- Spring retreat 2026 Cortes, BC.
- Winter retreat 2026 Germany
- Autumn retreat 2025 at KDOL.
- Spring retreat 2025 at KDOL.
- Testimonials Spring 2026 Cortes
- Testimonials Winter 2026
- Testimonials Spring 2025
- Testimonials Autumn 2025
Spring retreat 2026 Cortes, BC
We recently completed our inaugural Spring retreat on our own property here on Cortes Island.
There is still a long way to go to fully develop the retreat infrastructure, so the retreat was mostly done in tents, including the meditation sessions.
Check out the testimonials to see what their personal experience of the retreat was like.
Winter retreat 2026 Germany
Wonderful group of retreatants for the winter weekend retreat in Geltendorf Germany.
everyone sat well, considering we were practising for around 8 hours a day and there were many beginners.
Check out the testimonials to see what their personal experience of the retreat was like.
Autumn Retreat at KDOL May 2025
We recently completed the second retreat, at KDOL retreat centre on Salt Spring Island BC. The retreat included a refuge ceremony for new buddhists. This time we focused on the needs of beginners to the path. Even so in the end we were meditating 4 1/2 hours a day in formal sitting. Hats off to everyone for a job well done. Here are some pictures from the retreat.
Spring Retreat at KDOL May 2025
Having successfully completed our first retreat in British Columbia at the spectacular KDOL retreat centre we wanted to share some of the amazing pictures we took as well as the testimonials from the participants. Such a nice group of seekers on the spiritual path!
Check out the testimonials.
Testimonials from the Spring 2026 Retreatants
This was my 3rd retreat with Lama Choga. After each retreat I feel the convictions of my practice strengthen. This is what keeps bringing me back. Here no one is trying to sell you a belief or charge you for wisdom. I believe in the benefit of these practices so much that I brought friends along with me.
This is my first time at the retreat center Lama Choga is building on Cortes Island. We arrived to find lots of activity, tents being put up, prayer flags being hung. Eventually there will be cabins, but for now tents are more than enough. I was surrounded by the forest and bird calls. At the retreat things are simple in the best sense of the word. There is a set daily schedule with most of the day spent meditating. It's not an easy journey but I was not alone. Although we are in silence, it is a shared experience. There is a camaraderie with the other spiritual practitioners as we meditate and learn together. It was beautiful to witness everyone helping each other and working together to improve the retreat space for the future. Throughout the week we gathered stones and placed them along the walkways. At the beginning of the week there were a few but by the end there were many defined paths.
On our final day in silence, we went on a walking meditation. Lama instructed to take every step with mindful awareness. Going through the old growth forest I noticed trees covered in moss, a sea of green everywhere. Following Lama’s lead, we all started picking up these giant slimy slugs and throwing them off the path so they wouldn’t get squished. The path opened into a huge clearing with a view of the bay. I have never seen so many starfish. They were bright purple. We picnicked, enjoyed the sunshine and put up prayer flags overlooking the bay. We had free time to ourselves. I got excited, forgot about the mindful awareness and fell climbing up some rocks. The pain in my finger that remains today is a daily reminder to take each step with awareness.
The retreat gave me the space to stop running from myself. Not because meditation magically fixed everything and not because anyone forced me to. Because for a whole week there was nowhere else to go except inward. I now have the courage to look at my negative thoughts and emotions and accept them instead of hiding them deep within myself.
Lama Choga is an amazing guide. He is humble and deeply cares about his students. I appreciate his direct teaching style. He inspires me to continue to deepen my practice and to think about the wellbeing of others over myself. The community here is supportive and kind. I returned home with renewed commitment to my practice and a deeper intention to live with more awareness.
Kelly
Oregon, WA
Attending this one-week silent retreat on the beautiful Cortes Island in British Columbia was a
deeply meaningful and transformative experience. Surrounded by nature, sleeping in my own
small tent, and nourished by truly delicious meals, I found it remarkably easy to step away from
the noise and distractions of daily life and reconnect with myself.
Living with a long-term physical condition that significantly limits my energy and what I am
able to do each day, I was initially unsure whether I would be able to complete the retreat. Sitting
for extended periods, walking through the natural terrain, and camping in a tent presented real
challenges. From the very beginning, however, Karma Choga and everyone involved showed
extraordinary kindness, compassion, and thoughtfulness. They consistently checked in on me,
offered support whenever it was needed, and made me feel genuinely cared for, allowing me to
fully participate despite my limitations.
Throughout the week, I experienced a profound sense of inner peace that I had felt in a long
time. The silence created a space where I could observe my thoughts and emotions with greater
clarity and compassion, leading to a much deeper level of emotional awareness. The one-on-one
sessions with Karma Choga were especially valuable, offering thoughtful guidance that deepened
my understanding of both the meditation practice and how to carry its insights into everyday life.
