Khachodling...Khachodling Newsletter – October 2013 2 Khachodling Newsletter October 2013...

News from Khandro Rinpoche

Page 2-6

Khachodling Project updates

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Teaching reports from Australia & Hong Kong

Page 22-27

Pilgrimages stories from Bhutan, Lahoul, Ladakh & Zanskar

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A visit from an old friend

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KhachodlingNewsletter October 2013

www.khachodling.org Joyful Manisfestation

2Khachodling Newsletter – October 2013

Khachodling Newsletter October 2013

Editorial & News from Khandro Rinpoche

Editorial Note

Encouraged by her elder Masters to give empowerment, Khandro Rinpoche’s dharma work continues to enrich communities in both East and West. In particular, Rinpoche has, this year, spent significant time in Bhutan as well as Lahoul, Ladakh and Zanskar, inspiring local communities where her father, Apho Rinpoche, taught and lived. A significant number of her students and friends joined these pilgrimages and had the opportunity to work with local people, see Khachodling projects in action and deepen their understanding of Buddhism and local culture. This therefore seemed the perfect theme for this newsletter - Joyous Manifestation!

Editors - Ursula Horlock and Stuart Lord - with a little help from friends!

For the last eight years I have been teaching (as well as

learning) in the West and it has been an enriching experience to understand more deeply the vessel – my students, into which I have been pouring the teachings. In the West, I realize it is important for my students to have a sound foundation, and, in the last few years, this has been my main purpose along with deepening their devotion. Having laid the ground, it was time for students to experience lineage elders. So I invited to Australia, H.E. Gyeltshen Tulku of Bhutan who is one of the most respected lineage masters. It was a beautiful experience

to both translate and jointly teach in the West. After bestowing the Avaloketeshvara empowerment from the mind treasure of Togden Shakya Shri (for which I have been teaching and holding annual retreats for the last five years) he ordered me to bestow these empowerments myself in future. This is a huge responsibility and even though I was going to wait till all my hair turned grey to do this job — the order came much earlier!

His Eminence was touched and impressed by the way I have worked with western students. He supported my vision and encouraged my modern approach of teaching without losing the ancient essence. I wish that my precious Imi-la could make such a journey to teach, however he is now too old (87). People will need travel to the East to share his wisdom!

After His Eminence left, I continued working on deepening the practices and giving empowerments to the practice groups in Australia, Indonesia, Hong Kong, Korea and Mongolia. It was sustaining to begin to see people’s devotion deepening, and sangha developing ,as they grew to know more of the authenticity of the lineage, the family and its teachers. Finally after many months away from home, and having been very busy with Western minds – I was longing to head eastward.

At laaast... retreat in Pema Gatsal, Bhutan... Emaho!... How wonderful!Amitabha Empowerment - Sani, Zanskar



I received teachings from HE Gyelsthen Tulku and spent hours on the balcony of my little hut and watched the radiant red of sunrises, the play of thunder and lightning, and the whole beautiful display of the sky and elements. After being in busy places, just being in nature and in the land of dharma by myself, alone, was the greatest treat imaginable.

Dr Gillian, a student of Sogyal Rinpoche, kindly attended me in Bhutan while also offering medical assistance to our Shakya Shri lineage nuns at Pema Gatsal. She gave her services and time from the depth of her heart and this was deeply appreciated.

Soon the pilgrims arrived in East Bhutan. Also joining was Jane, after many months serving in Delhi, Agula, my Bhutanese protector from my Manali home, and Dhargyal from Druk Expeditions. This group, from different parts of the world, bonded in the lap of the devotion of the people and the energy that has for centuries seeped into the landscape and manifested in the monasteries and practitioners.

We had the rare opportunity to be escorted by His Eminence and personally introduced to the remote hermitages that dot the hills and valleys of the east. It was a personally touching time for all. Manla, my village, was a highlight of simplicity and purity and the stupa glowed in the moon essence. As a surprise,

at this stupa, Mark Darley, an old friend, offered me again the actual katak (white scarf ) that my beloved husband and I were married with at Mark’s home in the USA. This katak I offered to the stupa, which was very auspicious. It was at least eight years seen I’d seen Mark and to reconnect with him on HH Shabdrung’s own land of Bhutan was amazing — Mark had beautiful stories to share.

It’s interesting that this year I have been reconnecting with old friends from the USA. Teresa McGlashan,

my dear friend from CIIS days, came to visit my home in Manali with her entire family (all 9 of them). Our families connected to each other in a beautiful way as if we have known each other for many lifetimes.

The Bhutan journey was not complete with only the East. A gang of beautiful Hong Kong friends, and some additional Aussies, joined us all in Bhumthang. Suddenly we became a big group — a great blend of east and west. It was a picturesque drive through the Himalayan mountains — forests, rivers and rhododendrons


Dr Gillian’s compassion, East Bhutan

Natures Display

My little retreat hut in Pema Gatsel, Bhutan



in abundance. Punakha Dzong was filled with jacaranda trees in full bloom. We visited all the significant holy sites and dzongs along the way before ending up in Paro and Thimphu. The Bhutanese whisky was a highlight on those evenings when the group was dzonged out!

In the east we celebrated Tom and Jane and Suzanne’s birthday’s with

song and dance with the locals and in the west we celebrated Albert’s special day with pomp and glory at the luxury hotel, Uma, Paro – all dressed in Bhutanese attire! It was real fun.

Loaded with presents and gifts, including the traditional red rice, we returned to Delhi. Here I became ill and so my obstacle year began!

However, I got medical advice, focused on my health and, in taking care of myself and resting and, by the time I arrived in Lahoul, land of the dakinis, my birthplace, I felt better. In fact, the higher we went, the better I got. The trust of my teachers, the steadfastness of the local Himalayan communities, the monks, nuns and yogis and the devotion of my Western students have all inspired me to continue in this life for the benefit of all beings.

I could not have imagined a better place than where I was born – such a holy landscape — to celebrate my birthday and rejuvenate. The day His Eminence and Imi-la put the dakini crown on my head and the community offered me the mandala my sugar levels dropped and my health improved and my obstacle year seemed to have come to an end. A big thank you to all for honouring the feminine principle.

