluded and alone in a remote mountain setting. Here you are free to maintain intensive practice and connect with your innermost being. The retreat cabins have been created through the loving kindness, generosity, and hard labor of many people.
Currently we have five cabins: Karuna, Ratna, Luminous Peak, Two Trees, and Senge Rangdröl. All of our cabins are well suited for year-round practice, as they are completely insulated and have small wood-burning stoves. The cabins do not contain telephones, and most cell-phones will not pick up a signal. Some cabins have limited solar electricity. The cabins contain a single bed, pillow, blankets, water catchment, kitchen with gas stove and cooking supplies, and small solar shower bag. In addition, a meditation mat and cushion, oil lanterns, and altar space are provided. Remember that our facilities are rustic. All four cabins have an outhouse.
You must provide your own food, bedding (sheets and pillowcase) and practice materials. In winter, it is essential in the mountain climate to bring warm outdoor clothes. You may also want to bring cross-country skis or snowshoes in case of heavy snowfall–which is common-for exploration of the land.
Individual Cabin Descriptions
Karuna
Karuna is our newest cabin nestled into the south side of our northern most ridge on the land. This 200 square foot wood cabin has sweeping mountain views, with Ekajati Peak and the Tara Shrine in the foreground. Large windows provide a light-filled space during the day and the excellent insulation and high quality Jøtul wood stove provide for warm nights even in the deep winter. The wraparound, hardwood deck is a great place for yoga or meditation, and a covered portion protects firewood. Inside, the cabin holds a twin bed, altar and altar table, and kitchen. A water catchment provides washing water year round. Wildlife abounds. Secluded and serene, Karuna facilitates inner stillness and is an ideal retreat location. Access to Karuna requires a 1/3 mile walk uphill.
Ratna
Ratna, our largest and most remote cabin, faces south into the ‘secret valley’. The spaciousness of the view is matched with the roominess of the interior of the cabin. There are large windows on three walls, featuring sweeping views of the South and West. With a floor area of about 350 square feet, there is plenty of room inside for yoga, tai chi, and other movement meditations. Meditation seats face a full length window with a view of the valley (perfect for mornings or just after sunset), and more face towards the altar. There is a fully functional rain catchment system which provides washing water, a sink which drains to the outside, a twin bed, a kitchen with four burner stove and oven, limited solar electricity, and a large wood stove which heats the cabin easily–even during the cold winter months. The cabin is notable for the unparalleled silence and solitude, far removed from the world. Access to Ratna requires a 1/2 mile walk downhill.
Luminous Peak
Luminous Peak is our smallest cabin, around 150 square feet, with the most vast and open views. The stunning views facing south and west feature incredible sunsets over the distant ridges in New Mexico. Chimney Rock; a sacred Native American site is visible 20 miles away, and the La Plata mountains (60 miles away) can be seen on clear days. Luminous Peak has a twin bed, a water catchment, limited solar electricity, a two burner propane stove, a hardwood deck, and an outhouse. Cozy and serene, Luminous Peak is an extremely supportive practice and retreat space. Access to Luminous Peak requires a 1/8 mile walk on flat ground.
Singe Rangdrol
description coming soon
Two Trees
description coming soon
Rental Fees
Retreat cabins may be rented for a minimum of two nights, and a maximum of a number of years with the permission of an authorized teacher. Rates are based on length of rental. Retreat fees cover cabin rental, fuel (wood and propane), retreatant care (weekly shopping for retreats of more than one week in length), and various supplies. Food is not provided.
2 Nights (minimum stay*) = $70/night
3-5 Nights = $50/night
6-28 Nights = $40/night
28 Nights or more = $700/month ($23/night)
*Minimum stay time varies due to weather, and can be as long as one week during winter months.
Deposit and Cancellation Policy
For retreats of less than one month in length, a deposit equal to half of your total retreat fee is due at the time of registration to hold your place. For retreats of longer than one month in length, a deposit equal to 30% of your total retreat fee is due at the time of registration to hold your place. The balance is due 30 days before the start of your retreat.
For retreats shorter than three months, cancellations received at least two months prior to retreat start date receive a refund of the deposit minus a $50 fee. For retreats longer than three months, cancellations received at least two months prior to retreat start date receive a refund of the deposit minus a $200 fee. For all retreats, cancellations received between one and two months prior to the retreat start date receive a refund of 50% of their deposit. Except for emergencies, no refunds of the deposit can be made for cancellations received less than one month prior to retreat start date.
Arrival
Check-in time is between 11:00 am and 1:00 pm. Late arrivals must be prearranged. The Tara Mandala retreat coordinator will greet you on your arrival, assist you in filling out required paperwork, and escort you to the retreat cabin for orientation. The long dirt driveways that lead to the cabins require a vehicle with high clearance and four wheel drive; if you do not have such a vehicle, we will shuttle you (weather permitting) to your cabin.
The driveways into the cabins are rough and unfinished dirt roads that range in length from 1/4 to 1/2 mile. The driveways are not passable by car during snow cover, and can not be driven during or directly following a rain storm, as the mud is very slick. Depending on unpredictable weather conditions, you may be required to hike your gear into the cabin. In case of severe rain or late arrival, you may be required to delay your check-in, in which case we will accommodate you in our residence hall (space permitting) or assist you in finding lodging in town.