The retreat concluded with a walking meditation through a stunning forest, culminating in a
picnic beside a beautiful lake. Being immersed in such an extraordinary natural setting added a
profound spiritual dimension to the entire journey and deepened my sense of connection with
both nature and myself.
I was also surprised by the positive changes in my physical well-being. By the end of the retreat,
I felt calmer, lighter, and more refreshed, both mentally and physically. The combination of
silence, the breath taking surroundings, mindful practice, insightful personal guidance,
exceptional care, and the warm, supportive environment had a restorative effect that stayed with
me long after I returned home.
I am deeply grateful to Karma Choga and everyone who made this retreat possible. Their
wisdom, generosity, and genuine compassion created a safe and welcoming space in which I
could grow, despite my physical challenges. I would wholeheartedly recommend this retreat to
anyone seeking greater peace, self-understanding, and genuine personal renewal. And one final
piece of advice: don't leave Cortes Island without trying Karma Choga's legendary homemade
marinated tofu and kimchi—they're almost reason enough to attend the retreat on their own!
Sara
Vancouver
Having done a retreat previously with Choga, I'd noticed my expectations around how I'd feel over the course of the week affecting my meditation. This proved a very fruitful experience to interrogate and I proceeded to recognize the familiar effects of sitting while simultaneously allowing space for new kinds of awareness to unfold. The hermitage provided a beautiful and supportive atmosphere with great food and some faces I'd seen before. Walking meditation to and from Carrington Bay was likely my favourite part of the week, though I can't just separate one event from the rest as it all instilled the value of asking myself, "why am I here?" and continuing to incorporate daily silence and stillness into my life. I look forward to returning.
Thanks!
Carson Redden
Haida Gwaii, Canada
I spent roughly two weeks in the cedar forest at The Drolung Hermitage. The first week I worked alongside Lama, Clinton and Jeanette as we prepared the grounds for the first retreat on our own property. Everyone worked diligently, and it was a privilege to serve the retreat in whatever way was needed. Supporting the conditions that allow others to practice has become an integral part of my own path.
Being a part of a community that is centered around loving and caring for one another without expecting anything in return is something that our society desperately needs. When we work together for the wellbeing of others, we are able to come together to solve problems and create something meaningful that will surely benefit many people in the years to come.
The second week was our silent retreat. This was a particularly special time as many of us already knew each other from other retreats or interactions within the community. There was a sense of coming home. Sitting for seven days in silence in the cedar forest helped me see how critical cultivating stillness within ourselves truly is.
Of course, there were new challenges and lessons to learn. I am incredibly grateful for those and continue to integrate these insights into my daily life more than a month later. I am starting to see that the depth of one's meditation practice is actually limitless. It is something that cannot be understood intellectually, but only experienced through the cultivation of stillness, silence, and sustained practice.
Mary Banks
Georgia, USA
The retreat was lovely. Relaxed conditions, a beautiful environment, and accommodating for my needs. This was my 2nd retreat, so I knew what to expect going in, but for quite a few people this was their first time going. I can't wait for the next one.
Lilly
Oregon, USA
I had the privilege of participating in the one-week Spring Silent Retreat on Cortes Island, and it was truly an amazing and transformative journey.
The setting itself was extraordinary. Surrounded by the beauty of the Salish Sea and the peaceful natural environment of Cortes Island, it was the perfect place to step away from the demands of daily life and turn inward.
Throughout the week, I participated in Robert’s meditation teachings and Jeanette’s yoga sessions. Together, these practices provided valuable tools for finding greater calmness, clarity, and inner peace. The retreat offered an opportunity not only to learn, but to experience these qualities directly.
Robert’s kindness and generosity were evident in every aspect of the retreat. He accommodated me with a bed in the log house, ensuring I was comfortable throughout my stay. His attention to the well-being of each participant helped create a welcoming and supportive environment.
One of the most enriching aspects of the retreat was meeting sixteen participants from various parts of the world, including Germany and the United States, as well as from communities across British Columbia such as Tofino and Nanaimo. The diversity of experiences and perspectives added greatly to the sense of connection and community.
What makes this retreat especially remarkable is that Robert has spent the last three years creating and developing this sanctuary as a non-profit endeavor. His vision is to make meaningful spiritual retreat experiences accessible to people who might not otherwise be able to afford them. That commitment to service and inclusivity is both rare and inspiring.
I left the retreat feeling renewed, grounded, and grateful. I believe that the care, dedication, and generosity Robert has invested in this project will continue to benefit many people for years to come.
