Five-Year Dzogchen Training Program

Yeshe Lama — Entering the Heart of the Dzogchen Path

December 12th - 19th 2026

A rare opportunity to undertake a five-year journey of study and practice in the Dzogchen teachings of the Longchen Nyingtik tradition of Jigme Lingpa. At the heart of this program is the Yeshe Lama, a profound presentation of the Dzogchen path.

Over five years, participants will study the text in depth under the guidance of Dr. Khenpo Yeshi Rinpoche while receiving training in the meditation practices and instructions.

This is not simply a program of philosophical study. It is a training in practice and realization—bringing together study, meditation, contemplation, and the guidance of an authentic lineage.

Pre -register

A Complete Journey of Practice

Through sustained training, participants will:
  • Study Yeshe Lama and its essential instructions
  • Receive teachings and oral guidance
  • Train progressively in the complete path of Dzogchen practices presented in the text from Korde Rushen through Trekcho and Togyal.
  • Develop a deeper understanding and experience of the Dzogchen view
  • Integrate meditation and practice into daily life
  • Cultivate stability, confidence, and familiarity with the nature of mind
  • Each year will include appropriate empowerments. This year will be Yumka Dechen Gyalmo from the Longchen Nyingtik.

The five-year format allows the teachings to unfold gradually, giving practitioners the time and continuity needed to move from understanding, to practice, to genuine familiarity. We encourage anyone planning to attend to be willing to commit to attending the entire 5 year program.

The Path of Direct Recognition

Dzogchen points directly to the primordial nature of mind—primordially pure, spontaneously present, and inseparable from compassionate awareness.

This program offers a dedicated environment in which to explore that profound view through the authentic instructions of the lineage and through sustained personal practice.

For sincere practitioners wishing to make a long-term commitment to the study and practice of Dzogchen, this five-year training offers an opportunity to enter deeply into one of Tibet's most profound and complete paths of awakening.

Year One Program Details

Year One - Yumka Dechen Gyalmo empowerment and Yeshe Lama transmission (Lung). Also transmissions of **Longchen Nyingtik Ngondro **texts and other key practice materials. Primary teaching and practice will focus on Korde Rushen from the Yeshe Lama.

This retreat will be all in-person with no online or Zoom options.

  • December 12th - 19th 2026

    12/12 - Yeshe Lama Lung (Oral Transmission of text) - open to non-retreat participants

    12/13 - Yumka Dechen Gyalmo Empowerment - open to non-retreat participants

    12/14- 12/19 - In-person teaching and practice retreat on the Yeshe Lama for those participating in the 5 year program.

  • Retreat will be held on Saint-Laurent street in ‘The Plateau’ neighborhood in Montreal, Canada.

  • There will be limited on site lodging options available. Please send us an email if you are interested in reserving lodging.

    The area around the retreat space has many options for short term rentals (VRBO, Airbnb) and hotels. We will try to facilitate participants who are looking for shared lodging to connect with each other by the time full registration opens up.

    No meals will be provided. The retreat space has many good restaurants and groceries within walking distance.

  • We are opening preregistration at this time. Full retreat registration will be available before October 2026.

    $50 - Initial deposit to show your interest and hold your space in the program. Please preregister if you have serious interest in the retreat. This will help us to know how large of a teaching space we will need to rent. Preregistration deposits are refundable if you are unable to attend the retreat.

  • Due with final registration. Final registration will open before October 2026.

    Retreat donations are on a tiered sliding scale basis. Please give what you can.

    - $900 Benefactor level. A contribution above the retreat cost that helps us to make sure no one is turned away due to financial need. Helps us to expand Rinpoche’s Dharma activities and programs.

    - $750 Supporter Level. A contribution that supports growing Rinpoche’s Dharma activities and programs.

    - $550 Regular retreat attendance. A contribution that covers our operational cost of your participation in this retreat.

    - $350 Limited income attendance. A reduced contribution option for those who want to support the retreat costs but may not be able to afford the full cost.

    Please also consider making a personal Dana offering to Rinpoche.

    We are dedicated to making this program as affordable as possible. There will be work-study opportunities and sliding scale tuition options. If you cannot afford the sliding scale rates and would like to discuss work study or scholarship options please reach out to us at info@yeshethinley.com

  • Please reach out to us at info@yeshethinley.com