WOW! What an experience! I have just returned from a 3 day retreat at Vajrapani led by Scott Snibbe, author of How to Train a Happy Mind: A Skeptic's Path to Enlightenment. I cannot imagine a better set and setting for such a profound condensation of this amazing book.   Vajrapani (or more formally Vajrapani Institute for Wisdom Culture) is hidden high in the mountains above Santa Cruz at the end of a 4-mile narrow unpaved road that winds up through a coastal redwood forest where the drive feels like a passage to another world. The site is highlighted by a gathering hall decked with Buddhist icons that naturally lends itself to meditation, and the variety to accommodations range from private hillside cabins and inexpensive same-sex dormatories to campsites and campervan parking. A huge prayer wheel anchors the outside meditation areas, and a few short hiking trails on the 70-acre property are well maintained and open to adjacent Castle Rock State Park for the more adventurous.  Vegan meals are provided to all guests and delivered to the cabins for those in private retreat or served in the dining area below the main hall. There is also a large library of books focusing on all things Buddhist.   To this, add any of a variety of teaching retreats on various aspects of Buddhism and you have a phenomenal opportunity to deepen your spiritual awareness regardless of your religious orientation.   I had the great fortune to attend Scott Snibbe's inaugural presentation of How to Train a Happy Mind. Through storytelling, teachings, critical thinking and frequent short meditations, Scott led us through the Tibetan Buddhist lamrin "stages of the path," a series of analytical meditations that steer the mind away from frustration, craving and loneliness to happiness, connection and satisfaction. Scott is an amazingly skillful teacher using humor, anecdotes, personal experiences and years of study to weave together a training that is both dense and accessible on the essence of Buddhist psychology and philosophy without the dogma of ideas like reincarnation and karma that are so off-putting to Western minds. I am not a Buddhist but now have a much deeper understanding of the brilliance of this 2500-year-old tradition and its powerful relevance to creating a life well lived. It especially broadened my understanding of the value and virtue of cultivation compassion, which I can feel is already greatly expanding a loving connection with all that is.   Two big thumbs up for Vajrapani and Scott Snibbe! Both are very special. read more

The Kopan West Retreat in March was amazing! Staff were super nice and accommodating. Highly recommend read more

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What a beautiful retreat with Venerable Rene. The setting was very peaceful, deep in the redwood forest. The food was very good and health. It is a world away from the hustle and bustle of daily life. read more

Vajrapani Institute - Buddhist Temples Near Me - Boulder Creek, California

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I highly recommend the Vajrapani Institute for many reasons... It is in a beautiful location surrounded by redwood trees & is a restorative healing place. There is so much peace at Vajrapani with years of prayers & blessings. Consider giving yourself a retreat there or spend the day or visit when there's a Teaching... You will be grateful that you gave this to yourself. ; ) read more

Amazing place. So many blessings from the great masters. I felt real peace of mind and stillness of nature

Vajrapani Is a special, magical, healing retreat in the wondrous redwoods. I have been there three times and camped in a very private and quiet camping spot. The retreat I attended was How To Train a Happy Mind and was led by Scott Snibbe. I loved everything about this experience. Scott has a warm, friendly, knowledgeable approach filled with many stories and much humor (not all Buddhists are super serious!). The teachings are truly a path to a happy life. Is there anyone who doesn't strive for that? I am glad that Scott has written a book (of the same name as the retreat) so I can study and practice the steps he so skillfully taught. The vegetarian food was wonderful, the library of books extensive, and the chances to unwind and just "be" were many. I highly recommend Vajrapani as well as Scott's retreat. read more

I recently attended a week long seminar at Vajrapani which provided an overview of the FPMT Organization to which Vajrapani is affiliated. The seminar was packed with useful information, interactive practices and meditations. The land is exquisite - a quiet, forest with stupas and a giant prayer wheel, deer and a multitude of birds. There are hiking trails including one into Castle Rock State Park. The staff is kind, the food is great, the accommodations are perfect. I've been coming to Vajrapani for 40 years and have watched it grow into the great jewel it is today. Kudos to the stewards who have shepherded it through the ages. read more

