10-day retreat based on Shantideva’s Bodhicharyavatara by Khenpo Kunga Dakpa
April 24 – May 3 2026 | Live
This 10-day retreat, based on Shantideva’s famous text Bodhicharyavatara, offers practical, hands-on guidance for applying the Buddha’s teachings in everyday life. Part of the Bridges of Goodness program, co-organized with the Sarnath International Nyingma Institute, the retreat will be led by Khenpo Kunga Dakpa.
“If there is a remedy, then what is the use of frustration? If there is no remedy, then what is the use of frustration?”
“All the suffering there is in this world arises from wishing our self to be happy. All the happiness there is in this world arises from wishing others to be happy.”
Shantideva
The Path of the Bodhisattva – 10 day retreat
In 2024, the Nyingma Centers in Amsterdam and Cologne began an annual collaboration with the Sarnath International Nyingma Institute in India, called Bridges of Goodness Europe. Following visits to Amsterdam and Cologne in 2024 and 2025, Khenpo Kunga Dakpa will now lead a full 10-day retreat at the new Stupa Center in Winterswijk as part of Bridges of Goodness Europe 2026. The retreat will be based on Shantideva’s renowned Bodhicharyavatara (Guide to the Bodhisattva Way of Life).
The first weekend, Generating the Mind of Enlightenment, will focus on the first three chapters of the book and can be attended independently. Participants in the full 10-day retreat will work through all ten chapters of Shantideva’s Bodhicharyavatara. Chapters 4–8 provide practical guidance on key qualities—vigilance, diligence, patience, and focused meditation—showing how to bring these teachings into daily life. Chapter 9 explores wisdom, helping us connect with the transformative power of prajna, which deepens and unites all the earlier qualities. The retreat concludes with chapter 10, which guides us in dedicating the merit of our practice for the benefit of all beings.
Born in 1979, Khenpo Kunga Dakpa began his academic journey at Ngagyur Nyingma College, Mindrolling Monastic University in Northern India at the age of 19. Over nine years, he immersed himself in rigorous study, serving as an assistant lecturer for three years and later as a senior lecturer, assistant editor, secretary, and vice president. Conferred with the title of Khenpo in February 2018, his dedication stems from a genuine passion for teachings, with a focus on teaching about mental realities. His particular ardor lies in translating Tibetan-to-English Buddhist texts, aiming to bring the timeless wisdom of Dharma to a broader audience.
Practical information about the retreat
Dates and times
Friday April 24 16.00 hrs – Sunday May 3 14.00 hrs
Click here for a detailed schedule.
Information about the food and stay
The retreat take place at the World Peace Stupa Retreat Center, where participants stay in comfortable double rooms with private bathrooms. All meals are vegetarian and prepared according to Healthy Planet principles, with accommodations available for specific dietary needs. We encourage arrival by public transport and offer pickup from the Winterswijk or Bocholt train and bus stations.
The World Peace Stupa Center is located in Winterswijk Woold, set within an enchanting national landscape free of light and noise pollution. Surrounded by the natural beauty of the Achterhoek region and close to the historic town of Winterswijk—with its markets, museums, cafés, and lively shopping streets—the center offers a peaceful and inspiring environment for retreat.
For Whom?
This retreat is open to anyone interested and open to exploring what it truly means to bring the teachings of the Dharma into daily life. We suggest that those wishing to participate in this retreat have some prior experience with meditation or self-reflection, though all are welcome. Each day includes review and practice sessions, providing space to ask questions, reflect, and share insights.
Language
English
Costs
Standard Rate = € 995,-
Member Rate = €795,-
If the retreat fee presents a financial obstacle, partial scholarships are available. To apply, please email to: info@stupacenter.org.