Kagyu Changchub Chuling

Vajrayana wisdom, urban and rural.

United States Portland Tibetan paid

Kagyu Changchub Chuling (KCC) offers a vibrant hub for Vajrayana Buddhist meditation right in Portland, Oregon. Founded in 1976 by the esteemed Kyabje Kalu Rinpoche, a master of both the Karma Kagyu and Shangpa Kagyu lineages, KCC provides a rich schedule of classes, retreats, and events throughout the year. Beyond its urban center, KCC also boasts a sprawling 240-acre retreat center, Ser Chö Ösel Ling (SCOL), set near Goldendale, Washington. Whether you're looking for weekly practices and study groups in the city or seeking longer residential retreats in a more secluded setting, KCC caters to various levels of meditators with programs led by both resident lamas and visiting teachers. It's a place where deep spiritual practice meets accessible community engagement.

Highlights

Founded by renowned meditation master Kyabje Kalu Rinpoche
Offers both an urban center in Portland and a 240-acre rural retreat center
Ambitious schedule of classes and retreats with resident and visiting teachers
Focus on Vajrayana, Karma Kagyu, and Shangpa Kagyu Tibetan Buddhism

Good for

experienced meditatorsbeginnersTibetan Buddhist practitionersurban dwellersnature lovers

Setting

The main center is located in an urban setting in NE Portland, Oregon, providing easy access to weekly practices and community events. For deeper immersion, the Ser Chö Ösel Ling (SCOL) retreat center offers a more secluded, natural environment on 240 acres near Goldendale, Washington, ideal for longer residential retreats.

The practice

Kagyu Changchub Chuling practices Vajrayana Buddhism, specifically within the Karma Kagyu and Shangpa Kagyu lineages. This tradition emphasizes a path to enlightenment through various meditation techniques, including visualization, mantra recitation, and guru yoga. Beginners can expect to learn foundational meditation practices and engage in study groups exploring Buddhist teachings.

A typical day

Daily structure varies significantly depending on if you are attending a weekly practice in Portland or a residential retreat at Ser Chö Ösel Ling. Retreats typically involve a structured schedule of meditation sessions, teachings, and communal meals. For specific daily rhythms, it's best to consult the schedule for your chosen program.

Accommodation

Accommodation details are not explicitly provided for the Portland center. For retreats at the Ser Chö Ösel Ling (SCOL) retreat center, residential options are available, though specific room types are not detailed.

What to bring

Given Portland's varied climate, pack layers. For retreats, comfortable clothing suitable for meditation is advisable. Consider bringing rain gear for wetter months (November-March) and lighter clothing for warmer periods (July-September).

Website www.kcc.org

Phone (503) 284 6657

Email [email protected]

Address 73 NE Monroe Portland OR 97212

How to get there

The urban center is located at 73 NE Monroe, Portland, OR 97212. For the Ser Chö Ösel Ling retreat center, driving or carpooling is recommended, with exact directions provided upon registration.

Nearest airport: Portland International Airport (PDX) (7 km)

Portland International Airport (PDX) is approximately 7 km from the Portland center. KCC does not offer airport pickups for either location.

Nearest city: Portland

Languages

English

How to book

Information on the booking process is not explicitly detailed, but typically involves registering through their website.

Pricing

Retreats are paid and start from USD 75. Specific pricing will depend on the program length and type.

Interested in this center? Check availability and upcoming retreats on their official site.

Visit Kagyu Changchub Chuling website

Climate

Climate Zone: Temperate

Best Months: Jul, Aug, Sep

Avoid: Dec, Nov, Mar

Portland experiences a temperate climate. Summers (July-September) are generally warm and dry, making them pleasant for visits. Winters (December-February) are cool and wet, so be prepared for rain. Spring and autumn offer mild temperatures with varying precipitation.

Location

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between the Portland center and Ser Chö Ösel Ling?

The Portland center offers weekly practices, study groups, and special events in an urban setting. Ser Chö Ösel Ling (SCOL) is a 240-acre rural retreat center near Goldendale, Washington, primarily used for residential retreats ranging from weekends to longer durations.

Are the retreats suitable for beginners?

Yes, KCC offers programs designed to support meditators at all levels, including those new to Buddhist practice. Their calendar features classes covering diverse Buddhist teachings and topics, as well as retreats.

What kind of meals are provided during retreats?

During retreats, KCC offers a variety of dietary options including vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, and dairy-free meals to accommodate different needs.

How do I get to the Ser Chö Ösel Ling retreat center?

KCC recommends driving or carpooling to SCOL, as airport pickups are not available. Exact directions are shared upon registration to ensure the tranquility of the retreatants.

What is the cost of attending a retreat?

Pricing for retreats starts from USD 75. Specific costs will depend on the duration and type of retreat you choose.