Vajrapani Institute

I recently attended the Memorial Day weekend retreat: ‘Developing a Focused Mind, Shine Level 1′ with Emily Hsu. The teachings were focused, relevant and insightful. Emily Hsu is an amazing, compassionate and knowledgeable teacher. This four day silent retreat helped me to deepen my dedication and practice. The quality of this institute, the staff and all the people involved, helped make this experience so worthwhile and memorable. I plan on attending many more retreats in the future.

I could describe Vajrapani in two words: Big Love!
Or more: Vajrapani is an amazing place to go on retreat, learn about meditation, learn about Buddhism or one of the many other topics they offer teachings on. The staff is unbelievably welcoming, kind and supportive throughout the retreat process. The food is amazing. Their resident teacher, Venerable Tenzin Chogkyi, is fantastic. She is both extremely knowledgeable and very relatable. Vajrapani is a great place to study, even if you’re not interested in practicing Buddhism. Or it’s a great place to study Buddhism from extremely qualified teachers. Vajrapani is part of a larger organization called FPMT (The Foundation for the Preservation of the Mahayana Tradition) that puts much energy into making sure that the teachers they have at their centers are highly qualified. Finally, Vajrapani is really putting Buddhist values first in offering many pay-​it-​forward retreats and discounts and scholarships for all regular programs. This is an amazing center, filled with the kindest people, that is making the world a better place everyday. Many thanks to everyone who is part of, and has been part of, making Vajrapani available as a center. I am extremely grateful!

I recently completed an 8 day silent retreat with my teacher at Vajrapani. I have also been on shorter «private» retreats by myself in a cabin. What an amazing place! The beauty and serenity of the land combined with the wonderful staff and tasty, homemade food really made the perfect setting to allow me to go deep within and explore the silence. I always leave feeling 100% renewed, refreshed and ready to return to my work and kids.

I really liked my stay at Vajrapani, overall it was a positive experience. I liked the nature, the hikes, the buildings, the Buddhists precepts that we were suppose to follow, and I liked that it was a silence retreat, I liked the people in silence and I liked most of the organic food.
However I would not rate my particular retreat Focused Mind with Emily Hsu, very high. My brain is hyperactive, and usually listen to on-​line courses at 1.75x speed, when instructors speak average speed. Everything about Focused Mind was so so slow. Limited teaching, and not many answers to direct questions. Most meditations were not guided and for me, so long. (20 min each)
I would highly rate an evening teaching with Fabien, as really enjoyable and the guided meditation was successful.
So choose wisely which retreat to attend, research the teacher or monk and try to find audio and video clips of their teachings, so you can make better decision.
I got drawn to Venerable Tenzin teachings, but was too impatient to wait for retreat that she teaches (also it was longer than the one I attended).
For folks that are considering retreat, this particular retreat, and I believe many others have about 8h of teachings a day and day schedule is:
7 – 8 am morning meditation
8 – 9 am breakfast
9 – 12 teaching and meditation with break
12 – 12.45 lunch
2.30−3 pm somatic stretch
3.15−6 pm teaching and meditation with break
6 – 7 pm dinner
7.30−8.30 pm meditation with different teacher
Hope this helps. AND YES, note on driving to Vajrapani: please take rt 9 south to come to Pool drive, rather then 17/​Bear Creek Rd /​short stretch of rt 9 north.
Rt 9 is so much wider, less wavy, and enjoyable to drive. Bear Creek Rd is quite nerve racking, and I was drenched in sweat after driving on it. Good luck.

I recently attended a weekend retreat and my expectations were exceeded. The food, staff, volunteers and attendees were amazing. I can’t wait to go back!

Vajrapani Institute is an amazing and serene place to disconnect from the stresses of everyday life. I participated in the Kopan West: A Practical Guide to True Happiness which provides a complete, yet basic understanding of Buddhist principles and practices. This program is great for beginners. As a «spiritual but not religious» person, I found valuable tools to further my personal practice.
The retreat was led by Venerable Tenzin Chogkyi, an inspiring and knowledgeable teacher. She is grounded and makes the lessons plans understandable and interesting for all levels. If you have a chance to join a retreat with Venerable, I highly recommend it.
I stayed in the dormitory. I recommend the bottom bunk, as the top bunks have the ladder in a tricky angle. I was grateful to be in the main dorm, as I learned the semi-​private accommodations do not have curtains.
The meals were healthful and delicious. They have a tea and snack station in case you get hungry in between meals. I grew an attachment for the lemon tahini dressing and was glad to purchase the recipe book.
This program, and many others in the coming year, are offered in the pay it forward program. It is designed to allow those with financial challenges to attend at no cost. Although I agree 100% with the motive and intention of the program, I was disappointed at the minimal donations left but the 28 participants. It’s not a free vacation. If you plan to go, be as generous as they are to you, and help support the sustainability of Vajrapani Institute.

