The ability to transfer consciousness into an ex­alted state at the moment of death allows us to live with less fear of dying. P’howa transforms death into an opportunity for liberation rather than it being merely a severance from what we have known and loved in life. It assures us that we won’t die in a state of spiritual uncertainty and drift helplessly after death. The signs of ac­complishment can be gained relatively quickly without extensive retreat. One form of P’howa supports our own transition; another form allows us to support other persons who are dying.

Chagdud Khadro trained in P’howa extensively under His Eminence Chagdud Tulku, who authorized her to teach and to give the required empowerment. Her teachings have found a receptive audience not only among dharma students, but also among health professionals who are seeking new, more profound techniques to alleviate the pain and grief of those they work with. People of other faiths have likewise found the training of P’howa of great value. The lineage of Khadro’s P’howa training is from Rigdzin Longsal Nyingpo; the Amitabha Buddha empowerment is a treasure of Dudjom Lingpa.

Who Should Attend? 

• This program is open to everyone.
• This program is part of the Magyu curriculum

Program Tuition 

Room and Board

Learn more about available financial assistance options and apply for a scholarship here. 

Installment Payment Plan Option at Registration

Understanding that everyone’s financial situation is different, Tara Mandala aims to make programs as accessible as possible. During registration, participants have the option to either pay the program fee in full or select the Installment Payment Plan. For those choosing the installment plan, a 25% deposit is required at registration, with the remaining balance automatically divided into equal monthly payments. The final payment is due 14 days before the program begins. If retreat enrollment occurs close to the start date, additional arrangements can be made. For any questions or special requests, the Finance Team is ready to assist at care@taramandala.org.

Sustaining Sangha

If you are currently a member of our Sustaining Sangha, you may apply your Retreat discount. To learn more about Sustaining Sangha membership, benefits, and discounts, click here. 

Offering dana to the Teacher

The practice of offering dana, which means “generosity,” is the traditional offering the student makes to the teacher as a symbol of appreciation, gratitude, and reciprocity for receiving the precious teachings. Information on offering dana to the teacher will be provided during the program. To learn more about dana and suggested dana ranges, please click here. 

The suggested dana for this program is $60 – $180.

Tara Mandala Pricing Guidelines

As we work to become an equitable, diverse and inclusive community, our pricing guidelines are intended to be a map, inviting each of us to take inventory of resources that contribute to our access to precious dharma teachings. While we do ask you to look inward, please know there is no right or wrong answer. We encourage you to select the range/rate appropriate to your circumstances. To learn more about Tara Mandala’s pricing guidelines for Online Programs, In-Person Retreats, and Special Promotions, please visit this page. 

Tentative Schedule

August 14, 2025

5pm Orientation

6pm – 7:30pm Dinner & Karma Yoga

8pm – 9pm Opening Gathering

August 15-16, 2025

7am – 8am Morning Practice

8am – 9:30am Breakfast & Karma Yoga

10am – 12:45pm Empowerment & Teaching Session

1pm – 2:30pm Lunch & Karma Yoga

3:30pm-5:45pm Teaching Session

6pm – 7:30pm Dinner & Karma Yoga

8pm – 9pm Evening Practice

August 17, 2025

8am – 9:30am Breakfast

10am – 1pm Teaching & Closing

1pm Lunch & Departure

To prepare for this retreat, you will need

• The P’howa practice text can be purchased from Tibetan Treasures. Tara Mandala will also provide practice texts via pre-order for $13 (text + S&H). Please request your text by July 31, 2025. 
• A Mala, Bell & Vajra. These implements are available through our Dakini store. Note: it is not required that you have both of these items upon attending the retreat, however, eventually they are necessary to do the full practice.

Suggested Books & Audio

• Suggested: P’howa Commentary by Chagdud Khadro
• Suggested: P’howa Practice Audio Download with H.E. Chagdud Tulku Rinpoche
• Suggested: Life in Relation to Death by H.E. Chagdud Tulku Rinpoche

Onsite Programs Cancellation and Refund Policy

Health and Safety Protocols for In-Person Retreats