Preparation
Preparation for a solitary retreat is essential. This can include mental, emotional, social and practical details. It is helpful to schedule a portion of the beginning and end of your retreat for transition time. Because you are totally secluded, it is important to have everything you need before beginning. Let those close to you know you will be out of touch; emergency messages can be delivered by your retreatant care person. We do not recommend a retreat of more than one week if you have not done solitary retreat before.
Provided Items
Propane, wood, one comforter, pillows, meditation mat and cushion, altar table, lantern and oil, kitchenware (including pots and pans), propane stove, small first-aid kit, cleaning supplies, drinking water, ax, matches, shovels
Packing List
Suggested personal items:
Twin sheets and pillowcase Layered clothing
Extra blankets or sleeping bag Boots and slippers
Sturdy hiking boots Rain/snow gear
Practice materials Candles (votive or pillar)
Flashlight and extra batteries Bath and dish towels
Backpack Incense
Camera
Cash or credit card for groceries (if necessary)
Toiletries including biodegradable soap
Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses (even in winter)
Suggested Food Items:
• Dried fruit • Crackers • Nut butters
• Oil/vinegar • Jam • Pasta
• Granola/oats • Butter/ghee • Spices
• Coffee/tea • Nuts/seeds • Canned or dried soup
• Dehydrated food • Ice block
• Sweetener • Whole grains (rice, quinoa, oats)
• Cookies/chocolate • Long lasting fresh fruit and vegetables
• Rice/soy milk (especially handy in snack pack size)
• Canned or condensed milk
Food
Please bring enough food to last you one week. For retreats lasting more than one week, it is helpful to bring with you as much non-perishable food as possible.. Generally, camping food that is lightweight, non-perishable, and easy to prepare is ideal. If you are in the cabin for a week or less, shopping is not provided. If your retreat is longer than one week, a shopping service is provided at no additional cost, and a shopping schedule will be arranged when you arrive. Usually we will pick up your shopping list on a Tuesday and bring your groceries/supplies in on a Thursday. Cash or a credit card must be provided to pay for supplies. Please keep in mind that there is no refrigeration; a medium-sized cooler is provided. You must bring ice (we recommend two blocks of ice per week in the summer) if you need refrigeration – we will restock your ice supply on weekly shopping trips. Do not leave food outside because of animals.
Fasting is generally discouraged. If you do intend to fast during any part of your retreat, please note this on your intention form.
Kitchen
Every cabin has slightly different cooking facilities. Karuna and Ratna both have a four-burner gas stove and oven, large sink (Karuna’s drain water must be carried outside), and a variety of cooking and cleaning supplies. A medium sized cooler is provided for refrigerating perishables. In the winter, refrigeration is as easy as filling zip-lock bags with snow. During the rest of the year, ice blocks must be hauled in.
Luminous Peak and Mitakpa have a two-burner gas stove and a variety of cooking and cleaning supplies, as well as a medium-sized cooler.
Altitude
All of our cabins are at an elevation ranging from 7500 – 8000 ft. If you live near sea level, please expect to take 5-10 days to acclimate to the altitude. During this time you may have less energy than usual or experience headaches or body aches. We recommend drinking at least twice as much water as you are used to and taking extra rest as needed.
Winter Realities
During the winter months when there is snow covering the ground it is necessary to hike your gear to the cabin from the main road: approximately 1/4 – 1/2 mile, sometimes uphill. This hike may be strenuous for those coming from sea level or those with a lack of physical fitness. Snow shoes are often necessary. If you have snow shoes, please bring them. If you don’t, please let us know. Call the office to check on current weather conditions. Pack accordingly; a large backpack is preferable to a suitcase. A small sled is also available to haul gear and belongings; closed containers that can be bungeed down are ideal.
During Your Retreat
If this is your first private retreat at Tara Mandala, a support staff will check in with you personally on the second or third day of your retreat. After that, written communication will be checked once a week throughout your stay. If a meditation teacher is available and you would like a teacher to visit you, this may also be arranged upon your arrival. Once you are in the cabin, it is strongly requested that you do not leave the land, but maintain your retreat without visits to town or the office, except in an emergency. In the same way, in order to preserve the quality of silence, it is strongly requested that you do not use a cell phone or play audio with the exception of practice materials you may be using.
Wood Heat
If you’re not familiar with using a wood stove, be sure to ask for instructions on how to keep the stove warm and safe. Wood and an axe will be provided; you may need to make your own kindling. General guidelines include using a lighter wood (such as pine) for kindling and firestarter. You can also collect dead twigs and branches for kindling. After a base of coals has been established, oak may be introduced. Newspaper and plain paper make excellent firestarter. Burning cardboard, colored paperboard (cereal box material), or colored paper is not recommended. When burned, colored inks release toxins. Detailed instructions and a troubleshooting guide to fire building are in the cabins.
