Drikung Dzogchen Community Vermont

Blazing Wisdom Yamāntaka Retreat

The Fiery Razor of Protection
and Repelling:
Fearless Wisdom and
Compassion for Dark Times

March 20–23, 2026
Lincoln, Vermont
Online & In-Person

PRACTICING DHARMA
IN DARK TIMES

In times of profound confusion and spiritual degeneration, fierce wisdom and compassion are urgently needed. Within the Tibetan Buddhist tradition — and especially within the Drikung Kagyu and Nyingma lineages — Yamāntaka is regarded as one of the most potent and essential practices for navigating and dispelling the dark forces of these degenerate times.

THE FIERCE COMPASSION OF YAMANTAKA

Because this era is so fraught with confusion and destructive forces, this cycle of Yamāntaka teachings is identified as a perfectly "timely teaching."

While the power of other practices may wane during the five degenerations, the blessings of this specific Yamāntaka cycle are said to become swifter and more powerful as the times grow darker. Its compassionate activity for the sake of beings is compared to a "great wind-fanned forest fire."

A RARE OPPORTUNITY AND BLESSING:

At this retreat, Lama Thupten Nima will offer pith instructions on how to engage in Yamāntaka practice in daily life — teachings and personal instructions that have rarely been given. These profound teachings have traditionally been closely held and are extraordinarily precious.

If you feel a connection to this practice — whether you are a newer or more experienced practitioner — you are warmly welcome. This is a rare and powerful opportunity not to be missed.

ABOUT THE RETREAT MASTER

Venerable Lama Thupten Nima is a vital lineage holder of the Drikung Yamāntaka tradition and a principal holder of this powerful cycle. Born in 1965, he trained under extraordinary circumstances in the aftermath of the Cultural Revolution and received profound transmissions from masters like Khenpo Munsel Rinpoche and His Eminence Garchen Rinpoche.

Recognizing the urgent need for Yamāntaka in the West—to help establish and create the conditions for successful dharma practice—HE Garchen Rinpoche brought Lama Thupten Nima to the West in 2001 to help make this happen. In recognition of his exceptional ritual mastery and dedication to preserving these tantric traditions, His Holiness Drikung Kyabgon Chetsang Rinpoche formally appointed him as a Vajra Master of the Drikung lineage in 2019.

A Yamantaka Teaching

from HE Garchen Rinpoche

YouTube Yamantaka Teaching

Drikung Yamantaka Facebook Page

Teaching Location:
Sunray Peace Village
2202 Downingsville Rd
Lincoln, VT 05443
Directions

Nestled in Vermont’s Green Mountains at the foot of Mount Abraham and near the headwaters of the New Haven River, Sunray Peace Village is recognized by many traditions as a place of natural beauty and spiritual power.

RETREAT TEACHING SCHEDULE

During this retreat,

many rare transmissions will be given.

Friday, March 20

6:30 PM — Introduction to Yamāntaka

Preliminary Practice Transmission

Saturday, March 21

9:30 AM – 12:00 PM — Yamāntaka Empowerment

2:00 PM – 5:00 PM — Yamāntaka Teachings

Sunday, March 22

10:00 AM – 12:00 PM — Peaceful Yamāntaka Fire Offering for Inner & Outer World Healing/Peace

3:00 PM – 6:00 PM — The Activities of Yamāntaka: Protection & Repelling Teachings