Vajrapani in a very special place and a true gift to the world. We are truly blessed to have it in the Bay Area.

I recently was lucky to complete a Lam Rim retreat with the Venerable Tenzin Chogkyi at Vajrapani.
I can’t speak highly enough of the Venerable. Her generosity, humor and understanding was so helpful to all of us in the course. Her knowledge of the scriptures, along with her altruistic nature means that I will be trying to attend more courses taught by her.
The course itself is unmissable for anyone interested in Buddhism.
Finally I want to thank Vajrapani for making this course available as a «Pay It Forward» course, enabling me to attend it. All the staff are friendly and helpful.

I’ve done two retreats at Vajrapani and they’ve been great. The teachers are impressive, the food is wonderful, and the setting is lovely. A great place for learning and meditation.

Absolutely wonderful place. The grounds are very secluded and quiet. There are plenty of inspiring areas with stupas and the like, as well as a small hiking trail that runs alongside a gentle stream. If you want a more energetic hike, the property is adjacent to and has a trail connecting it to a state park with unlimited hiking opportunities and spectacular views in all directions.
I stayed in the dorms and everything was clean and comfortable, including the dorm’s shared bathroom. There are also semi private accommodations as well as private cabins in a fully silent area on top of a beautiful ridge. Anyone staying there also has access to «outdoor» showers that are fully enclosed other than the large opening on one side looking over a small valley and into the surrounding mountain ridges. Set up just right so that you have your privacy but can still feel like you’re outdoors. Although its a bit cold in the early morning, the hot water will keep you warm if you’re an early riser and inspired to take a shower with a view of the stars or the sunrise!
The food was fantastic (vegetarian of course, but plenty of dairy and eggs) and they customize their menu to ensure everyone has multiple choices so that whether you are vegan, have allergies, or are simply avoiding certain foods, you’ll have plenty. I have allergies to lentils and soy which are staples of most vegetarian diets and I still had no problem filling my plate with a variety of foods. They serve the food buffet style, though I hear that people renting the private cabins have their meals brought up to them 3 times a day!
What really made the difference for me, however, was the staff. Every staff member was truly happy to be there and took pleasure in helping each and every one of the guests. Even during silent portions of my retreat when I would walk through the dining area and glance at a staff member working in the kitchen, they would greet you with a genuine smile. The «administrative» staff especially, was so full of joy, that they were inspirational.
Finally, my retreat was guided by the Venerable Tenzin Chogkyi, whom I can’t thank enough. Her ability to communicate the teachings was top notch. She was mindful of everybody’s emotions, always cheerful, and constantly making people laugh. At the same time, her explanations were very meaningful and thought provoking, she showed the most sincere empathy for anyone with emotional pain and suffering, and constantly adjusted her «game plan» based upon the feedback and questions of everyone present. I would consider myself fortunate to have the opportunity to learn from her again in the future.

Outstanding organization that creates authentic and accessible experiences for interested persons of all stripes.
Don’t let the dirt road intimidate you. Slow down to get into the right mindset. :-)
Ask about financial assistance. That shouldn’t be a burden.
The recent meditation retreat was fruitful for both uncertain beginners («what is this about?») and experienced practitioners.
It is off the grid — cell doesn’t work — and that’s a good thing.
Really — come learn about it.

I recently did my first solitary retreat at Vajrapani, and it was absolutely wonderful. The retreat cabin was well equipped for a retreat (ie with an altar, meditation cushion, incense, a Buddha statue etc), comfortable and clean. Food was well-​provided and everything was set up so that I could both be in my own retreat experience and not interact with others while still being cared for, which was really is so unique and amazing. The ridge for the retreat cabins was serene, and there were both nourishing nature and Buddhist symbols. The outdoor showers and yoga deck were also wonderful, and there were a couple hiking trails nearby. I would highly recommend this retreat center for a solitary retreat.

