Tara Mandala

Refuge, Renewal, Retreat in the San Juans.

United States Colorado paid

set amidst 700 acres of rolling hills and meadows in the San Juan Mountains, Tara Mandala offers a unique sanctuary for those seeking refuge and renewal. This vibrant international Buddhist community, under the spiritual guidance of Lama Tsultrim Allione, is a place where traditional Tibetan Buddhist practices intertwine with contemporary approaches to meditation, mindfulness, and personal development. The land itself is considered a mandala, with a stunning peak at its center and four surrounding valleys, creating a deeply immersive and sacred environment. Solo retreat cabins are scattered across the landscape, providing ample opportunity for deep contemplation, while the extraordinary three-level Tara Temple stands as a dedication to the sacred feminine. Tara Mandala provides a space for diverse retreats, including yoga and women's programs, all supported by delicious organic vegetarian meals.

Highlights

700-acre property considered a natural mandala
Three-level Tara Temple dedicated to the sacred feminine
Solo retreat cabins for deep personal practice
Guided by Lama Tsultrim Allione, author of "Feeding Your Demons"
Delicious organic vegetarian meals served buffet style

Good for

experienced meditatorssolo retreatantsnature loversTibetan Buddhist practitionerswomen's retreats

Setting

Tara Mandala is situated on 700 acres in the majestic San Juan Mountains of Colorado, bordering the San Juan National Forest and Southern Ute Tribal Land. The landscape is a natural mandala, featuring rolling hills, lush meadows adorned with wildflowers, serene ponds, and dense forests. This expansive and beautiful setting provides a profound sense of peace and connection to nature, ideal for deep contemplation and spiritual practice.

The practice

While the specific tradition is not explicitly stated, Tara Mandala is a vibrant international Buddhist community. Retreats here encompass a range of practices including meditation, mindfulness, yoga, and traditional Tibetan Buddhist practices. Visitors can expect to engage in structured sessions designed to deepen their spiritual understanding and personal development, often guided by experienced teachers.

A typical day

Daily schedules at Tara Mandala vary significantly depending on the specific retreat program. However, guests can generally expect a rhythm that includes structured meditation or practice sessions, communal organic vegetarian meals, and opportunities for personal reflection within the expansive natural setting. Check the specific retreat schedule for detailed daily activities.

Accommodation

The center offers numerous solo retreat cabins scattered across the expansive landscape, designed to facilitate deep and undisturbed personal retreats. While specific details about other lodging options are not provided, the focus on solo cabins suggests a strong emphasis on individual practice and quietude.

What to bring

Given the Colorado mountain setting, pack layers for varying temperatures, especially during cooler months. Comfortable clothing for meditation and walking, along with sturdy shoes for exploring the 700-acre property, are advisable. Consider bringing a refillable water bottle.

Address Pagosa Springs, Colorado, United States

How to get there

Tara Mandala is located near Pagosa Springs, Colorado. It's a 90-minute drive from Durango's La Plata County Airport (DRO) and approximately 4.5 hours from Albuquerque. The nearest international airport is Denver (DIA). Guests are responsible for arranging their own ground transportation, with shuttle services available from Durango.

Nearest airport: City of Colorado Springs Municipal Airport (COS) (79 km)

While Tara Mandala does not provide direct airport transfers, they recommend Wilderness Journeys Pagosa for ground transport from Durango Airport (DRO), which is about 90 minutes away. Group discounts may be available for this service.

Nearest city: Colorado Springs

Languages

English

Pricing

Tara Mandala operates on a paid model, with specific costs varying by retreat program and accommodation choice.

Climate

Climate Zone: Cold continental

Best Months: Mar, Nov, Jan

Avoid: May, Jul, Aug

Tara Mandala experiences a varied climate in the Colorado mountains. The warmest months are typically June, July, and August, while January, February, and December are the coolest. The driest periods occur in January, March, and November, with May, July, and August being the wettest. Be prepared for diverse weather conditions depending on the season of your visit.

Location

Frequently asked questions

What kind of food is served at Tara Mandala?

All meals at Tara Mandala are delicious, vegetarian, made with organic ingredients, and served buffet style. The kitchen staff ensures an abundant offering with a variety of styles and culinary traditions. Tea stations with a wide selection of teas and coffee are available 24 hours in the Community Building and Temple.

Are there options for those with dietary restrictions?

Yes, Tara Mandala offers a range of dietary options including vegan, organic, gluten-free, dairy-free, and nut-free meals to accommodate various needs.

How can I get to Tara Mandala?

Tara Mandala is a 25-minute drive from Pagosa Springs, Colorado. The closest airport is La Plata County Airport in Durango (DRO), about 90 minutes away. Albuquerque airport is 4.5 hours away, and Denver (DIA) is the closest international airport. Guests are responsible for arranging their own transportation, with shuttle services like Wilderness Journeys Pagosa recommended from Durango Airport.

What types of retreats are offered?

Tara Mandala hosts retreats in various areas including meditation, mindfulness, yoga, personal development, women’s retreats, and traditional Tibetan Buddhist practices.

Can I do a solo retreat at Tara Mandala?

Yes, Tara Mandala is home to numerous solo retreat cabins scattered across the landscape, specifically designed for deep personal retreats.