Light Of The Path Retreat: 20-30 December, 2026
Retreat Overview
Building upon Kyabje Lama Zopa Rinpoche’s wish, the ‘Light of the Path Retreat’ (LOP) 2026 will be held at Kopan Monastery, Nepal, from December 20–30, 2026.
The retreat offers an opportunity for students and practitioners to engage in the study and meditation of the Lamrim, the graduated path to enlightenment.
Since 2023, Kopan Monastery has continued to offer the Light of the Path retreat series in accordance with Lama Zopa Rinpoche’s teachings, enabling students to gather for structured study and practice within the FPMT community. These retreats support the continued preservation and application of the Lamrim teachings within the lineage transmitted by Lama Zopa Rinpoche.
This year’s retreat continues this series with a focus on the Middle Scope (Middle Capable Being) of the Lamrim, emphasizing the meditations and practices that develop renunciation and lead towards liberation from cyclic existence.
Taking place during a meaningful period at Kopan, the retreat offers an opportunity for students to gather, practice together, and deepen their connection to Lama Zopa Rinpoche’s teachings and lineage.
The retreat will be led by Geshe Tenzin Namdak, and will include daily meditation sessions integrated throughout the schedule, supporting participants in systematic study, reflection, and practical application of the Lamrim within a structured retreat environment.
Prerequisites
To participate in this retreat, it is recommended that participants have completed at least one 10-day Introduction to Buddhism course or the Kopan Lamrim Course, and have a good understanding of the Lamrim and core Mahayana Buddhist teachings, such as through completion of a Discovering Buddhism course by FPMT and/or experience of a 10-day Lamrim retreat.
However, everyone is welcome to attend, even if you have not attended previous Light of the Path retreats.
Having a strong foundation in these essential teachings will support participants in engaging more deeply with the Lamrim meditations and practices, and in receiving the greatest benefit from the retreat.
Key Areas of Focus
This 10-day retreat explores essential themes of the Middle Scope of the Buddhist path, including:
- Renunciation and the Wish for Liberation: Reflecting deeply on the nature of samsara and cultivating a sincere aspiration to be free from cyclic existence.
- Karma and Its Results: Strengthening understanding of cause and effect as a foundation for transforming one’s life and practice.
- The Four Noble Truths: Contemplating the truth of suffering, its origin, the possibility of cessation, and the path leading to liberation.
- The Three Higher Trainings: Cultivating morality, concentration, and wisdom as the method for attaining liberation
Retreat Activities
Participants will follow a structured schedule that includes:
- Morning Practices: Prostrations, preliminary practices, and Lama Chopa before breakfast, Lama Zopa Rinpoche’s heart practice, to create a strong foundation of devotion, purification, and merit.
- Lamrim Teachings & Guided Meditations: Sessions in the morning and afternoon, including short explanations and guided meditations to support reflection and integration.
- Evening Vajrasattva Practice: A daily purification practice to help clear obstacles and deepen the retreat experience.
Retreat Leader:
Geshe Tenzin Namdak
The retreat will be guided by Geshe Tenzin Namdak,
a highly respected Buddhist scholar and teacher in the Gelug tradition
of Tibetan Buddhism.
Geshe Namdak is the first Westerner to complete the full Geshe degree at Sera Je Monastic University in South India,
where he trained for over 20 years in classical Buddhist philosophy, psychology, and debate. He also completed the one-year Vajrayana programme at Gyume Tantric College, deepening his understanding of Buddhist tantra and practice.
Born in the Netherlands, Geshe Namdak received monastic ordination from His Holiness the Dalai Lama and has been a close student of Kyabje Lama Zopa Rinpoche. His life has been dedicated to integrating study, reflection, and meditation within the Tibetan Buddhist tradition.
He is currently the resident teacher at Jamyang Buddhist Centre London, where he teaches structured study programmes including Lamrim, Lojong (mind training), and Buddhist philosophy.
His teaching is known for its clarity, precision, and accessibility, supporting students in applying the Dharma in a practical and experiential way.
Retreat Details
Flat Course Fee in a Dormitory: US$ 350
Includes dormitory accommodation, all meals, and a free book.
Accommodation Options: Single, double, or triple rooms with private or shared facilities are available for an additional charge. Please check the pricing chart for daily room charges and add this to the flat course fee.
When booking, please select your room preference based on your budget. Room allocation is based on the order of booking, and we cannot guarantee the availability of your first-choice room. Rooms will be confirmed upon arrival.
Retreat Period
Start Date: December 20, 2026.
Check-in is scheduled between 9:00 am and 3:30 pm, in time to attend the first session at 5:30 pm.
Conclusion Date: December 30, 2026, following the final session and lunch.
Schedule
Daily Schedule: The retreat runs from 5:30 am to 9:00 pm each day. Participants are required to attend all sessions.
Silence: Silence is observed from 9:00 pm until after lunch the following day.
Payment
Non-refundable Deposit: Accepted students must pay a non-refundable deposit of US$ 50 to secure their place. Payment details will be provided after acceptance.
Balance Payment: The remaining balance can be paid upon arrival. Payments are accepted in Nepalese Rupees, US Dollars, or via credit card.
Note: An ATM is located just outside the monastery.
Additional Information:
Guidelines: Please read our General Guidelines before attending.
Dress Code: Adhere to the strict dress code appropriate for a monastic environment.
Meals: All meals are vegetarian. Unfortunately, special dietary needs (e.g., vegan, gluten-free) cannot be accommodated.
Travel to Nepal/Kopan: Review the guide on visas, packing, and other essential travel information.
Translation
The teachings and practices will be conducted in English. Translations into other languages will be available depending on demand and availability. Please indicate your translation needs on the booking form.
Internet and Device Policy
Mobile phones and other internet-enabled devices are not permitted during the retreat. All devices must be handed in at reception upon arrival and will be securely stored until the end of the program.
For emergencies, your family may contact the reception at (+977) 1-4821268 or email the monastery.
For more details, please review the course discipline guidelines.