My experience staying at Vajrapani Institute for an 8 day retreat is unmatched. Every aspect of the center exceeded my expectations. The directors, staff and students were all genuinely warm and very approachable. The retreat teachings were profoundly transformational and the monastics and teacher created an energy of warmth and receptivity. All were approachable for questions. The physical beauty is hard to describe. Picture giant redwood trees that tower over the cozy cabins, dorms and private rooms, everything clean and comfortable - with well-marked hiking trails just steps away; humming birds everywhere, stupas, prayer wheels, statues, a large library of books, open Gompa time, open access to tea, coffee fresh fruit any time day or night. The perfect conditions for a deeply restorative and contemplative week. Cannot recommend highly enough. read more

I have been to Vajrapani many times over the years, but this was my first time back since the pandemic. How wonderful to return to such a peaceful, natural environment, perfect for time away from regular life. The cabins on the ridge are thoughtfully designed to allow for all kinds of spiritual and solitary activities (meditation, reading, communing with nature, yoga, writing, etc) with opportunities for walks on the property or nearby state park. And the vegetarian food is as delicious as ever! definitely infused with great care, if not actually with love! read more

A wonderful healing place full of magic and wonder. And that is just the trees. Now you have the beautiful art, and people. I was fortunate to meet the Dali Lama here as a child. The power of that meeting, carried over to today. I have been blessed in my healing life to touch back on the experiences here, the events, retreats, wisdom to claim power and serenity in my life. One can only get better here. The beauty seeps into your soul. I went to a day visit with a friend as a guest years ago (one of many visits) during my early battle with cancer. These people are truly healers. The amount of compassion, respect, peace and clarity is real blessing. One can find the universe here. In all its blessings. read more

Have you ever been having such an amazing experience away that every part of you never wants to go home?! I don't know if its a common thing for people, but it's rare that I feel this way, because usually my home is exactly the way I want it: plush, comfy and clean. Funny how Vajrapani Institute does not exactly fit in the "plush" category...but I absolutely did not want to leave. There are various group retreats and workshops available here for all of those that are interested, as well as individual retreats. I just finished what I would call a "Meditation Marathon" over the course of five days. I had no idea what to expect except for a rustic retreat with vegetarian meals and a shift in my perspective. Each person that stays at Vajrapani, if they should be so lucky, could expect some things for certain: ~ Ahhhhmmaazing Vegetarian Meals ( that are very filling and make you feel like you could be eating at a vegetarian restaurant in the sky) for lunch and dinner. ~ Noble Silence. There are some areas that require complete silence which is where the private cabins are up on the ridge. Other areas ask that you whisper via signs posted. And some retreats ask that you even carry that silence everywhere excluding the lectures and activities with the teacher (which was the case in mine). ~ Breathtaking views, especially from the outdoor showers that over look the Santa Cruz Mountains towards the Southwest. ~ Uber nice staff, volunteers, and animals. :) I've never seen deer so close, that don't budge, no matter how close you are!? I don't know how fond I was of the screaming squirrels (which I though were birds), but I still like to think of them as nice. ~ There are four main accommodations I know of: 1. Cabins-- that's where I stayed. This is the creme de la creme of Vajrapani. I will definitely return for a weekend trip as soon as I can make the time. The cabins have sinks (on the porch), a twin bed, propane stove, small closet, alter, bedding, meditation cushions, water pitchers, silverware, cups, plates, a teapot, a couple pitchers, candles and about enough room for two yoga mats along the floor. They lock with a key, and also come with access to cleaning supplies and a broom if you find the need for them. The bathhouse is a very close, flat walk, which includes a stand up shower, sink and toilet. They were built in the 90s and totally feel like they could be an extension of someone's home. 2. Dorms-- (up a flight of stairs). I peeked inside. The beds look like what I would imagine they would look like on a cruise ship or train car. Small twin beds stacked/ coming out of the wall. Tight quarters, but appear to be sufficient enough if you're watching your wallet. These dorms actually have a bathroom right next to them just outside the door of the dorm. 3. Private rooms. These are ground level and in the same building as the dorms. There aren't too many of these...(maybe only six or seven.) They look more spacious than the dorms and obviously offer a little more privacy. The retreaters who stay in these are also granted access to the outdoor showers and ridge bath houses up the hill. 4. BYOT-- Bring your own tent. Pretty self explanatory. I would suggest checking out the website for more information in that regard. ;) A few tips I would give you.. If you are curious or even remotely interested: ~ I would not stay on the ridge unless physically fit-- that is if you plan to come down to the mediation hall/main office/dining hall/ Gomba at any point in time. ~If you're planning to do your own silent retreat on the hill, they do help you get you and your belongings up to your cabin and do provide lunch and dinner via meal bags near the fridge on the ridge. The fridge is there for you to store your own food as well as them filling it daily with snacks, fresh fruit, hard boiled eggs and so on. ~ Try their house made granola. I'm usually not a fan of granola-- but I didn't want to go rummaging through the fridge (outdoors near the bathhouse) in the middle of the night, so I decided to opt for their offering in the cabin. WOW. What do these people put in their food? I don't mean to sound like a glutton-- but I would probably go back just for the food, and coffee and tea and even their dessert. I could go on and on about my experience, but each person has their own. I have shared a ton about this majestic place in hopes that it will help someone at some point-- and if not, oh well, I had fun reminiscing about my favorite new place in the Santa Cruz Mountains, just a short drive away from my home. read more

