Mahamudra & Trekchö Retreat
with Richard John
June 5 - 14, 2026
Resting in the Natural State
In this entire world, nothing is superior to–or more precious than–
the ability to break the chain of thinking. –Tulku Urgyen
For vajrayana students who wish to practice essence mahamudra or trekchö–its dzogchen equivalent–there is no time to waste. This retreat is an opportunity to go beyond conceptual study to direct personal experience, and to recognize and become capable of resting in buddha nature–the essence of mind. In the famous words of Tulku Urgyen, “Short moments many times–there is no other way.”
Mipham the Great taught that once you have received transmission from the guru, understood the meaning, and gained some certainty, “it is crucial that you sustain the essence of awareness by yourself.” That is our priority for this lifetime.
In this retreat we will be guided by the pith instructions of great lineage masters, including Khenpo Gangshar, Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche, Tulku Urgyen, and the Vidyadhara. Much of the retreat will be in silence, with ample time for study, rest, and discussion.
Participants should begin at the beginning and attend the entire retreat. Exceptions can be requested by repeat participants, on a case-by-case basis. Space is limited, and early registration is recommended.
Who May Attend
The first weekend of this program is open to all practitioners, new or senior, who have received meditation instruction and are committed to the path of dharma. Approaching Mahamudra: A Weekend Meditation Retreat registration will be open soon.
To attend the full retreat, participants must have received the transmission of mind nature from a qualified teacher of the Kagyu or Nyingma lineages.
Cost
$1125 – 2295 depending on your lodging choice
Pay in full or 30% deposit
Click on the Information & Registration button to find the lodging that suits your needs.
Heart Gifts
It is customary to offer a monetary heart gift to a dharma teacher. This is a significant source of income for many teachers. Gifts are voluntary, and any amount will be appreciated. There will be an opportunity to do this near the end of the program. Dorje Denma Ling is not able to collect heart gift money, please talk to your program coordinator.
Generosity Policy
We want everyone to be able to attend retreats at Dorje Denma Ling. Read about our Generosity Policy and payment options here:
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Registration and Cancellation Policy
About the Leader
Richard John
An early student of Chögyam Trungpa Rinpoche, Richard served as acharya for Sakyong Mipham Rinpoche for 20 years. He completed the traditional Buddhist three-year retreat at Gampo Abbey, and has led mahamudra retreats for 25 years. Richard and his wife Liz reside in Halifax, Nova Scotia.
Learn more about Richard JohnCategories : Advanced Program, On-Land Programs & Events