I wish I could’ve stayed a month. It was everything I wanted it to be: a retreat to a quiet private cabin in the woods, virtually no contact with nor noise from any other human being, and delicious meals dropped off for me to eat at my leisure alone. The only distracting noise came from the thoughts inside my own head. Spending two days and three nights away uninterrupted and unhurried was heavenly. But by the last night I was aching for another week of it… at least.
The staff and the other retreated honored the silence up on the ridge, though the blue jays did not, but the sounds of nature were delightful. It was nice to see them, and one evening a skunk meandered by, and in the middle of the night a couple deer passed by my back deck. While the site is located down a good 15 minute drive along a winding dirt road through forrest, it is not too far from civilization. Though the only reminders of this were the sounds of occasional planes in the distance and a couple dirt bikers one evening. But no people.
The ridge faces west, looking down the ridge over trees, and there is one spot near the outdoor showers with the perfect view of the distant hills. The cabin consisted of a single room, with everything I needed: bed and chair, counter for preparing the food and secluded deck looking off into the forest. There were also some floor cushions and yoga mat and some interesting books about Buddhism tucked under the altar. I took a walk around the Peace Trail one evening, it was a nice walk. The six cabins are well separated that I took no notice of my neighbors, except for a few times walking to and from the bath house. The bathrooms were very clean and the outdoor showers had a beautiful view down the ridge. They too were even clean and surprisingly no bugs or spiders. I brought some mosquito repellent but I’m not sure it was needed, though I did make sure to use a little in the morning and the evening. I left without a single bite. In fact, luckily and happily my cabin had no other sentient beings other than myself until the morning I packed up to go a fly finally popped in to say hi. But I was careful to close the screen door every time I came inside.
One of the best surprises about the visit was the delicious food that was served. I was pleasantly surprised that they sold a cookbook with some of the recipes, which I bought and have been trying to replicate the dishes but sadly to no avail. I think the chefs must be doing some mystical Buddhist rituals to cause their dishes to be so flavorful and so satisfying. I’m not usually a vegetarian but if it meant I could eat like this all the time I would be.

I wish I could go every weekend! Such a great value for the cost! If you feel overwhelmed by the digital world swirling around you, give yourself the gift of a trip to this beautiful place where you can be quiet in nature.

I recently stayed at Vajrapani for a weekend MBSR seminar. Although I’ve been practicing for almost 5 years, this was my first retreat. I really loved the whole experience because it was a good mix of meditation/​group discussions and personal free time. The weekend was labeled a partial silent course, but in all honestly, I wouldn’t have minded longer periods of silence.
I stayed at the semi-​private room, which included four bunk beds. The accommodations are sparse but when you’re at a retreat like this, any hint of luxury can be a distraction to your practice so I was appreciative of living simply for the weekend.
All meals are vegetarian. I’m not vegetarian but I never felt hungry. The meals are simple and delicious. They also accommodate those who have special allergies. Seating is such that you can either eat alone in silence while observing the beautiful scenery, or sit with others in a communal table and talk.
The staff is super nice, all my fellow practitioners were friendly, and this was an incredibly relaxing, mentally cleansing experience overall. I am definitely going back for periodic tune-​ups.

Amazing serenity, very accomodating staff, perfect environment to tune in, go inward, and do whatever reflection you can. It is really important for us to take the time to detox from the daily world and remember how precious our life is. thank you Vajrapani center for offering such a space.
I would say that bug repellant is a MUST here. Not just at dusk either. if you want to enjoy the outdoors here, the musquitos are plentiful. just an fyi.
oh and i was never hungry, the meals were great. and the outdoor shower house was a treat!

As an extrovert I was very nervous going into a week long silent (Vipassana) Retreat (within the Mahayana Tradition). It was an incredible experience. The Venerable Losang Gendun was extremely knowledgable, and insightful. The evening teachings were entertaining and informative. It was a transformative experience. I am ready to go back!
The staff were helpful. The meals fantastic. The group that I retreated with were kind and encouraging. It was amazing how much one can come to appreciate someone being there walking in the same place, or sitting on the same cushion for support. I miss the quiet and calm of the world at Vajrapani!

I spent four days at the «Developing a Focused Mind» retreat with Emily Hsu this past May. Vajrapani is located in the mountains of Santa Cruz, amidst redwoods nearby the cute town of Boulder Creek.
The meditation center itself is very serene. Emily, our meditation teacher, is very solid as far as her teachings go, and she responds in a way that is both thoughtful and deliberate.
At first I was a bit worried that Tibetan Buddhism would be a bit too rigid and «religious» for me, but as I listened to Emily speak, everything she said was filled with warmth, wisdom, and logic. I took away a lot from the few days there and hope to apply it to my every day life.
If you are considering attending her retreat at Vajrapani, I highly recommend it.