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I went here this past weekend on a few day retreat so I will review the grounds of Vajrapani, not the yoga/qi gong retreat itself (which was awesome btw). Getting up to the property can be a challenge, but it is seriously worth the drive! The staff was all so friendly and warm, instantly making you feel like a part of their community. They all live there and take a lot of pride in the land, their service and your experience. I stayed in a private cabin up in Lama's Ridge. Even in the storm, it was incredible! It's a small space designed for one. The bed was very comfortable and the patio was perfect for reading amidst the redwoods. There's a 2 stove burner to heat your tea or meal. The ridge is a silent area, very peaceful with breathtaking views & a world away from your world. Turn off your cell (because you do get reception up there) and enjoy. It's like camping with amenities steps from the private cabins: showers (bot indoor & outdoor), restrooms, a mini fridge in case you feel like a piece of fruit or making a PBJ at midnight. The outdoor (private) showers were my favorite thing - like a little piece of heaven on earth. (SEE PIC) In the dining area, you have your choice of tea, fruits, being spoiled with 3 prepared meals, visiting the library or spending time in meditation in the gompa. Energy galore, you will feel connected with something greater than yourself. Be warned. If you're not on a retreat, you are provided with a meal bag brought up to your cabin, so you essentially stay nestled in your own little world for the duration of your stay. I did see others who were staying in the cabins not from our retreat group coming down to the dining room. I will return here when I need a non-social weekend away. It's close enough yet so far from the daily rut. Your mind will thank you for the retreat and you will be thanking Vajrapani for the opportunity. read more

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From the moment I arrived at Vajrapani, I felt an immediate sense of peace and calm. The staff warmly greeted me and showed me around the grounds. I camped during my retreat and I loved it. The silence for 5 days was such a relief for my soul. The food was nutritious and delicious! I gleaned so much from our meditation teacher and really saw a deepening in my understanding of meditation. The majestic towering redwoods and the various trails and paths brought me great joy during my stay. I would definitely recommend doing a retreat at Vajrapani and I will definitely return. read more