Water
All cabins have water catchment systems. This water can be used for washing but not for drinking. Drinking water will be in the cabin when you arrive and can be replenished as necessary on weekly shopping runs. Tara Mandala provides filtered drinking water from the land which nonetheless has a high mineral content. You may bring bottled water if you prefer.
Bathing
The solar shower has directions written on it. Fill the bag with water and leave it out in the sun to warm up. You can then hang the bag from a tree or overhang. Test the temperature before getting under it, as it can get very hot.
Outhouse
All of our retreat cabins have a private outhouse.
Electricity
Karuna and Mitakpa do not have solar electricity. Ratna and Luminous Peak both have limited solar electricity. This is adequate for powering a laptop or charging an mp3 player, but high wattage appliances will not work.
Recycling
Pagosa Springs has limited recycling. We recycle plastic bottles that are labeled #1 or #2, all glass, tin, aluminum, and corrugated cardboard. Most paper and magazines are also recyclable, not including paperboard (cereal box material), telephone books, waxed paper, paper towels, tissues, paper plates/cups, and dark or fluorescent paper. Pagosa also does not recycle plastic bags. Place recycling in sorted bins in our trash room when you leave. We encourage you to limit your trash output as much as possible, and take any materials Pagosa Springs can not recycle home with you if your local recycling program is more inclusive.
Keep in Mind
What to remember while on retreat:
• Keep garbage can firmly closed and indoors at all times
• Do not leave food lying around outside (even scraps) to keep from encouraging rodents, bears, etc.
• Do not leave shower bag hanging with water unless you are using it
• Never leave candles unattended
• Do not leave mattresses outside in case of sudden storms
Small animals and insects
Love them–they are sentient beings. If by chance a bird, mouse, or squirrel does get in, just open the doors and windows. By dusk it is sure to find its way out; animals move towards light and fresh air in the evening. Insects (flies in particular) do this as well. Insects like wasps that you’d rather get rid of immediately can be caught in a drinking glass against a window. Slide a piece of paper under the glass and carry it out.
Snakes and other wild animals like bears and lions
Remember, they will only engage with you if they feel threatened. Wear boots if you walk off the trail. If you’re lucky enough to see one, don’t go near a snake or bear, etc. Stand still, back off slowly and send it away with blessings.
Bears in particular have been more active in our area due to unusual weather patterns and a long drought. If a bear comes looking for food near your cabin, you can encourage it to leave by creating a loud noise such as an air horn or whistle, both of which are in the cabins. Never leave your cabin doors or windows open while away. If you are hiking, it is a good idea to make noise while you are hiking by clapping or hollering along the way. If you do see a bear, back away slowly. Do not turn and run, as it can be perceived as threatening.
Although rarely seen, mountain lions are native to the land. If you encounter one, stay calm and maintain visual contact with the lion. Talk calmly yet firmly to it and make enough eye contact so that it knows you have seen it. Slowly back away, but stay upright and facing the lion. Running may stimulate a lion’s instinct to chase and attack. Raise your arms and position yourself to appear bigger by getting up on a stump or a rock and opening your jacket if you’re wearing one. Similar to when you see a bear, a loud, sustained noise will often drive the animal away. It is a good idea to bring an air horn and a walking stick with you while hiking.
Coyotes are common, and hearing packs hoot and howl around dusk is a regular occurrence. Coyotes have a natural fear of humans, and generally do not pose a threat to us.
Spiritual Guidance
If you would like an interview (private meeting) with Lama Tsultrim while you are on retreat, please request this at the time of your reservation. Lama Tsultrim is not always available for interviews.
Weather
Tara Mandala is located in the foothills of the San Juan mountains at 7500 – 8000 feet. The year-round weather varies tremendously. We recommend checking a weather website (look for a trip planner) to learn about weather patterns for the time you are in retreat. The coldest months of the year are December and January, with highs in the 10’s – 30’s and lows below zero. Snow cover is typical December – mid-March, and large storms of up to 3 feet of snow are not unheard of. We have over 300 sunny days per year. Summer months are warm, with highs in the 80’s and lows in the 50’s. Afternoon thunderstorms are common in August and September.
Emergencies
In case of emergency, you may use the phone in the upstairs office of the main building to dial 911. Pagosa Springs has EMT, ambulance and air lift services. The nearest fully equipped hospital is Pagosa Mountain Hospital, located in Pagosa Springs, about a 30 minute drive from the cabin.
As You Depart
Please review and complete the check-out form before you depart. You will receive this form when you arrive on the land. We welcome your comments and feedback on your retreat experience.
After you finish your retreat you may consider offering a donation to Tara Mandala for the continued maintenance of the retreat cabins and general support of our mission. Tara Mandala is a non-profit organization, and our lifeblood is the donations of those who are inspired to support us. Please also consider becoming a member of Tara Mandala by joining our Sustaining Sangha. For your monthly donation of any amount, you will receive Words of Wisdom, a weekly email of Tsultrim’s favorite quotations from Wisdom Teachers. At $30/month or more, you will receive discounts (10-20%) on all Tara Mandala sponsored retreats in the U.S. Details are available on our website.
Please visit our Retreat Cabin Page for information on how to register