The Lahoul drubchen was an amazing event headed by HE Gyeltshen Trulku and Kunga Rinpoche. It was wonderful to have so many of my western friends and students come and meet and work in my eastern dharma home. So many were moved to witness the love of the community and the devotion of its long heritage of dharma activities being rejuvenated to this day. The medicine pill making was magical – all the non-poisonous herbs with 8 roots and 1000 branch ingredients (that we had worked so hard to collect over


East Bhutanese villagers enjoying photos on western technology

Our stupa in Manla, my village Mongar dzong monks (Bhutan)



the last years), were prepared into a powder then marinated in huge brass and copper vessels, with the five elements and relics from the time of the Buddha, and put under the mandala of Dechog Pema Vajra. Around the clock, this was invoked with the prayers and mantras of over 100 monks, nuns, laypeople and yogis. The bliss and joy that was experienced was phenomenal. Nature displayed it in rainbows and nectar that overflowed in the shrine Gyalwa Gotsangpa. I could tangibly feel my precious parents and my guru Gegen Khyentse. Imi-la, 87-years-old, unstoppably led the chanting from 6am till 10 at night – such vigour and passion! I want him to live forever – such beings are so rare and make a difference on this planet. The whole world felt it was vibrating with peace and compassion.

At this point I would like to make a special note of thanks to my brother Sey Jampal and his wife Phuntsok. Behind the scenes they worked so much to enable this event to be a success. Sey Jigme and my little niece, Yeshe, represented the family on this occasion, the rest were busy at this time of the year. Thank you also to all the westerners who made offerings for my long life — the pujas and food for the public were amazing.

Many of our pilgrimage group returned to Manali after the drubchen whilst I, and around ten others moved on to Leh, Ladakh. It was with great joy that, in Leh, I

re-met one of my masters, Stagna Rinpoche, who wrote my long life prayer. Last time I saw him, he was a 90-year-old man and now he is a two-year-old baby. This child recognized me and called me by the precise name that the previous incarnation used to use for me. The pilgrimage group was happy to meet him and marvelled at the confidence of one so young — meeting and blessing people with ease and patience. I had the opportunity to spend almost a week with him and delighted in hearing, “Where’s Ani Khandro?” each morning.

I then travelled to Zanskar to attend the Naropa festival and the group joined me there a few days later. It was so beautiful to be back in my nunnery after four years and to see the completed gompa — with the last few pieces of roof put on just in time for the visit! As part of the festival, I was requested to bestow an Amitabha wang and attend the lama/mask dancing at Sani gompa. Villagers from all over the region had gathered for this yearly festival where the statue of Naropa is unveiled once per year.

To my surprise I was greeted by my Manali neighbour, Dickie, and her two sisters at the festival and, coincidentally, we were looking for cooks so the nuns could practice. The cooks had miraculously arrived! The Amitabha puja I dedicated to my nun, Ani Sonam who passed away last year in an unfortunate accident.

The next day, and onwards, we had a semi-retreat in the nunnery where East met West. There was morning Tara puja from the nuns, some meditation, yoga when possible, and dharma in action. The western students contributed in a variety of ways from making walls, interviewing the nuns and being rostered on for cooking. It was great to see people around the gompa enjoying centuries of spiritual energy with everyday life.

I was thronged by people for blessings and interviews yet, in between, we visited Bardon Gompa, Naropa’s cave in Dzongkul and enjoyed a day in Padum where a big local gathering occurred in the community hall at the stupa which I had previously sponsored for my late husband.

On our last day in Zanskar we consecrated our new gompa. I offered the Vajrayogini empowerment to monks, nuns and westerners, and the ngondro transmission to monks and new nuns. This was a beautiful day of celebration. Local dignitaries and hundreds of villagers came — all amazed at the quality of the ritual instruments and the shrine with 21 Tara statues smiling at them. This is the first Drukpa nunnery in Zanskar!

Homeward bound, we stayed at our Khachodling Gompa in Mulbeck. Amchi-la and the nuns have made this place such a contained and beautiful home. In the small courtyard westerners helped grind a new medicine for diabetes! We ate,




laughed and sang amidst pujas and another wang. Here Jane’s nephew, Jianni, joined us and he gifted me a real Aussie swag — perfect for the Himalayas. We had a picnic on the final day and heard teachings in the forest while eating bananas cooked in chocolate, Aussie damper and baked potatoes from the fire.

This year we seem to have attracted more nuns — two are now heading to Mulbeck from Tsomoriri and five have come from two little villages in Zanskar valley to join our Sani Gompa! The Westerners who visited have sponsored them all in new robes. They look gorgeous.

We spent three days with the nomads at Lake Tsomoriri. This community has been reciting Avolokiteshvara practice for 27 years — the very same heart treasure of Togden Shakya Shri that is practiced in Australia! This year, the nomads first request was that I offer to them the empowerment for this practice and indeed I was so happy to give it to such dedicated beings. It was a mutual joy.

For the nomadic eye project this year we provided stoves to the remaining poor families who did not receive one last year. In addition, some stoves were sent to the nuns in Zanskar and Mulbeck. People really appreciate these and they formally thanked all contributors. They mentioned that the stoves are of the best quality and that the smoke is not leaking into their tents. For this

I am happy for smoke really ruins their precious eyesight.

The main pilgrimage finished on the 8th of August in Leh with a sumptuous farewell feast. The most important thing for me in these two pilgrimages was to share with the western students this deep culture and its living heritage rooted in devotion. From my side it was an offering and celebration of all the great ancestors who have contributed, not materialistically, but from the essence of their bodhicitta mind.

Great masters have rightly said, “In degenerate times, holy landscapes imbued with the blessings of previous practitioners will need to nourish humanity.” In this consumer world, we as humans tend to suck from our environment and barely have anything to give back.Our minds tend to be weak, yet in contrast great yogis of the past lived with strong minds in a balanced exchange with nature. These days we need nature to become replenished and it was wonderful to see just how replenished the pilgrims felt after being in the purity of the holy sites and basking in the soft devotion of the people.