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I recently stayed at Vajrapani for a weekend MBSR seminar. Although I've been practicing for almost 5 years, this was my first retreat. I really loved the whole experience because it was a good mix of meditation/group discussions and personal free time. The weekend was labeled a partial silent course, but in all honestly, I wouldn't have minded longer periods of silence. I stayed at the semi-private room, which included four bunk beds. The accommodations are sparse but when you're at a retreat like this, any hint of luxury can be a distraction to your practice so I was appreciative of living simply for the weekend. All meals are vegetarian. I'm not vegetarian but I never felt hungry. The meals are simple and delicious. They also accommodate those who have special allergies. Seating is such that you can either eat alone in silence while observing the beautiful scenery, or sit with others in a communal table and talk. The staff is super nice, all my fellow practitioners were friendly, and this was an incredibly relaxing, mentally cleansing experience overall. I am definitely going back for periodic tune-ups. read more

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I love Vajrapani Institute! I have attended several retreats there with various teachers and they have all been amazing. Each time I've come home fully refreshed and ready to start implementing the teachings. The peacefulness of the redwood trees, the silence and beautiful views from the ridge take you immediately to the place of stillness within you. You know that you are in a sacred place. The accommodations are comfortable, food is excellent and staff super friendly. I highly recommend to join any of their retreats. They seem to all be very well thought through and offered by highly knowledgeable teachers. read more

This place is amazing! The dormitory is comfortable and nice. The land itself is beautiful. An amazing experience in every way!

This is the third in my series of retreat center reviews. Sometimes, a gal's gotta go someplace quiet to Roto-Rooter her information-overloaded brain! It takes a while to get to Vajrapani (and I'd hate to try that dirt road off of Hwy 9 in the winter) but when I arrived to the happy colorful Tibetian Buddhist flags flying about, something inside went, "alright!" You have to be driven to the retreat cabins, which are even farther up the mountain and border Castle Rock State Park. One unintended effect of being basically at the summit of the Santa Cruz Mountains is getting the noise of planes on their final descent to SJC. Ironic when you're trying to be one with nature, eh? The main meal of the day is delivered at lunch (with soup and salad to store for dinner), and there's plenty of food in the pantry and in your kitchen to make breakfast. Lots of deer about, along with a sweet cat who apparently makes the rounds to everyone's back decks once a day. Plenty of privacy, and the cabins are in fabulous shape. Shared showers are clean. If it weren't so noisy here (again, how ironic), I'd go back in a heartbeat. Prices are very reasonable for cabins, starting at $80/night. read more

A great place, like a refuge, makes me feel safe, peaceful and ultimately happy. It inspired me a lot, taught me a lot, and also reminded me a lot of things I forgot but are so important for the inner peace. I knew I turned to someone I don't like, but don't know how to transform it. The retreat there helped me a lot. Thank you again for all the teachers and staffs there to make it happen. Venerable Tenzin Chogkyi is amazing! read more

I love this place. The staff are just wonderful. Know that this is not a 5 star retreat place this is people who are dedicated to helping the world by providing a silent space for people to meditate, contemplate and generally escape the type A race. I found it delightfully silent though there is the occasional noise from passing aircraft, the odd dog. Incredibly quiet compared to LA. The food was just out of this world. Simple, healthy and extremely tasty and servings that were just the right size. If I could ship that food to LA daily I would! The redwoods - amazing being in amongst them. Deers grazing past as you meditate. The price is very good. Facilities are perfect. Simple, clean, comfortable (this is not a luxury retreat). Will continue to recommend this place to people and will return. read more

Vajrapani Institute is an amazing and serene place to disconnect from the stresses of everyday life. I participated in the Kopan West: A Practical Guide to True Happiness which provides a complete, yet basic understanding of Buddhist principles and practices. This program is great for beginners. As a "spiritual but not religious" person, I found valuable tools to further my personal practice. The retreat was led by Venerable Tenzin Chogkyi, an inspiring and knowledgeable teacher. She is grounded and makes the lessons plans understandable and interesting for all levels. If you have a chance to join a retreat with Venerable, I highly recommend it. I stayed in the dormitory. I recommend the bottom bunk, as the top bunks have the ladder in a tricky angle. I was grateful to be in the main dorm, as I learned the semi-private accommodations do not have curtains. The meals were healthful and delicious. They have a tea and snack station in case you get hungry in between meals. I grew an attachment for the lemon tahini dressing and was glad to purchase the recipe book. This program, and many others in the coming year, are offered in the pay it forward program. It is designed to allow those with financial challenges to attend at no cost. Although I agree 100% with the motive and intention of the program, I was disappointed at the minimal donations left but the 28 participants. It's not a free vacation. If you plan to go, be as generous as they are to you, and help support the sustainability of Vajrapani Institute. read more