I highly recommend this retreat to anyone seeking personal growth, inner peace, and a deeper connection with themselves and others.
Thank you, Robert (Choga), for your vision, hard work, and kindness. I believe that the positive energy and generosity you have shared through this retreat will return to you many times over.
Ena Allen
Nanaimo, BC
I had a truly wonderful week at the Hermitage on Cortes Island with Lama Choga. Although I was already somewhat familiar with this beautiful sanctuary, I felt encouraged to come and participate in a retreat, and I cannot praise the experience highly enough.
Everything about the Hermitage was special. The grounds are absolutely spectacular, peaceful, serene, and wonderfully natural. The accommodations are simple and spartan, but I found them perfectly suited to retreat life. In fact, I preferred them to staying in a cabin. The meals, which participants took turns preparing, were consistently delicious and became an enjoyable part of the communal experience.
The schedule was rigorous without being overwhelming, and once settled into the rhythm, it felt remarkably natural. Each day included three meals, four meditation sessions, yoga, and ample time to relax and enjoy the beauty of the surroundings.
Lastly, I would like to offer my deepest appreciation to Lama Choga. His daily Dharma talks were both insightful and inspiring, and he generously made himself available for one-to-one conversations, which I found immensely valuable.
I would wholeheartedly recommend attending a retreat at the Hermitage to anyone with an interest in the Dharma or in deepening their spiritual practice. It was an experience I will always treasure.
Phillip McAdams
Nanaimo, BC
This was my second retreat with Lama Choga, this time in his own budding retreat centre. As was the first time it was a very beautiful and serene experience filled with kindness and connection, despite the silence. Can't wait to see how the retreat centre on Cortes evolves over time!
Sherry Gu
Nanaimo, BC
This was my first time experiencing a week of silence, and what a powerful experience it was. From a young age I was very resistant to religion and faith in anything, I expected this retreat to be jarring, so I would say I'm fresh on the path to exploring my spirituality. My first impression of the Drolung Hermitage was like a return to home, I felt comfortable and at peace in the gorgeous red cedars, and my familiarity with herbs and plants sparked an excitement I'm only beginning to realize fits my path in life.
Before I left for this retreat, I had an image in my mind of what I want to do with my life, and that is to teach people about how to live more synchronously with the earth, how to conserve, and I pictured an Arboretum of sorts, with stones lining paths through a forests, native plants and herbs peppering forest floor. Though the climate didn't match my thoughts, something else came up, the realization that my path was missing very important traits. Faith, discipline, wisdom, and stillness.
I've spent most of my life fighting between this idea that I should put all my effort into the benefit of others, and found myself sporadically bounding back and forth from self-care, to compassion and charitable acts for others, leaving me in a state of confusion.
A week of silence, meditation, and learning about the Buddhist Dharma from Lama Choga, taught me that stillness and discipline, in my practice of faith and meditation, will allow me to sort myself out, so I can truly help others.
This could have been the most powerful experience of my life, and knowing that it's up to me to continue down this path, fills me with strength, and confidence. I will be returning when I can to strengthen my practice, and my gratitude for Choga, and those who helped put this together, as well as those who joined the retreat, is immense.
Michael
Oregon, USA
This retreat had something to offer for everyone: for beginners who wanted to learn how to calm their minds, for those with some experience who wished to deepen their understanding of the Buddhist path, and for those interested in exploring the subtleties of this profound practice.
Creating a retreat that accommodates such a wide range of practitioners is not an easy task, yet it continues to work beautifully. Beyond the practice itself, there was also a strong sense of community—sharing silence, laughter (especially toward the end), daily work, and even the cold BC mornings together.
Offering all of this entirely through the generosity of donors is remarkable. It stands as a powerful alternative to the increasing commercialization of spirituality.I sincerely hope that this form of non-transactional retreat practice continues to spread, demonstrating that a more compassionate and wiser way of sharing spiritual practice—and life on this planet—is possible.
Jeannette
Canada
The retreat provided an excellent, structured opportunity to study, meditate, and contemplate, provided by a very learned and experienced instructor. The online option is also very good to have, for example, for people like me who live and work in places where such teachings are not present very much.'
Max
Eastern Europe
Testimonials from the Winter 2026 Retreatants
This week of retreat was an amazing experience for me. I've been in the dharma for a while and received many teachings. I haven't been in retreat for a long time though and the setup of this retreat was very welcome in this period of my life.
I had the opportunity to deepen my practice tremendously in a very short time and at the same time having a growing insight about my personal habits and being in the world.
I'm absolutuly grateful to Lama Choga and his continuous effort to make this retreat work for all the attendants in a very authentic way. I'm grateful to my fellow practitioners who were a sincere and loving support.