Now I am home again in Manali with Jane, my nuns, Agula and his wife, as well as Kezang. It is a happy home and Phuntsok and Emer have both continued with me here as well — staying just minutes away. I am having time to be with my

family and prepare again for the next year where I will mostly be residing in Australia. The Hong Kong community have requested I visit and teach there in November, and the local sangha have also asked me to Korea. So I happily continue my work to deepen the dharma in the heart of all. See you soon.

Till then live in your heart!

Khandro Thrinlay Chodon


Blessing in Dakini Crown offered by my elders

Our stupa for my beloved late husband is complete in Padum, Zanskar




My 95 year old Master (Stagna Rinpoche) returns as a 2 year old child in Chukta Gompa Lahoul

Dharma Medicine Pill (Mendrup) Making, Lahoul Drubchen. Mixing ingredients by our nuns

Local children of Atiing village Zanskar, melting in deep devotion

Master presiding the Lahoul drubchen - Imi Drupten, HE Gyelsthen Trulku Rinpoche, HE Kunga Rinpoche (left to right)- with local people

Imi-la - our respected elder - conducting drubchen, Kardang Gompa, Lahoul

Western students grinding a new diabetic medicine, Mulbeck, Ladakh



Dreamtime in Bhutan

As I write these words memories flood my mind...

was it a dream? It was so unreal. This trip is one of the few times I haven’t written down a travel journal, I didn’t have time and everyday was so unexpected. You never knew what would eventuate, but is was always so much more than any written itinerary.If you’re not familiar with this amazing country you will need to find a map and locate it high up in the Himalayan mountains above India, on the right, and bordering Nepal and Assam. It is a land of beautiful valleys, winding roads, high mountain passes and seventy percent covered in forest. It is a kingdom with a much loved King and Queen who devote themselves to the happiness of their people. Spectacular, breathtaking, peaceful, magical, happy, wise, ancient, enlightening are some of

the words I would use to describe these memories.Travelling the length of the country from east to west in a bus with 13 people for three weeks is a unique experience. This small group had never met, apart from an association with the much admired female Dakini, Khandro Rinpoche, a leader in the message of Buddhism to the West, and a religious guardian and guide to her own people in the Indian Himalayas and Bhutan. She is also the wife to the late H.H. the 9th Shabdrung Rinpoche, one of the most important figures in Bhutan.With Khandro-la as our guide we were in for an unexpected journey to the heart of Bhutan and its people and to the revelation of our own hearts in this ancient land where Buddhist culture and practice is a part of everyday life.We arrived in the cold mountain location of the Shakya Shri nunnery, Jashar Gompa, to be guests of the very generous His Eminence Gyeltshen Tulku. The sounds of the drums, bells and chanting were of another world on that first day, however, this became a daily activity, as did the numerous occasions we shared with the people of Bhutan seeking the humble blessings of Khandro Rinpoche who they hold in great esteem. A day to remember.Travelling to our destination, I looked to see a temple located far off into the forest, high up in mountainous country. “That’s

where we were going, a short half day walk,” His Eminence said! We began walking down through the rice fields, passing animals and farm houses to find a small well worn winding path. We then headed up to Ombha, the sacred site of Guru Rinpoche. In the valley the river is rushed by… we march one by one, occasionally stopping. We reach a house high in the mountain. It’s hot, very hot, and we are so thirsty. Continuing we scale a high rock wall with spectacular views over the valley. Our guide keeps going and finally we reach a precarious cliff top, our destination a treasured temple. It feels like nothing I have felt before. It’s special. We offer up our humble prayers.We descend for a travellers lunch, its still hot, its late and the sun is going down. Our way back is long, with aching legs, burning lungs and words of encouragement to each other we arrive back at our starting point, its taken nine hours, we are definitely not locals!But wait there is more, we are aiming for the little village of Manla, where the local people have been planning for weeks for the arrival of Khandro Rinpoche. We climb on the bus and travel to our next stop, to share a cup of tea with the family of Khandro Rinpoche. They have been waiting too. A quick medical consultation by our party, a doctor and a chiropractor, and the sun has Precious moments



gone down. We emerge from the bus in the dark, backpacks laden for the night, head lamps and walking shoes on, and begin the descent down the valley to Manla. It’s really dark, we talk and laugh, moan and groan: its been a long day. Three more hours we walk, the full moon rises high in the sky, it’s very auspicious. We are at last received by the local people whom have been waiting all day. They have worked so hard for so long for this occasion. They cry tears of happiness.We fall into our beautiful open tent under the sky, it feels like bliss.Some of my treasured memories: the smoking ceremony to announce the arrival of a religious

leader, spinning prayer wheels, the prayer flags blowing in the wind sending out messages of peace — strength, health and wealth among all sentient beings — the most wonderful cups of tea sharing a generosity and warm of the human spirit, being in the presence of ancient religious treasures and relics of another world, living in the presence of the Buddhist practice and culture.As I resume my life, I think about circumambulating a chorten (stupa), running my hands over the pray wheels, smiling at an old lady with thoughts of good intension, and remember how peaceful it felt in my heart and mind, this journey cultivated the

positive mind seeds that were planted through the meeting of Khandro Rinpoche.Everyone has the opportunity to attain understanding and enlightenment.

Leonie Joss (Perth, Australia)

Dreamtime in Bhutan

Punakha dzong



Dreamtime in Bhutan

PIlgrims of East Bhutan

Late night walking arrival at Manla stupa Precious moments



As I write this I am looking back on my pilgrimage with

Khandro Rinpoche, in the Indian Himalayas in July and August 2013. Only two months ago, I was in the thick of it and already it is a thing of the past. Isn’t it interesting, I think to myself, how the experiences of an extraordinary journey, received within the framework of the mundane routines of everyday life — getting up, having meals, going places, feeling groggy, feeling elated, feeling hungry and thirsty, going to bed — how these experiences, precious and mind-blowing as they were, condense

to a series of mental snapshots in the mind. A bit like a “Best of” album. Take the drive from Mulbek to Zanskar as an example. Of course you know that the road is bad and that the drive is very long indeed, but still, at some point halfway through, it feels as if you have been bouncing up and down on your car seat forever, every bone in your body hurts and in your state of exhaustion you deem it quite possible that you may never arrive at your destination, that you are doomed to bounce on forever. You’ve had it and just want to curl up and sleep.