Absolutely wonderful place. The grounds are very secluded and quiet. There are plenty of inspiring areas with stupas and the like, as well as a small hiking trail that runs alongside a gentle stream. If you want a more energetic hike, the property is adjacent to and has a trail connecting it to a state park with unlimited hiking opportunities and spectacular views in all directions. I stayed in the dorms and everything was clean and comfortable, including the dorm's shared bathroom. There are also semi private accommodations as well as private cabins in a fully silent area on top of a beautiful ridge. Anyone staying there also has access to "outdoor" showers that are fully enclosed other than the large opening on one side looking over a small valley and into the surrounding mountain ridges. Set up just right so that you have your privacy but can still feel like you're outdoors. Although its a bit cold in the early morning, the hot water will keep you warm if you're an early riser and inspired to take a shower with a view of the stars or the sunrise! The food was fantastic (vegetarian of course, but plenty of dairy and eggs) and they customize their menu to ensure everyone has multiple choices so that whether you are vegan, have allergies, or are simply avoiding certain foods, you'll have plenty. I have allergies to lentils and soy which are staples of most vegetarian diets and I still had no problem filling my plate with a variety of foods. They serve the food buffet style, though I hear that people renting the private cabins have their meals brought up to them 3 times a day! What really made the difference for me, however, was the staff. Every staff member was truly happy to be there and took pleasure in helping each and every one of the guests. Even during silent portions of my retreat when I would walk through the dining area and glance at a staff member working in the kitchen, they would greet you with a genuine smile. The "administrative" staff especially, was so full of joy, that they were inspirational. Finally, my retreat was guided by the Venerable Tenzin Chogkyi, whom I can't thank enough. Her ability to communicate the teachings was top notch. She was mindful of everybody's emotions, always cheerful, and constantly making people laugh. At the same time, her explanations were very meaningful and thought provoking, she showed the most sincere empathy for anyone with emotional pain and suffering, and constantly adjusted her "game plan" based upon the feedback and questions of everyone present. I would consider myself fortunate to have the opportunity to learn from her again in the future. read more

I was introduced to Vajrapani through the Center for Spiritual Enlightenment in San Jose and loved the experience so much I've been back on my own on two different occasions. I attended two separate silent retreats and found the grounds peaceful, safe and calming. The food is all vegetarian and so yummy, I was seriously considering converting! The drive is a challenge however if you consider the destination it becomes a breeze, as soon as I get to the last half mile I begin to feel a sense of serenity in that I know I will truly be able to unplug from the outside world and leave all the anxiousness behind me for a few days. I find it to be a real treat. How often can you really go 'off the grid' and be supported by the staff with meal deliveries and hike to your hearts content? Give yourself the time to just BE! Your spirit, body and mind will thank you for it! read more

Thank you Vajrapani! Vajrapani is a powerfully healing place, and we in the Bay Area are blessed to have it in our midst. I've been three times now. Each time has been wonderful, and I've noticed that by the third day my mind is clear, my headaches gone, and my capacity to re-appreciate the world with compassion and interest renewed. The mission of Vajrapani is something like, to provide a place of quiet contemplation to assist humans on their path to enlightenment, for the benefit of all beings. How beautiful is that? And they really are committed to exactly that amazing purpose. I so value the silence and opportunity to meditate, read, think, walk, and be free of the digital noise for a few days. It has truly opened a window, and the lessons stay with you. I'll be incorporating periods of silence into my life now, maybe a day a month and a quarterly weekend - just to access that healing place where you sort of dissolve as an individual into a great awareness. The cabins are rustic, clean and comfy, and the vegetarian food, delivered near the cabins, is both simple and absolutely scrumptious. I realize a silent retreat is not for everyone. I would have had trouble 10 years ago. They do also have group retreats with a large meeting hall, just often broken with periods of silence. That might be a good way for some folks to test the waters. In sum, if you can pull it off, you owe it to yourself to experience what Vajrapani so generously has to offer. I am deeply and genuinely grateful for those sacred grounds and the wonderful people who take such loving care of both the place and the visitors. read more