And I'm so grateful to the donors without whom this whole event wouldn't have been possible. I rejoice in their merit.
May this dharma project continu to grow long into the future and be of benefit to countless beings.
Josh Rose
Devon, UK
I had much less previous meditation experience than most participants, and sitting for so many hours straight every day turns to be a physically really hard thing to do, at least if you're a beginner like me! Luckily we had really beneficial yoga sessions throughout by Jeannette that helped alot. There was a great sense of community and support from everyone involved at all times. Choga and volunteers provided great support, accomodation (even transport) and self-made meals.
All in all I was a challenging but very interesting experience, helped by Choga's very learned and tailored instructions, and supplemented by deep yet engaging dharma talks.
All the best
Tunde
Tunde
Germany
I want to get to know myself better, and for me, this is the place to be. Time spent with Lama Choga always tests my resilience of both body and mind, and opens the door for something really profound: new ways of seeing, in theory and in experience. Without a doubt, I see that he has learned from the best meditation instructors of our time and has the experience to teach it progressively, starting from the foundational practices up to grounds that are still waiting to be established in me. It’s a joy for me to participate in something that I value more than gold with other like-minded people in a well-structured and planned setting. From this experience, I have the confidence and inspiration to make my own weekend meditation retreats at home to hold mindfulness and a wise direction in my everyday activities. Namo Buddhaya
Samuel
Estonia
A great and safe experience for beginnimg and advanced seekers where attention is given for every participant.
A teacher with great knowledge covering all buddhistic streams leading through theory and practical application in all core meditation techniques , joined with great yoga lessons. Perfectly organized, great food, locations,stays and composition of participants that become companions on the path.
Brought my practice to a new level.
A experience i will try to repeat.
Anumodana to all that made this possible by their contribitions.
Benjamin Krueger
Germany
I attended a weekend retreat in Munich. There were about 11 of us, from all over Europe, and the small group created a safe space where we all received a lot of individual support and attention. The structure was two hours of meditation, followed by yoga, food, or a dharma talk. We did three sets on the first day and four on the second, totalling six hours of meditation on day one and eight on day two. An hour of gentle yoga was included on both days.
While two hours of sitting is challenging, there was the option to use a chair for those who had difficulty sitting, so it was beginner-friendly. I would strongly recommend bringing a meditation mat, as it helps you sit for longer. The group had a very mixed range of abilities, from people like me who were new to meditation (it was my first retreat) to very experienced practitioners. Despite this, I was able to participate in all the activities, which shows that it is possible if you feel called to it.
The food was mainly vegetarian and vegan, all made on site by the lama and our yogi teacher. There was a great variety and plenty of it, really tasty, and we all ate well. I personally lucked out with the accommodation, as it was an absolutely stunning space and only a two- to three-minute walk from the large hall where all our activities took place.
Moving on to the experience itself: as a novice, sitting had its challenges. For me, the first hour was usually OK; it was the second hour, particularly the last 20 minutes, when the discomfort became very loud. During the final meditation, I was able for a few minutes to really examine the discomfort and sit with it, and beyond it, with the energy it actually was. I could then use that energy to create a gentle pulsating sensation in my heart and hands. This was a profound experience, which I learnt a lot from
The silence was pleasant, and I found myself slightly reluctant to return to talking because it was so enjoyable. Not talking, however, does not mean silence, the world continues to make its noises. It was a good opportunity to listen more deeply
As for the dharma talks, I had never experienced Buddhist teachings laid out so clearly. The lama is extremely learned, and his teaching style is what I imagine of a Tibetan monk. He does not suffer fools, so be prepared to be challenged and to revisit old concepts as it is some of our mental frames themselves that contribute the most to suffering. He teaches more with fire to those old concepts than with water, if you know what I mean, and personally I appreciated this lack of pretence and direction.
If I had the opportunity to go again, I would.
You learn a lot about yourself when you are encouraged to meditate for as much as 14 hours over two days in silence. I’d say if you feel called, give it a go.
Akosua
UK
My experience during the retreat was very very painful. As a beginner meditator, I underestimated how mentally and especially physically demanding a Buddhist retreat can be.
The physical pain I endured made me unable to follow Lama Choga’s instructions. However, on the last day, I realized that I needed to follow my own path—focusing fully on the pain rather than becoming frustrated about not being able to follow the instructions. This shift allowed me to be at ease with the pain and became the foundation of the main lesson I learned during the retreat.
I am sure that, with more experience, I would have benefited more from the retreat, as Lama Choga’s knowledge and guidance were objectively great.