However when I recall the drive from Mulbek to Zanskar, for example, the tedium, the tension and exertion — though not forgotten — do not matter. What now stands out in my memory is the intense curiosity and the sense of wonder that never left me. The glimpses of the Shia Muslim communities, the predominance of men in the early-morning streets of Kargil, kids in their school uniforms dawdling or rushing to school, all girls veiled with the hijab. After Kargil, the Suru Valley, lush and fertile, dotted with villages, towered over by the massive twin peaks

An Amazing Journey: six weeks pilgrimage in the high Himalayas

Kardang Gompa, Lahoul

Food offered to the public at consecration of Khandro-la’s gompa in Sani

Mendrup ( dharma pills) making - Kardang Gompa, Lahoul



of Kun and Nun, 7000m high and snow capped. The sealed road giving way to a track that got increasingly bumpier, the villages petering out. Not yet Zanskar, we were driving through an empty valley bordered by mountain cliffs and peaks, glaciers and rocks, with lush alpine meadows and ice-cold streams, a most magnificent and lonely landscape inhabited by marmots and wild horses, and a few nomads with their grazing cows. How reassuring it was to see the first chorten, and a village of thatch-roofed houses behind it, many hours later at nightfall. We had finally reached Zanskar. A bone-shattering, mind-blowing 16 hour drive condensed to a few images. My Himalayan pilgrimage unfolded in three stages: the first started in Manali and continued to the Dechog Pema Vajra Drubchen at Kardang Gompa in Lahoul. The second stage began with the one-day drive from Kardang Gompa to Leh, the capital of Ladakh. Leh was our base for a few days of exploring surrounding areas and visiting some of the nearby famous monasteries. The third and final stage centred on staying at Khachodling Nunnery near Sani in the remote Zanskar Valley, followed by a few days at Khachodling Gompa in Mulbek. There was a strong sense of continuity as the people who stayed on for the second and the third leg of the pilgrimage had

been part of the group from the start. By the time we’d reached Zanskar we’d got to know each other fairly well. A sense of camaraderie had developed; our idiosyncrasies were tolerated or tactfully ignored, in case of minor medical problems we helped each other out with ointments or whatever other medication was on hand. Light banter relieved the occasional monotony of drinking tea and waiting for something, and turned the shelling of very tiny pea pods into a fun event. Yet the three stages of the pilgrimage also had their distinct, unique flavour. In Manali we were still getting to know each other. Khandro Rinpoche had already travelled on, so her younger brother Jigme who’d arrived from Perth, holidaying in his home town Manali with his daughter, guided us and took us around. We visited the two places connected to Khandro-la and her family: her former family home, Apho Rinpoche Gompa, just below our hotel, and Bhutan Gompa, her marriage home and residence when she is in Manali. Memory snapshots at Apho Rinpoche Gompa: the wooden printing blocks for sacred texts, hidden in the luggage while fleeing out of Tibet. Fleeing meant being on the run, in constant danger. You had to travel very lightly. What devotion. What sadness too, thinking of all the precious objects that were

left behind. Imi-la’s room, up a narrow stair-case on the first floor of the house adjacent to the Apho Rinpoche Gompa: tiny and imbued with the power of decades of study, prayer and meditation. Bhutan Gompa: The façade of the house freshly painted in bright luminous colours. The children of the Education Project gathered on the lawn, together with some of their parents and their teacher, Kezang. How they introduced themselves in English; some shy and nervous, some confident and self-assured, some quite cheeky. Reciting the prayers they learned, eyes closed, concentrating and devoted. How their faces lit up when small bags of presents from all of us were given to them. I also fondly remember the excursion to Naggar. The small but exquisite Nicholas Art Roerich Gallery with paintings of the Himalayas that had become the Roerich family’s adopted spiritual home. The lunch at Naggar castle, overlooking the Kullu Valley. The visit to the Tibetan craft school; boys and young men patiently learning the craft of thangka painting, young women learning how to sew wall hangings and clothes (their choice, we were told); the retired teachers living in the compound, some of us talking to a lovely, sweet-faced old man. Then I remember the drive over the Rohtang Pass to Lahoul through dense fog, mists clearing and the snow-capped Pir Panjang




mountain range in full view, the descent in dazzling sunshine into the Chandra Valley and Lahoul. The drive from Tandi at the confluence of the Chandra and Bagha rivers, to Kardang Gompa, along the ‘scary road’ — a narrow, winding, unsealed road cut into the mountainside, vertiginously high above the river and the terraced vegetable fields. For the next six days our home was a tent camp about 15 minutes walking distance (what else?) from Kardang Gompa. Complete with two-share tents (mattresses and doonas), toilet tents (with seats and never smelly), shower tents where in the morning hot water was available on request, and a dining tent where yummy and varied meals were served. It was the most luxurious tent camp I’d ever been in, and in addition we had the most spectacular views of the valley, the township of Keylong on the opposite side of the valley, and surrounding snow-capped peaks. This are is known as Garsha Khandroling, a region deeply steeped in Buddhist lore, the Heart Land of the Dakinis. Our camp and Kardang Gompa were on a ridge on the northern slopes of Rangcha Mountain, also known as Drilbu Ri, the “Mountain of Spontaneous Union”. Rangcha is part of the network of the ‘Abodes of Chakrasamvara’, a supremely holy place and one of enormous power. Understandably the kora,