Just returned from my first meditation retreat and I could not be more happy and satisfied from my time at Vajrapani. I attended the 3 night «Developing a Focused Mind: FPMT Shine Level 1 with Emily Hsu» over Memorial Day weekend. Emily has an incredible, calming presence and I feel luck to have learned from her.
In terms of the location, it is a beautiful sanctuary and the staff has takes amazing care of their guests. Everything is tidy and clean, and the food is delicious, filling and nourishing. Be sure to take advantage of the lovely outdoor showers that have gorgeous views.
A trip to Vajrapani is good for the soul. I would recommend it to anyone and hope to have the opportunity to return in the future.

Have you ever been having such an amazing experience away that every part of you never wants to go home?!
I don’t know if its a common thing for people, but it’s rare that I feel this way, because usually my home is exactly the way I want it: plush, comfy and clean. Funny how Vajrapani Institute does not exactly fit in the «plush» category… but I absolutely did not want to leave.
There are various group retreats and workshops available here for all of those that are interested, as well as individual retreats.
I just finished what I would call a «Meditation Marathon» over the course of five days. I had no idea what to expect except for a rustic retreat with vegetarian meals and a shift in my perspective.
Each person that stays at Vajrapani, if they should be so lucky, could expect some things for certain:
~ Ahhhhmmaazing Vegetarian Meals (that are very filling and make you feel like you could be eating at a vegetarian restaurant in the sky) for lunch and dinner.
~ Noble Silence. There are some areas that require complete silence which is where the private cabins are up on the ridge. Other areas ask that you whisper via signs posted. And some retreats ask that you even carry that silence everywhere excluding the lectures and activities with the teacher (which was the case in mine).
~ Breathtaking views, especially from the outdoor showers that over look the Santa Cruz Mountains towards the Southwest.
~ Über nice staff, volunteers, and animals. :) I’ve never seen deer so close, that don’t budge, no matter how close you are?! I don’t know how fond I was of the screaming squirrels (which I though were birds), but I still like to think of them as nice.
~ There are four main accommodations I know of:
1. Cabins– that’s where I stayed. This is the crème de la crème of Vajrapani. I will definitely return for a weekend trip as soon as I can make the time. The cabins have sinks (on the porch), a twin bed, propane stove, small closet, alter, bedding, meditation cushions, water pitchers, silverware, cups, plates, a teapot, a couple pitchers, candles and about enough room for two yoga mats along the floor. They lock with a key, and also come with access to cleaning supplies and a broom if you find the need for them. The bathhouse is a very close, flat walk, which includes a stand up shower, sink and toilet. They were built in the 90s and totally feel like they could be an extension of someone’s home.
2. Dorms– (up a flight of stairs). I peeked inside. The beds look like what I would imagine they would look like on a cruise ship or train car. Small twin beds stacked/​coming out of the wall. Tight quarters, but appear to be sufficient enough if you’re watching your wallet. These dorms actually have a bathroom right next to them just outside the door of the dorm.
3. Private rooms. These are ground level and in the same building as the dorms. There aren’t too many of these…(maybe only six or seven.) They look more spacious than the dorms and obviously offer a little more privacy. The retreaters who stay in these are also granted access to the outdoor showers and ridge bath houses up the hill.
4. BYOT– Bring your own tent. Pretty self explanatory. I would suggest checking out the website for more information in that regard. ;)
A few tips I would give you. If you are curious or even remotely interested:
~ I would not stay on the ridge unless physically fit– that is if you plan to come down to the mediation hall/​main office/​dining hall/​Gomba at any point in time.
~If you’re planning to do your own silent retreat on the hill, they do help you get you and your belongings up to your cabin and do provide lunch and dinner via meal bags near the fridge on the ridge. The fridge is there for you to store your own food as well as them filling it daily with snacks, fresh fruit, hard boiled eggs and so on.
~ Try their house made granola. I’m usually not a fan of granola– but I didn’t want to go rummaging through the fridge (outdoors near the bathhouse) in the middle of the night, so I decided to opt for their offering in the cabin. WOW. What do these people put in their food? I don’t mean to sound like a glutton– but I would probably go back just for the food, and coffee and tea and even their dessert.
I could go on and on about my experience, but each person has their own. I have shared a ton about this majestic place in hopes that it will help someone at some point– and if not, oh well, I had fun reminiscing about my favorite new place in the Santa Cruz Mountains, just a short drive away from my home.