Don't go to the retreat expecting great insights or even enlightenment (especially if you are a beginner like me), but you can go to the retreat expecting to have a warm community, well-organized activities, thoughtful pedagogy and lovely meals in silence.
Thanks to the insight Sangha and to everyone who donated to make the retreat possible.
Miguel A.G.
Spain
I came with no expectations and was genuinely surprised by the guidance and depth of knowledge from Lama Choga. The retreat was amazingly deep and helped me realize I can sit much longer than I expected. Also, the way the retreat is organized really helps deepen the practice, because everything is truly centered around meditation.
The group was very harmonious, and I hope to stay in contact with many of them. It created a real sangha feeling.
Lama Choga gives me hope for authentic Dharma in the West, and this is something truly worthy of our support.
Thank you for the experience.
Warm regards
Alex
Alex S.
Germany
This short meditation retreat was organized well and it was clear that everything had a purpose. We were introduced to other participants with pizza and had a great evening, and during retreat we were quiet yet familiar with each other. Teachings were great and insighful, helped in both immediate meditation and general understanding, balanced to serve the needs of novice and experienced practitioners. Food was miraculous, I did not think vegetarian food may be that diverse and tasty. Yoga supported our practice, improved breathing and posture, as well as alleviated some pain - there were a lot of pain. Lama was kind and split our meditations into pieces by giving us minute to stand up and move, which was extremely helpful. I personally gained some insight and absolutely recommend that retreat to everyone. From the downsides, some answers to the questions seemed to be more evasive then direct, but this is probably due to retreat's format and objectives. Additionally, a diverse medical kit would be beneficial.
Best regards,
Oleksandr Babak
Oleksandr Babak
Slovakia
I had the very good fortune to attend a silent retreat remotely last weekend with Lama Choga. The retreat was held near Munich, Germany, and I joined from my home in western Canada via Zoom.
The meditation sessions were long and sometimes quite challenging. There were moments when I struggled to understand the subtlety of the practices, but Lama Choga’s guidance made a real difference. Often, just a few words of instruction would suddenly bring clarity, and I was able to settle back into the meditation as intended. I feel that the experience has genuinely deepened and strengthened my practice.
Each day also included a yoga session led by Jeannette, which was a welcome opportunity to stretch, relax, and reconnect with the body between long periods of sitting. I found these sessions both helpful and enjoyable.
If you ever have the opportunity to attend a retreat with Lama Choga or through Theory Samsara, I would warmly encourage you to take it. It was a meaningful and worthwhile experience for me.
Kind regards,
Philip
Philip McAdams
Canada
This is the second retreat I have participated in remotely, and this one had the advantage of being closer to my time zone. I feel fortunate to have this opportunity, as a it is difficult to find accessible, affordable and trustworthy meditation retreats and guidance.
I appreciated the intelligent structure of the program, with all the sessions combining to make sense as a whole. The atmosphere was warm, welcoming, supportive and firm; leading me to reflect that a bit more self kindness and self discipline would benefit my everyday practice.
Meditation sessions built up in length. Different techniques were used and developed, which allowed comparison across the sessions. The guided meditation had a sensitive lightness of touch, a gentle reminder of where to focus attention.
The talks gave context to the meditation techniques and explained their strengths and weaknesses.
The yoga sessions were a welcome complement to the other sessions, an opportunity to stretch out and stay flexible physically and mentally.
This was my experience; it may be of use to others considering a retreat and wondering will I be able to do this and what benefit will it have.
At times it was hard on the legs to stay in vajra posture, so when that seemed counter productive, I ate my pride and sat on a chair. Sometimes the mind rebelled insisting ‘when will it end’ but learned to just accept the thought let and it dissipate. Good, bad and ugly thoughts and emotions all appeared as well as moments of tranquillity. It became clearer to me how I can work with my mind. Levels of doubt were replaced with confidence. Coming out of retreat I am very aware of my post meditation state.
Thanks for the kindness of Lama Choga, Mary, Jannine in looking after us so well, the generosity of donors, the friendliness and questions from other participants. It is good to feel connected in this way.
Penny Crawley
Scotland
I was a remote attendant in Lama’s Germany weekend retreat. This had been my first formal retreat and I found it to be a substantial boost to my meditation practice.
We performed progressively more subtle meditations during the retreat and the later ones were certainly challenging. But Lama’s instructions and guidance during the meditation always grounded me in my motivation and helped me find footing.
In between sessions, we had yoga and meditation talks. In the talks, Lama would contextualize everything we were doing as well as address any questions about the meditation. The yoga was itself structured as meditation sessions and gave an air of freshness in the retreat.
Attending remotely was also no challenge at all, but I’d recommend you do the retreat from a quiet place if you have to join remotely. Overall, I would really recommend Lamas retreat and testify to their impact.