As an extrovert I was very nervous going into a week long silent (Vipassana) Retreat (within the Mahayana Tradition). It was an incredible experience. The Venerable Losang Gendun was extremely knowledgable, and insightful. The evening teachings were entertaining and informative. It was a transformative experience. I am ready to go back! The staff were helpful. The meals fantastic. The group that I retreated with were kind and encouraging. It was amazing how much one can come to appreciate someone being there walking in the same place, or sitting on the same cushion for support. I miss the quiet and calm of the world at Vajrapani! read more

Outstanding organization that creates authentic and accessible experiences for interested persons of all stripes. Don't let the dirt road intimidate you. Slow down to get into the right mindset. :-) Ask about financial assistance. That shouldn't be a burden. The recent meditation retreat was fruitful for both uncertain beginners ("what is this about?") and experienced practitioners. It is off the grid - cell doesn't work - and that's a good thing. Really - come learn about it. read more

Amazing serenity, very accomodating staff, perfect environment to tune in, go inward, and do whatever reflection you can. It is really important for us to take the time to detox from the daily world and remember how precious our life is. thank you Vajrapani center for offering such a space. I would say that bug repellant is a MUST here. Not just at dusk either. if you want to enjoy the outdoors here, the musquitos are plentiful. just an fyi. oh and i was never hungry, the meals were great. and the outdoor shower house was a treat! read more

First retreat, the experience left an indelible healing on my mind. Vajrapani is tucked away amidst pine ridges, clear skies, and the harmonious peaceful chirping of crickets and birds. Not knowing what to expect, I tried my best to enter and leave with an open mind and heart. The staff -- very kind, the ground -- very sacred. Aside from mundane things like delicious meals, tasty tea, a small personal stovetop which reminded me of beautiful blue lotuses when engaged, and some rejuvenating and refreshing open-window showers overlooking a beautiful pine ridge, Vajrapani is truly a great spot for a personal retreat. From my speedy lifestyle it took a few days to "detox" and really settle into the openness and tranquility of the atmosphere. Thus, if one were to go, my recommendations based on my personal propensities and inclinations would be to go for at least 4-5 days. Enjoy every breath and Enlive every step. It is easy to bring the world with you when you go. Be mindful to shed your skin as you make it to this lovely nook of love. The greatest and most potent arrow is attitude. To all my fellow archers aspiring to heal all people, may this be a helpful contribution along the way. May your retreats, no matter what the physical surroundings be, swiftly advance your practice in a wholesome and universally helpful nature. read more

I attended the meditation retreat conducted by Emily Hsu over the memorial day long weekend. I thoroughly enjoyed the complete experience. It helps listening to the sound of your inner voice and I couldn't be more thankful to Emily for sharing her wisdom and being such an awesome guide in meditation. Vajrapani institute follows the Tibetan Buddhist philosophy and Emily was very instrumental in impressing upon us the salient features of their technique of meditation. She would clarify any question I had with utmost warmth, compassion and clarity. The positive and refreshing vibes can be easily felt during the practice of complete silence for the duration of the retreat. They have a wonderful collection of books and material and follow-up retreats and sessions for those interested to continue on the path towards spiritual enlightenment, that I found very rich and useful. It was a great experience and am looking forward to more such retreats to appreciate the philosophy and practice even further. read more