a clockwise circumambulation of Drilburi is a sacred walk on a sacred site, allowing pilgrims to connect deeply with the divine. Most of us did not perform the kora but we had many precious opportunities to receive teachings and blessings from eminent teachers, to pray in temples suffused with sacred energies. Simply just being there had a transformative and uplifting effect. The high altitude inevitably forced us to slow down and take deep breaths, so we stopped and looked, overwhelmed by the luminous, eternal beauty around and above us. The Drubchen — the final preparation of the ‘mendrup’, the spiritually empowered medicine — had already been underway prior to our arrival. Khandro-la was very involved with that, and her presence very much in demand. Together with His Eminence Gyeltshen Trulku Rinpoche, she visited other monasteries in the area, reconnecting with monastic and lay people, and attending pujas. Our group spent as much time with her as possible, following her, but we also visited monasteries on our own, accompanied by her brother Jigme and Lama Tsewang. Khandro-la’s birthday, and even more so the last day of the Drubchen, were important occasions for the entire region. The last day of the Drubchen was

on the Wheel of Dharma Day, one of the four most important days in the Buddhist calendar. This, and the promise of a closing tsog and an Amitayus (Amitabha) long-life empowerment, drew people from the valley, all of Lahoul and even further afield to the gompa. Early in the morning the small goat tracks leading to houses and settlements on the slopes became veritable highways for pedestrians. People headed for Kardang Gompa, walking in single file, men and women in their finest clothes, the women adorned with splendid gold, coral and turquoise jewellery, carrying bags with snacks and thermos flasks, babies on their backs, toddlers in tow. At the gompa, all the available space was tightly packed. People gathered everywhere; about 4000 we learned later. As a Westerner, and one who is used to a fairly solitary life, the crush was almost too much for me. Unlike a church service in the West, people chatted, drank tea, kids wailed, occasionally somebody talked into their mobile phone. Yet during the empowerment there was intense concentration, the attendees’ reverence and devotion was very palpable, as was their deep love of their spiritual tradition and of the eminent teachers who had gathered for this rare and important ceremony. No more astounding time was felt by all than when Khandro





The windy roads of the HImalayas- Lahoul

Rinpoche appeared wearing the special dakini hat. The crowd were awestruck at this display of the feminine. Apparently His Eminence Gyeltshen Trulku had insisted she manifest in this way — a unique spiritual occasion. To this amazing dakini all locals and we westerners gave special offerings for Khandro-la’s long life. We all lined up to hand over a katak and receive her blessing. As I was looking into her face and being touched by her, I saw and felt her immense power and love. She didn’t represent a dakini, she

was a Dakini. Other memory snapshots of Lahoul: Walking up from the main road to Tayul Gompa on the morning of our second day in Lahoul — how short of breath and how exhausted we were when we reached the monastery, after what in lesser altitudes would have been an easy uphill walk of 30-40 minutes. Spending time with Khandro-la and Imi-la, her late father’s life-long attendant, who is a kind and very wise man and an accomplished dharma master in

his own right. The friendly chats with locals from nearby villages, the invitation to come back next time we were in the valley. The surprise lunch that the local ladies had prepared for our group. The farewell dance in the afternoon, the sun already quite low on the horizon, started by the ladies, then joined by many from our group. Another special memory relates to our visit to Chukta Gompa above the village of Peukar. That sunny morning turned to a miserable,




wet and foggy afternoon and we huddled gratefully in a cosy room, enjoying the warm welcome, the tea and biscuits. Then the nuns and monks performed a puja for us in the gompa, inviting us to pray with them from the heart as they invoked Tara — for the wellbeing of ourselves and all people. The nuns’ voices rose, clear as crystal bells above the base line drone of the monks, lifting us all up to another, ethereal world. Even though we were quite hungry by now, we regretted

the end of the chanting and the call for lunch. The lunch was delicious and prepared with so much care: rice, a puffed wheat bread, different types of vegetables, yoghurt and pickles. After lunch, we hung out, chatted, some people presented some songs. As we left, the nuns and monks gathered for a few photos. Their kind, pure-hearted and loving hospitality deeply touched me and stayed with me throughout our pilgrimage and to this day. Dear reader, these were just a

few of my highlights, my most memorable impressions of Manali and Lahoul, the first leg of my 6 week Himalayan pilgrimage. Let’s not rush… the journey to Leh, the time spent in Leh, at the Khachodling nunnery near Sani in Zanskar and at Khachodling gompa in Mulbekh, all of these are worth further chapters. To be continued, so stay tuned…

Anna Dehne (Melbourne, Australia)

East - West Bridge in Sani Zanskar



One of the first things I noticed about the Zanskar valley

was its expansiveness. Nestled in this valley is the beautiful Sani Gompa and Nunnery, which has grown due to the combined vision of Khandro Rinpoche, one of the earliest nuns, Ani Tsering, as well as the dedication and hard work of the lamas and anis in concert with the local community.The view from the verandah of the Sani Gompa is spectacular and a favourite place for Lama Wangdu and Lama Rigzin, and everyone else, to sit. There is a view of the nearby Sani village, farms with their green fields, rivers high with glacial water and, of course, the ever present Himalayan ranges. In the evenings, there was often spectacular light over the

Pilgrimage in Zanskar

mountains.This gompa, with its newly completed tin roof, has a distinctly feminine vibe. The wall-to-wall altar, meticulously painted with Tibetan auspicious symbols, houses a most beautiful statue of Tara and her 21 manifestations.It was a time of building genuine relationships between Eastern and Western communities. Little pathways and cottage gardens, filled with sunflowers, cornflowers and other plants surrounded the anis’ cottages, which generously housed us for 10 days. The anis had been working hard for months in the lead up to Khandro Rinpoche’s visit to bless the completed gompa. It was precious to start to get to

know the eight resident nuns as well as the five new, young nuns who joined in the last days of our visit. We spent time drinking chai, preparing food, sometimes singing and dancing. We even helped repair the freestone rock wall on the perimeter of the nunnery, under the guidance of Ani Kunzang, who showed us jusy what a skilful art freestone wall building is.It was also a time of building our practice together. We meditated and joined the nuns during their Tara, and Chöd practice. To everyone’s immense good fortune, Khandro Rinpoche also bestowed a Vajrayogini empowerment. This ceremonial day included a long puja with the full range of ceremonial instruments and