Omar F.
USA
Testimonials from the May 2025 Retreatants
This week of retreat was an amazing experience for me. I've been in the dharma for a while and received many teachings. I haven't been in retreat for a long time though and the setup of this retreat was very welcome in this period of my life.
I had the opportunity to deepen my practice tremendously in a very short time and at the same time having a growing insight about my personal habits and being in the world.
I'm absolutuly grateful to Lama Choga and his continuous effort to make this retreat work for all the attendants in a very authentic way. I'm grateful to my fellow practitioners who were a sincere and loving support.
And I'm so grateful to the donors without whom this whole event wouldn't have been possible. I rejoice in their merit.
May this dharma project continu to grow long into the future and be of benefit to countless beings.
Josine de Jong
The Netherlands
In May 2025 I had the good fortune to attend Lama Choga's one-week retreat at KDOL on Saltspring Island.
Having received many Dharma teachings over the years from different Tibetan Buddhist masters, I was inspired by the authenticity of the teaching and practice in this retreat, as well as by the care that was taken for all of us participants. I have full confidence in Lama Choga's motivation and deeply admire his aim of enabling students who aspire to experience and realize the truth of Buddha's teaching to enter into short and long-term retreats.
I am also very grateful to the sponsors of this retreat.
Among all the good causes out there that are worth supporting, enabling people to cultivate peace, compassion, and wisdom within themselves is probably the most important and a powerful cause for peace on Earth.
All the best,
Barry
Barry Cohen
The Netherlands
In May of 2025, I had the rare and precious opportunity to participate in the inaugural one week silent retreat of the Insight Sangha, led by Lama Choga, on Mt. Tuam, Saltspring Island, British Columbia.
I had been trying to develop a meditation practice in fits and starts for the previous year, with some success, but also a lot of frustration and lapses. This retreat acted as a sort of meditation boot camp for me. It was challenging, intense, clarifying, beautiful, and profound. I came away from the experience with a new sense of confidence and direction in my practice. I feel rooted in the methodology and lived experience of an authentic spiritual lineage that spans back in time for thousands of years. Lama Choga is a skillful instructor of both meditation and Buddhist philosophy, and he displays integrity and warmth in his conduct.
The facilitation of this retreat was modelled after the traditional economic arrangements between spiritual and lay communities in the lands where the dharma first flourished. There was no fee for instruction. All food and accommodation was provided. There was no financial barrier for earnest spiritual practitioners willing to devote themselves to meditating, studying, and contemplating in silence. This was made possible by the generosity of patrons who value the dharma so much, and who believe so fervently in the indispensable role that meditative practice plays in creating a healthy world, that they are willing to financially support aspirants who want to practice the Buddha’s teachings for the benefit of all sentient beings.
This kind of thing is unheard of in the west, where spirituality has, like all other wholesome pursuits, been largely subsumed by the imperatives of consumer culture—commodified, looted, and transformed into a venture for personal gain. Hopefully this retreat was the dawn of something new and influential: non-transactional dharma that is not dependent on or subservient to existing power structures and conventional values, available to all who wish to practice.
Clinton Smith
Canada
The silent retreat provided me with exactly the experience that I was capable of handling at that time. Due to certain food sensitivities, I was well-cared for and fed the appropriate foods to maintain a healthy digestion and support productive meditation sessions. My food was prepared with love and mindfulness, reflecting the care with which the entire program was organized. The yoga sessions were also prepared with that same standard and greatly helped me through the week; sitting for many hours daily can be physically demanding if the body is not properly conditioned. I highly recommend that anyone attending retreats participate in the yoga sessions. Lama Choga also prepared a series of teachings that enabled us to dive into the 37 Practices of a Bodhisattva, integrating them seamlessly with our meditation practices. I had a wealth of material to work with throughout the retreat. We were provided with so many crucial insights that really stuck with me. I am still processing what I learned and trying to integrate everything into my practice and how I experience my everyday activities in the world. Being my first retreat, this was an invaluable gift. I felt both cared for and challenged to push my boundaries. I met wonderful and sincere people, and I am grateful to have shared this retreat with them all. They each helped me learn important things about myself, and I hope to meditate with them again someday.
Mary Banks
USA
My experience in the Salt Spring Island retreat at KDOL with Lama Choga was amazing, not just because we were out in this beautiful natural forest but also because it was so important for my practice of meditation and life in general. It was exactly what I needed to be able to remember that I can sit for two hours meditating, that I can simply stop drinking coffee and I don't have to be on the phone all the time, nor watch TV. Things that in daily busy life we tend to get caught in, the retreat helped me get rid of it. The lesson I got was: do not let things dampen your potential! And that is what I am trying to follow now that I am back again in Samsaric life. Anyone that needs this reset, this disconnect and this mental cleanup should go to such retreats, and to think that I was sponsored by another Sangha member just makes me think that, yes, good things do happen and there are still good people. Thank you so much, love from Brazil! May this practice benefit all beings!