Just returned from my first meditation retreat and I could not be more happy and satisfied from my time at Vajrapani. I attended the 3 night "Developing a Focused Mind: FPMT Shine Level 1 with Emily Hsu" over Memorial Day weekend. Emily has an incredible, calming presence and I feel luck to have learned from her. In terms of the location, it is a beautiful sanctuary and the staff has takes amazing care of their guests. Everything is tidy and clean, and the food is delicious, filling and nourishing. Be sure to take advantage of the lovely outdoor showers that have gorgeous views. A trip to Vajrapani is good for the soul. I would recommend it to anyone and hope to have the opportunity to return in the future. read more

The center is very clean and very serene. One major problem we had was with the food. We eat Gluten free non-spicy food. As part of the retreat, we had to do some service like washing dishes, vacuuming etc. That is fine by us. What was most frustrating was Vajrapani failed to care for our basic food needs. There were not many choices for lunch and dinner. Usually there was a soup or an entree and salad. Every day there was hummus and what/white bread plus GF bread which had eggs/dairy. Even after repeated requests to make soup non-spicy, it was always too spicy for us to eat. We would have been happy with brown rice and non-spicy soup for lunch and dinner but they only served brown rice once during our 7 day stay. The Vajrapani manager was not helpful in resolving the situation. Since we were in a silent retreat, I had to write notes to the staff in vain. With non-voluntary service and money they charge, we thought they could at least provide a staple of brown rice every day but that was not the case. Several days I could not sleep because I was so hungry. The refrigerator they provide for guests is so tiny, there would have been no space to put any of my personal stuff if I had brought any. Also there is no microwave, so you can't really heat something up. Very disappointed with the experience. read more

I don't know where to start, but all I can say is that I had the most wonderful experience at the retreat center while attending the Reconciliation and Loving Kindness Mindfulness retreat last weekend. The people who run the center were most kind and helpful, the accommodations are clean and comfortable, the redwood country setting is peaceful and relaxing and the retreat fulfilled my need to further my mindfulness experience and understanding. Being there is a gift of the heart and spirit. As Lama Yeshe, the founder said, Big Love! Anxious to go again. read more

Just spent a blissful weekend at the Intro to Meditation retreat with Elaine Jackson. It was not only spiritually enlightening, but their attention to detail and organization made for a spa-like experience. The food was unbelievable and my dorm room accommodation had curtains that closed off the bed, giving me complete privacy. I was bit nervous being a beginner to the practice, but the staff made me feel so welcome and at ease. I would recommend Vajrapani to newbies and advanced practitioners. It was a special experience that left me renewed and grateful. I will be back. read more

I recently attended a weekend retreat and my expectations were exceeded. The food, staff, volunteers and attendees were amazing. I can't wait to go back! read more

Vajrapani Institute - Buddhist Temples Near Me - Boulder Creek, California

I stayed 3 nights in one of the private cabins to honor silence and time in meditation. I've been looking for a place that could support this time of silence for me and I have found it. I feel so grateful to all the Vajrapani staff that supported me during my stay. From my heart, I thank you! read more

Magnificent place , so peaceful, quiet. Those red wood trees are amazing. Staff is so caring and kind. I enjoyed doing retreat there.