The older nuns of Khachodling Sani Zanskar with teacher Gegan Wangdue



a large gathering of monks and Lamas alongside Khandro Rinpoche. The authenticity and presence of centuries old ritual was tangible. The blessing of having accomplished lamas present added even further depth. The energy they held was extraordinary. It was a humbling experience that inspired our collective commitment to practice.After the puja was over everyone assembled under a big tent erected by the locals. Then, to our surprise, Khandro-la and the lamas were presented with hundreds of kataks amongst shouts of `Juley!’, which created

a Kata mountain in front of Khandro Rinpoche, so much so that we couldn’t see her anymore. The heart of the Zanskari people was palpable, their devotion to Khandro Rinpoche so strong, they were such a genuine and hospitable community. This place is full of blessings. Having the chance to absorb life in Zanskar over an extended period allowed us to also visit other places in the valley — including the local village monastery in Sani, where we attended an Amitabha initiation ceremony conducted by Khandro Rinpoche herself. We were also

fortunate enough to see the Naropa statue. This statue was manifested by Naropa for the devotees of the region, before he headed to the Pure Lands and is only revealed for one week a year. We also visited one of the Eight Holy Charnel grounds and Naropa’s cave. It is my wish that many of us will visit this earthly pure land, again and again, to forge strong connections with its beauty, its history and its practitioners. May it ever flourish.

Nicole Harstead (Hobart, Australia)

Pilgrimage in Zanskar

Our new Gompa roofView from Gompa Verandah

A mountain of kataks just beginning!



Zanskar is a very remote and high Himalayan mountain-

encircled valley, situated to the east of Pakistan and to the west of Ladakh. Many ancient Buddhist yogis practiced here and it is renowned for its holy sites and spiritual power. One of the eight holy charnel grounds on the planet is located in the village of Sani. Naropa practiced and realised enlightenment in the caves at Dzongkul then flew to Sani where he left his hair for the local devotees before his parinirvana. His hair was made into the Looks Like [Me] statue, which to this day continues to produce rigdzil, and is unveiled for local view

each year at the Naropa festival. Guru Rinpoche also meditated in the Zanskar valley.Though traditionally Buddhist, due to changing political fortunes, Zanskar is now under the rule of the muslimised Jammu and Kashmir state of India. As a result of tensions rooted in religious and political differences, unfortunately there is now some conflict in these parts. By way of support, please do find out more about Zanskar — a pure and relatively untouched region — and pray that the spiritual heritage of this land and its people can be maintained.

Zanskar —A Note

Khandro Rinpoche with four new nuns in the gounds of Sani Nunnery, Zanskar.



In 1997, Khandro-la (known as Thrinlay Chodon in those

days) and I went to graduate school together in the East West psychology program at the California Institute of Integral Studies. I would pick her up every week and we’d cross the Bay Bridge into San Francisco. Our conversations ranged from the hilarious to the profound and we became fast friends. When her fiancé, Shabdrung Rinpoche, came to visit, we travelled up to the Sierra Mountains and enjoyed time together. I was also privileged to be at Khandro-la’s wedding. But when Khandro-la lost her beloved husband after only 5 years, she began an odyssey that has led to many adventures and much growth, both inner and outer. When my brother and family moved to India this year for 9 months, my sons and parents and I took the opportunity to visit them in Mumbai. And then all 10 of us travelled to Manali to visit Khandro-la. She met us at the

A Visit from an Old Friend

airport, arriving on the same day as the ten of us, after over a year away from her Manali home. That fortuitous and unplanned timing was just the beginning of a magical visit. Accompanied by Gyeltshen Trulku Rinpoche of Bhutan, her younger brother Jigme-la, her niece Yeshe-la and Jane, our families travelled together the last few hours to Manali in a local bus that had to be quickly found since the taxis were on strike. It was very sweet to see Yeshe (Khandro-la’s 6-year-old niece and Grace (my 8-year-

old niece) become fast friends. For four beautiful days we experienced the many blessings of being in Manali with Khandro-la. We climbed a mountain to do a puja at a sacred Shiva site. We were blessed by Imi-la, her father’s attendant for many years and a beautiful being, radiating love. I met and spoke with Khandro-la’s three brothers and saw the beautiful monastery her parents created. We ate amazing Tibetan and Indian food and had plenty of time to talk.But what must also be shared is how much Khandro-la has grown into an accomplished and confident teacher. I was so happy to see and hear about the many people who come to her for teachings. She is a living embodiment of East and West — one of the light bridges in our world.

Teresa McGlashan ( San Francisco, USA)

Sey Jigme, Grace, Khandro Rinpoche and Yeshe.



I have travelled with Khandro Thrinlay Chodon on pilgrimage,

high into the Himalayas, twice before. The magnificence of those “hills” and the cultural exchange is something of which I just don’t seem to get enough of.My first Pilgrimage was in 2007, the second in 2010. However, it was the Dechog Pema Varja Drubchen and Himalayan Pilgrimage that, for me, put some of the unknown pieces of the Khachodling mandala/jigsaw together. This amazing experience has resulted in an even better understanding, and even deeper devotion, to Khandro Thrinlay Chodon and the projects of Khachodling. Since my return from the 2010 pilgrimage, where I witnessed first hand the horrendous

Humanitarian work in the Himalayas

and horrifying devastation that landslides across the Himalayas caused, I and a group of wonderful women have been organising Khachodling Luncheons here in Hervey Bay, Queensland.We have raised much needed funds for the many projects of Khachodling, so it was such a joy, so validating and humbling to be able to follow those funds raised back to where they are so needed.In Manali we were treated to an afternoon in the beautiful garden of the Bhutan Gompa, Khandro Rinpoche’s marriage home, where we met children in the Children’s Education Project, their mothers and Kezang. Kezang has recently returned to Manali and is generously leading the children’s education program

on Sunday afternoons. The group appears to be thriving. We were entertained with songs and recitals and a very big thank you from them to their sponsors… wherever they may be. Khandro Rinpoche reminds us that there are many more children who would benefit greatly from the Children’s Education Project and encourages us all to be part of such a rewarding and life-changing endeavour.Jane Miknius and Lama Tsewang showed me the shiny new roofing on some of the dwellings in the centre of Manali. Khachodling was able to provide the roof sheeting for these poor families during last year’s very, very wet and cold winter. It was also during that very, very cold winter that Khachodling