Arthur Olimpio
Brazil
How can I summarize an experience such as was this retreat? Profound, beautiful, difficult. It was all of these things, and so much more. I can honestly say it was a gift.
I deeply appreciated Lama Choga’s focus on imparting not just knowledge, but the path to wisdom. As someone coming to the retreat with no formal background in Buddhism, I valued how he always paired the ‘how’ with the ‘why.’ The emphasis on gaining insight through direct experience resonated with my own personal practice, but this retreat gave me a clearer understanding of the methods and imparted resilience to continue them at home.
Being in silence amidst the beautiful environment of Mount Tuam on Salt Spring Island offered space for deeper contemplation. As I turned inward, observing the thoughts and emotions that shape my cognitive processes, my perception of reality began to shift. This insight will continue to carry my spiritual practice forward long after the retreat.
Throughout the week, I witnessed Lama Choga’s sincere care and compassion for his students. His blunt, straightforward manner was refreshing, especially in contrast to the often confusing spiritual culture in the West, one sometimes clouded by empty platitudes and the promise of wisdom behind a paywall. I’m deeply grateful to have had this opportunity and for Lama Choga’s commitment to offering this path to others.”
Thank you for everything you do!!!
Kelly Reynolds
USA
Despite my lack of knowledge about vajrayana Buddhism, Lama Choga accepted me the way a true practitioner would. There is nothing forced about him as a practitioner or teacher. I never felt like I had to prove anything while participating in the silent retreat. While I do maintain a very basic level of practice at home, I was definitely ill prepared for the intensity of multiple hours of daily meditation while remaining completely silent. I seriously considered leaving in the middle of the night on the second day, but Lama Choga noticed my struggle and his gentle encouragement gave me enough strength to persist.
By the end of the retreat my entire disposition towards the experience has reversed, and I was quite sad to leave it behind. If I wasn't told that I participated in Lama Choga's first ever retreat, I would have assumed he had lead many in his lifetime. Everything was very seamless and comfortable. The accommodations were perfect, the food was excellent, and Choga is a treasure trove of knowledge in regards to Dharma. It's not easy to create an environment so appropriate for true self reflection, and that's exactly what Lama Choga provided. To say I recommend the experience is an understatement. You won't regret it.
I offer a sincere thanks to Lama Choga and everyone else involved in my retreat. While I may not have achieved final liberation this time, I learned a lot about myself, and that's more than I expected. Thank you.
Carl Livingston
Canada
Lama Choga very skilfully designed a schedule that would allow everybody to dive bit by bit deeper into meditation to investigate his or her own mind. That is what is lacking in the West - meditation is not only sitting still and clearing out all the garbage, but also about generating insight and trying to experience for oneself what is written in the old texts. That - bit by bit - can help to see the world through different eyes, understanding phenomena in an unexpected and profound way and starting to sense that there is something behind all that veils - something that has no beginning and no end.
Jeannette Stowasser
Germany
The week I spent here was a genuine life changer. My mind was opened to whole different modes of operation. I was challenged, so much so that I really felt under prepared. The meditation and teaching sessions were demanding of intense focus. I spent 10 hours a day sleeping in recovery. I am glad for the incremental approach to the length of sessions. Choga has a gentle but firm attitude and a good sense of humor. Highly recommended
Casey Albright
USA
Testimonials from the Autumn Retreat 2025
My first experience in silent retreat was beautiful, challenging, and empowering. Having very little prior knowledge about Buddhism, I found Lama Choga’s instructions provided an excellent comprehensive introduction for a beginner like myself. He is incredibly attuned to the individual needs of his students and was endlessly supportive of those who needed emotional or physical assistance.
Within two days of being in retreat I found myself filled with overwhelming existential questions, and a feeling that my old sense of blissful ignorance had been shaken up irreparably. Being in silence meant I had ample time and opportunity to contemplate these thoughts and feelings, and it has started me on a journey of growth and insight. The retreat catapulted me onto a path that I’d previously been too frightened and distracted to explore, and I feel excited to continue learning.
I have so much gratitude for Lama Choga’s generosity, for the support and care I felt from my fellow retreatants, and for all of those who contributed to making this retreat possible. Thank you!