I wish I could've stayed a month. It was everything I wanted it to be: a retreat to a quiet private cabin in the woods, virtually no contact with nor noise from any other human being, and delicious meals dropped off for me to eat at my leisure alone. The only distracting noise came from the thoughts inside my own head. Spending two days and three nights away uninterrupted and unhurried was heavenly. But by the last night I was aching for another week of it... at least. The staff and the other retreated honored the silence up on the ridge, though the blue jays did not, but the sounds of nature were delightful. It was nice to see them, and one evening a skunk meandered by, and in the middle of the night a couple deer passed by my back deck. While the site is located down a good 15 minute drive along a winding dirt road through forrest, it is not too far from civilization. Though the only reminders of this were the sounds of occasional planes in the distance and a couple dirt bikers one evening. But no people. The ridge faces west, looking down the ridge over trees, and there is one spot near the outdoor showers with the perfect view of the distant hills. The cabin consisted of a single room, with everything I needed: bed and chair, counter for preparing the food and secluded deck looking off into the forest. There were also some floor cushions and yoga mat and some interesting books about Buddhism tucked under the altar. I took a walk around the Peace Trail one evening, it was a nice walk. The six cabins are well separated that I took no notice of my neighbors, except for a few times walking to and from the bath house. The bathrooms were very clean and the outdoor showers had a beautiful view down the ridge. They too were even clean and surprisingly no bugs or spiders. I brought some mosquito repellent but I'm not sure it was needed, though I did make sure to use a little in the morning and the evening. I left without a single bite. In fact, luckily and happily my cabin had no other sentient beings other than myself until the morning I packed up to go a fly finally popped in to say hi. But I was careful to close the screen door every time I came inside. One of the best surprises about the visit was the delicious food that was served. I was pleasantly surprised that they sold a cookbook with some of the recipes, which I bought and have been trying to replicate the dishes but sadly to no avail. I think the chefs must be doing some mystical Buddhist rituals to cause their dishes to be so flavorful and so satisfying. I'm not usually a vegetarian but if it meant I could eat like this all the time I would be. read more

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I was fortunate to experience a second silent retreat here this week. So good to settle in to a quieter, more tranquil state. While there saw a family of turkey, a large brood of quail, many birds, beautiful forest and stars. The silent retreat cabins are just what one needs. The food was again delicious. The library much appreciated. What a unique, truly peaceful, gorgeous place. I hiked into Castle Rock preserve for two hours and saw not a soul. This retreat center was in between group programs and hence very still. read more

Vajrapani is a wonderful retreat center under the redwoods. I try to go at least once a year. The energy here is very calm and peaceful. I always have amazing experiences that help to transform my life. I leave with an inner joy and peaceful state of being that gives me encouragement for my daily life. I can not put into words how it has benefited me. The staff are amazing! Beautiful energy. read more

Vajrapani's "Lama's Ridge" cabin site provided the ideal atmosphere for a personal, 5-day meditation retreat. The only sounds heard during my stay were from the wind moving through the trees or from wildlife visiting the hillside. I was impressed by the beauty of the land, with its forests and meadows, and by the evident care and thoughtfulness with which the facility is run. The meals, delivered once a day, are simple, wholesome vegetarian fare that, after a few days, re-educated my palate to just how good really-fresh food actually tastes. A surprise exists beyond the gate that leads to the western perimeter of Castle Rock State Park. Ascending the fire road to the summit offers sweeping views of the entire San Lorenzo River valley, all the way south to the Santa Lucia Range rising beyond Carmel. Simply luminous vistas! As other reviewers have noted, Vajrapani is not a "resort," but a thriving Buddhist practice center. However, all those who are seeking the possibilities for personal reflection, insight, and creativity afforded by this quiet, off-the-grid retreat center will be amply rewarded by their stay here. read more

I adore Vajrapani, and the deep sense of peace that emanates from this oasis nestled in the Santa Cruz mountains. As with most places and business, its the people that truly matter. They have a strong, friendly and devoted community that maintains and runs the place. I love and appreciate the efforts of all the people who worked to make this place possible. Its very grassroots. Tibetan Bhuddism can be a little intimidating with all of it rituals and colors (and books!), especially for us Westerners. But the staff all readily discuss philosophy and spirituality in relaxed and non-judgemental ways. This made my time there especially beneficial and has encouraged my exploration off Tibetan Buddhism. I stayed in the dorms, which were clean and simple. I hiked up the hill to use the outdoor showers, which had an incredible view. I also recommend hiking up to the edge of Castle Rock State Park with incredible views of the valleys. The food was good, but the vast selection of teas really made me smile. I read the review about airplanes flying overhead so I was on the lookout (ear out) for planes, but never heard any. It did allow me to pay attention to other sounds though - the rolling creek, the redwoods bristing in the wind, the pitter patter of early morning rain, and the silence in between. You can't help but come out of there more relaxed and appreciative. read more