Himalayan Sunday school, Drukpa Gompa, Manali Hand feeding the cows this winter



helped feed the “sacred cows”in Manali, who otherwise would have perished.Lama Tsewang also accompanied me on a drive along the beautiful Beas River Valley to the thriving village of Nuggar to see first hand the Sharda Sheet Metal Industry where the life/eye-changing smokeless stoves are made. I had travelled with Khandro Rinpoche to Tso Moriri in 2010 where Khachodling held an eye care camp for the nomadic people summering in that area.Khachodling then first distributed the smokeless stoves to the

nomadic people in that area in 2011. I was both gladdened and saddened that Khandro-la and others from the 2013 pilgrimage were venturing high into the Himalayas again to gift more smokeless stoves to those amazingly devoted nomadic people. How I wish I could have accompanied them. I did, however, accompany Khandro Rinpoche and the 2013 pilgrimage group (along with more smokeless stoves) to the Khachodling Gompa and Nunnery at Sani, located in the beautiful and


amazing Zanskar Valley. It was such a joy to finally get to Zanskar as, although it had been planned on each of my previous pilgrimages, it was not to be at that time. I now felt as if the mandala was complete, or complete enough, for me to be able to share my first hand experiences of the wonderful work Khachodling, the vision and projects of Khandro Thrinlay Chodon is doing in the Indian Himalayas.

Jane Barnes (Hervey Bay, Australia)

Manali roof projectHand feeding the cows this winter

Manali roof project



Smokeless stoves arrive in lake tsomoriri warm clothes for the poor in Manali

Our completed shrine at Sani Gompa




A flower without a fragrance is similar to a life without a

purpose.As we grow, we learn how important each one of us can be to add happiness to our lives. Khandro Rinpoche is the living example of delivering ultimate happiness and serving this purpose, i.e. serving humanity.On behalf of Drukpa monastery, I, Kezang, the niece of Ngawang Jigme, H.H IX Shabdrung of Bhutan, would gratefully like to thank Khandro Rinpoche for being with us through our “thick and thins”.She, in order to serve the dharma, leaves her sweet, comfortable home here in Manali and goes overseas to spread the message of dharma and to enlighten people. We anxiously wait for her to come back so that we, too, can serve her.For me, she is like a mesmerising rainbow, which disappears and comes back again with lots of hope and happiness. Khandro Rinpoche’s sole life purpose is to serve the dharma, with which she inspires so many of us to connect.Our Khandro Rinpoche has, in the last three years, started free education for poor children, and has organised a Sunday Buddhist class for these children in her home. As all of us here are aware that our local Buddhist culture is being lost, especially amongst the latest generation, and so Khandro Rinpoche made it a strong point

to educate children and to raise awareness about the religion and culture. Through this class we allow each child to connect to the essence of Buddha in the simplest way, and help them understand how the Buddha path can protect us through our journey called life. We give ample space and time for children to express their emotions and grow spiritually.It gives me immense joy to pen down that the Sunday Buddhist class has been running successfully over the last three years. Children always look forward to attending this class of the heart and they are progressing with flying colours. I feel blessed as Khandro Rinpoche has appointed me as the teacher to guide these children. This year our three humble nuns have also begun teaching Tibetan alphabet and phonics. Parents also come and are enjoying their connection to their gompa.Through this Sunday class I myself have had a beautiful journey, which has brought me closer to Khandro Rinpoche and the Dharma. It has given me new wings and a deep purpose to bring joy to children and guide them. Khandro Rinpoche has secretly shown a mirror of life to me and slowly I am discovering myself, and my purpose of life.I humbly appreciate Khandro Rinpoche for bringing to life the joys in each one of us — the kids, their families, nuns, Rinpoche’s

family and other people. This small writing isn’t enough to let her know our gratitude towards her, but I pray that the Dharma that she spreads glorifies by each passing day!Long live Khandro Rinpoche.

Kezang (Manali, India)

Thanks from Drukpa Gompa, Manali

Kezang, Ani Namtar and the children

Visiting Imi-la’s new prayer wheel



Over the last few years Khandro Rinpoche has urged

people to offer donations to the dharma wheel project. It began on her birthday where instead of presents she suggested they give to the fund. Her personal car had been badly damaged in the 2010 Ladakh flood and became unusable in the rugged conditions of the high Himalayas, where her projects are mostly located.

Dharma Wheel Project realised! Thank you

Now after a few years, due to the commitment of Khandro Rinpoche and the kindness of donors, especially in Hong Kong and Australia, we have purchased a new Mahindra 500 all wheel drive. This car has been used in the visiting of each of the projects this year — Khandro Rinpoche travelled from Delhi to Manali, to Lahoul, Ladakh, Zanskar, Lake Tsomoriri and back again — over some of the highest and most

difficult terrain on the planet. A special thank you goes to all those whom so graciously gifted to this dharma wheel fund over the years. May the wheel of dharma keep turning... and we will also keep this dharma wheel fund alive to continue to support the ongoing costs of this vehicle and any new one we may need in the future.

Jane Miknius

Em Ah Ho! Mahindra 500 has made it to Lake Tsomoriri



Whilst in Zanskar, Khandro Rinpoche, in collaboration with local community members in the town of Padum, formulated a plan to record local Zanskari songs and dances. The making of this DVD is one of a number of initiatives supported by Khandro Rinpoche, in conjunction with the Kanishka Cultural Preservation Society, to preserve and protect the cultural integrity of the unique Zanskar region.Dressed in elegant traditional outfits and accompanied by damaan (drums) and surnaa (wind instrument), women and men of the Kanishka group

performed ten songs and dances at culturally significant gompas and stupas, plus in outdoor settings that showcased the stunning mountains and glaciers of Zanskar. The performances were filmed by Jane Miknius and the Zanskaris provided accompanying information, to be presented with the DVD, about the performances and costumes. The DVD thus ensures an archival record of these beautiful traditions is preserved, and offers viewers an insight into a truly vibrant cultural landscape.Following the success of the Lahouli Dechog Vajra Pema drubchen, and the potent

community building and widespread dharma benefits that resulted, Khandro la is envisaging a similar drubchen in Zanskar. This event will be supported by Kanishka and the local community.A portion of the proceeds from DVDs sold will go towards the Zanskar drubchen costs. Purchase provides a unique entertainment and education experience, plus the opportunity to support local community development and cultural preservation.

