Upcoming Retreats


Exploring Buddhism

Geshe Tenzin Legtsok

June 16 - December 14, 2025
Registration Now Open for the next module Exploring the Fundamentals of Reasoning and Debate at Ocean of Compassion, starting September 15th!    Exploring Buddhism is the newest foundational-level course co-developed by FPMT Education Services and senior FPMT teachers, including Geshe Tenzin Namdak, Geshe Tenzin Legtsok, and Venerable Joan Nicell. Geshe Tenzin Namdak and Geshe Tenzin Legtsok serve as the main contributors. The program has been revised from the original pilot offered at various FPMT centers.   It was conceived as a bridge between the FPMT Discovering Buddhism and the FPMT Basic Program. The EB program presents selected topics that provide…

North American Community Prayers

Venerable Angie Muir

July 24 - December 26, 2025
Weekly Regional Collective Prayers: For Lama Zopa Rinpoche's Auspicious Return, the Long Life of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, and World Peace   Every Thursday | 8:30 - 9:00 am (PT) | Online Only   All are welcome! This is a precious opportunity for FPMT students, staff, and volunteers across North America to gather in unity, generating collective merit and deepening our regional community bonds. These practices are led by rotating facilitators from centers and projects throughout the region.   Join us each Thursday morning for a short but powerful 30-minute collective practice, which will include a rotating schedule of:…

Discover the Heart of Buddhist Meditation at the Wisdom Center

Venerable Angie Muir

August 30 - September 27, 2025
Vajrapani Institute is delighted to announce a new collaboration with Land of Medicine Buddha and the Wisdom Center to offer beginner-friendly Saturday morning classes, available both online and in person in the heart of Santa Cruz.   Designed to be welcoming and accessible, these sessions offer a gentle introduction to Buddhist teachings in a supportive community setting.     Discover the Heart of Buddhist Meditation with Ven. Angie Muir Date: Five Saturdays, Aug 30th- Sept. 27th Time: 9:30-11:00 AM (PT) Where: The Wisdom Center of Santa Cruz and Online Via Zoom* The Galleria, Suite 240 COMMUNITY ROOM 740 Front Street, Santa…

In-Depth Meditation Training: The Radiant Ground – Emptiness and Buddha Nature

Venerable Losang Gendun

September 6 - November 29, 2025
We’re delighted to announce that Vajrapani Institute is now offering the FPMT program, In-Depth Meditation Training, led by Venerable Losang Gendun. This four year course is designed so that students can join at any time and immediately benefit. Each class includes 60 minutes of guided meditation followed by 90 minutes of lecture, including Q&A. Over 100 students from around the globe come together each week for this transformative program!   Year 3, Term 1 The Radiant Ground: Emptiness and Buddha Nature Saturdays: September 6th to November 29th 6:30 AM- 9:00 AM (PST) Online via Zoom   About IDMT Although grounded…

Solar Eclipse Tara Puja

Venerable Angie Muir

September 21, 2025
Solar Eclipse Tara Puja: For Protection and Fulfillment     Please join us for a Solar Eclipse Tara Puja on September 21st with Ven Angie Muir from 10:30 AM - 11:45 AM (PT) on Zoom.  This puja will be in English. September 21st is a Solar Eclipse making it a merit-multiplying day, which increases the strength of the puja. Merit refers to the positive energy or spiritual benefit accumulated through virtuous actions, thoughts, and practices that align with the path of compassion and wisdom. Merit multiplies 100 million times when there is  solar eclipse!  Tara Puja is a devotional practice invoking…

Our Services


GROUP RETREATS

Group Retreats allow you to join other students in gaining experience, knowledge, and skills under the guidance of a qualified teacher.

PRIVATE RETREATS

Retreat is especially relevant and useful in today’s busy, agitated world. Retreat offers many different benefits, for a wide variety of people.

FACILITY RENTALS

Our facilities, including a meditation hall, accommodations, and blessed land are available for rental to spiritual groups of all traditions.

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Vajrapani Institute is affiliated with the Foundation for the Preservation of the Mahayana Tradition www.FPMT.org