Discovering Dzogchen Youth Retreat with Lama Laia Pema Tsultrim and Lama Pema Dragpa
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Padma Samye Ling Retreat Center in upstate New York
June 20 - 27, 2026
Learn more and Apply!
Looking for a meaningful way to spend your summer?
Dive into the ancient wisdom of Tibetan Buddhism with our Dzogchen immersion program for young adults (age 18 to 35). In the hermitage of Padma Samye Ling, you’ll learn the art of meditation, delve into profound Buddhist philosophy, and explore the transformative teachings approaching the practice of Dzogchen under the guidance of a meditation master, Ven. Khenpo Tsewang Rinpoche. Nestled in the serene wilderness of Upstate New York, this program offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature, nurture your mind, and discover your true potential.
There are two offerings for you to consider. You may choose to do just one, or do both.
(1) Immersive week-long Tibetan Buddhist practice and learning intensive co-organized by the Padmasambhava Buddhist Center and Dharma Gates. June 20th – June 27th
(2) Immediately followed by a free 4-week training program of Vajrayana study, practice, and service at Padma Samye Ling culminating with the weeklong Summer Dzogchen retreat led by Ven. Khenpo Tsewang Rinpoche. June 20th – July 25th.
If you are interested in joining for the 4-week training program following the 1 week of practice please indicate that on your registration form and we will be in touch with you about scheduling a check in call.
Retreat Overview
This immersion offers an introduction to calm abiding (shamatha), insight (vipashyana), and practices approaching Dzogchen meditation, guided by senior teachers of the Padmasambhava Buddhist Center, including Lama Laia Pema Tsultrim and Lama Pema Dragpa.
Participants will receive clear, accessible teachings on the fundamentals of Buddhist philosophy, including:
Foundational Buddhism
Sutra Mahayana
Tantra Mahayana
Dzogchen
Daily teachings and Q&A sessions with Lama Laia Pema Tsultrim and Lama Pema Dragpa support both conceptual understanding and lived practice. Toward the conclusion of the retreat, there will be a culminating Q&A session with Ven. Khenpo Tsewang Dongyal Rinpoche, offering a rare opportunity to receive guidance from a senior Dzogchen master.
Retreat Rhythm & Community
Each day is intentionally balanced between silence and connection. Approximately half of the day is held in silence to support settling the mind and deepening calm abiding practice. The other half allows space for Dharma inquiry, reflection, and connection with fellow participants and the broader Padmasambhava Buddhist Center sangha.
Participants are warmly encouraged to refrain from phone use during the retreat in order to support depth, presence, and continuity of practice.
Sample Daily Schedule
6:00 AM Wake-up (in silence)
7:00 AM Silent Meditation in Main Temple
8:00 AM Mindful Breakfast (out of silence)
9:15 AM Simple Yoga (optional)
10:00 AM Dharma Teaching w/ Q & A
11:00 AM Meditation
12:30 PM Mindful Lunch; Personal Care Time
2:30 PM Dharma Teaching w/ Q & A (back in silence)
3:30 PM Meditation
5:00 PM Mindful Teatime
5:30 PM Tibetan Buddhist Meditation
6:45 PM Open Dharma Discussion
7:30 PM Mindful Dinner w/ Clean Up
8:30 PM Rest (in silence, will come out of silence at breakfast)
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