Amelia
Canada
Reading my horoscope in a Salt Spring publication upon arrival at the ferry terminal it offered this prediction: "This next week will be a complete waste of time." I laughed at the sheer particularity and it had my curiosity piqued. The autumn retreat was far from a waste of time by any conventional definition - great food, companionship, teaching, location, removal from the distractions of the mundane world. But in another more meaningful sense it was just the "waste of time" I needed. To have a glimpse again of a truth that I can't think my way out of my problems, that my thoughts are of a quality and origin that remains elusive yet seems so concrete and certain upon my initial perception of them...something about the persistent, structured (though not militaristic) practice offered by the retreat invigorated a connection to deeper understanding I hadn't picked up on before. Unforgettable.
Carson Redden
Canada
My first week long silent meditation retreat was a wonderful experience filled with great people, insight and reflection. Couldn’t have asked for a more beautiful and peaceful space.
Shery Gu
Canada
After arriving home this morning and trying to get back into my routine I realized how energized, full of joy and love I felt while at the silent retreat, a stark contrast to how my current situation feels like at home; which made me think that a profound transformation has taken place within me.
I have only beautiful things to say about the experience of the silent retreat, and it has definitely made me aware of the longing that I carry internally for the Three Jewels.
Daily meditation and study allowed me to fully immerse myself within to experience brief moments of deep joy and tranquility and most importantly, these experiences were the catalyst of my renewed perspective on my personal life…that living it deprived of a disciplined spiritual practice is not a choice for me anymore🙏
Thank you Lama Choga for taking the time and effort to share your knowledge and for your delicious cooking.
Drolkar
USA
The October 2025 retreat (my second weeklong silent retreat) was beautiful. It was powerful and inspiring to be among such a lovely group of kind-hearted beings gathered together for the shared purpose of sincere spiritual practice. Everybody applied themselves and made valuable contributions to our communal experience. I witnessed some moving moments of personal evolution as people met the challenges of the spiritual path with courage and compassion. I uncovered a few layers of armour myself, and felt emboldened and supported to explore what was underneath. The meditation sessions and dharma talks were a good balance of challenge and accessibility. Lama Choga is a skillful instructor of Buddhist meditation and doctrine, but his deepest value as a teacher comes from the example he sets as a seeker among seekers. This is an example of generosity, humility, loving kindness and compassion, unwavering faith, diligence, honesty, and tireless service.
Clinton Smith
Canada
Though this retreat was designed for beginners and I am not one, I learned a great deal. In particular, observing my thoughts in a structured way was very helpful in my effort to understand their true nature.
These teachings are difficult to find—who would ever ask which colors your thoughts have, or where they dwell? Looking inward in a practical, experiential way is so valuable, because only through direct insight can we truly understand ourselves, instead of merely repeating what is written in books. From what I experienced during the retreat, I can now continue my investigations, which have the potential to transform the way I relate to my thoughts—the very lens through which I perceive the world.
Jeannette Stowasser
Germany
This retreat was a great introduction for a beginner like me. Amazing hospitality, healthy meals. The meditations were challenging with the gain of practical insight and practice; for the benefit of all sentient beings.
Cody Spinelli
Canada
When I came across the retreat announcement, I had been looking for a retreat for nearly two years. They were all so inaccessible either physically or financially or both, that I decided that a retreat is not for me, but for those with means.
This one however was close by and free. It came to my life at the time when I needed it most, as I was losing my practice without the support of the Three Jewels. It is not only that the retreat helped me to finally get back to my daily practice after nearly a year, but the fact that I gained so many invaluable insights in the course of just one week is testimony that Lama Choga created the right conditions for us to practice. May the precious mind of awakening never diminishes in him but forever continue to flourish and thrive.
Sara Ganj
Canada
The one week silent retreat I attended was an incredible experience. Being a total greenhorn, I learned a lot about Buddhism and meditation and also myself. Lama Choga is an amazing man and I’m so grateful for having the opportunity to be in retreat with him. I don’t think it’s hyperbolic to say that this retreat changed my life. I am now interested in Buddhism, meditating daily and am very much keen on continuing to expand my spirituality. Thank you to Lama Choga, Clinton, KDOL and Lucie.
Scott Taylor
Canada
When I came across the retreat announcement, I had been looking for a retreat for nearly two years. They were all so inaccessible either physically or financially or both, that I decided that a retreat is not for me, but for those with means.
This one however was close by and free. It came to my life at the time when I needed it most, as I was losing my practice without the support of the three jewels. It is not only that the retreat helped me to finally get back to my daily practice after nearly a year, but the fact that I gained so many invaluable insights in the course of just one week is testimonial that Lama Choga created the right environment for us to practice. May the precious mind of awakening never diminishes in him but forever continue to flourish and thrive.