Ursula Horlock ( Hobart, Australia)

Traditional Zanskari Song & Dance DVD

Zanskari performers in traditional costume.



Khandro Rinpoche has shown extraordinary generosity

in her visits to Tasmania. Her kindness in travelling to a place so distant from her own home was underlined earlier this year when she bestowed an Avalokiteshvara empowerment on our very fortunate sangha. Indeed, this was the first time she had offered any empowerment in the West. The retreat was held over a weekend, the ceremony itself over the course of a very full day. The setting was the slopes of Mount Wellington, along which we walked one afternoon. A vast window looking out across the bush seemed to include the environment with which Khandro Rinpoche’s practice always seems to connect. During the ceremony, when the kartor and gektor were offered to the local spirits, this honouring and inclusion was manifest.While preparations were underway, it was beautiful to witness the local practice group working together creatively, harmoniously and with such fine care. Everyone approached the task of preparing the space with a palpable openness toward each other that touched the heart. Despite of our exertions, there was a real sense, as the bare, sparse community hall transformed into a truly sacred space, of the effortlessness of the endeavour.Although demanding excellence,

Avalokiteshvara empowerment in Hobart

Khandro Rinpoche was also very understanding in accommodating our lack of familiarity with this profound ritual. One of our Sangha, Peter — who with his wife, Christine, hosted Khandro Rinpoche during her stay — learnt during nightly pujas how to act as an altar attendant and then fulfilled this role in a relaxed but beautiful way. Her visit was full of these amazing, apparently spontaneously arising, gifts. Our practice has been enriched in so many ways. Although a small number of the Sangha had received the lung from Khandro Rinpoche, and one or two had received the empowerment from Gyeltshen Tulku Rinpoche, it was a marvellous opportunity

for a larger number to begin the practice of The Innermost Profound Vital Essence, the sadhana of this practice that comes directly from Khandro Rinpoche’s great grandfather, Togden Shakya Shri. Part of the energy for this visit came from the sustained practice and devotion of the practice group over a number of years. The monthly communal practice of the sadhana is now a vital part of this commitment. So the seeds sewn by Khandro Rinpoche, nurtured with practice, continue to grow.The devotion of those present was deeply touching. Everyone was very present, energetically; they opened their hearts and something really seemed to happen. For such a small, young Sangha it

Khandro Rinpoche in the west



was really amazing to see this blessing unfold. It was also inspiring to witness the power of Khandro Rinpoche. She was a potent conduit for all that this practice contains. Equally moving was seeing how those attending, despite our limitations, and with her support, were able to connect to this. During our time together Khandro Rinpoche also provided a commentary. She was able to illuminate our purpose so succinctly. It felt truly precious, an opportunity we may not have had in a more formal setting, and revealed again her skilful understanding concerning the situation of those present. Reflecting on this, my daughter, only ten then but

devoted to Khandro Rinpoche for many years, said simply, “Something just clicked”. Khandro Rinpoche’s explanations opened a door and moved our understandings from what to why.After such an undertaking it was impossible not to be struck anew with how hard Khandro Rinpoche works at being present and channelling the blessings of the path and by the generosity and commitment she brings to all that she gives. That she would even think to impart this empowerment to us at all is an immense privilege and an amazing opportunity. We live so far from the land of the lineage masters and yet their infinite blessings in waves — sometimes lapping, sometimes crashing —

still reach these distant shores. It is incumbent upon us to practice and not denigrate this gift.

Stuart Lord & Ursula Horlock

Avalokiteshvara empowerment in Hobart

Sunrise meditation on the MountainKhandro-la’s dear students and

friends gathered together, whilst it was still dark, bringing prayers and practice to the site called ‘The Springs’ on Mt Wellington, the mountain that dominates and oversees Hobart.Eyes gazed over the water as the sun’s first rays announced this new dawn. Sitting on ancient pillars of stone that provided us with a natural shrine, and with a backdrop of a vast canopy of trees that resounded with the awakening sounds of Nature, it was breathtakingly beautiful to

watch the sun rise and herald a new day. Embracing the first rays of light coming over the horizon whilst listening to the sounds of Khandrola Rinpoche’s ancient lineage prayers, each participant attentive to and supportive of the requirements of the practice and the recognition of the preciousness of each other and the place we were in. There, we were aligned to respectfully welcome in the new day, creating history and honoring the traditions of the ancient

masters, seen and unseen. Prayers were made and songs sung for the traditional elders and holders of Tasmania’s Aboriginal culture, for the awakening of Buddha Nature within all of us, and for the blessing of being with Khandro Rinpoche on the path to enlightenment. Many an ‘ah’ moment. Thank you everybody!

Mark Loveridge & Maggy Agrey ( Hobart, Australia)

Disolving the mandala



Whilst driving to the ‘Blessing of the Land and

Sea Ceremony, near Cygnet last January, another blessing was lying, lifeless, on the side of the road. Driving in Tasmania often means being ‘struck in the heart’ whilst passing yet another ‘road kill’. These innocent little creatures are often given a burial in my vegie patch and, as the plants grow, I try to reconcile my sadness. As I wistfully cradled a perfect white goshawk from my car into Khandro Rinpoche’s ceremony, a heavy sadness and uncertainty shrouded me. What to do with this magnificent feathered angel?During the following hours, streams of blessed prayer flags flew between the tree tops during the following hoursa, the spirit of our world lifted by an ancient Tibetan ritual, deeply honouring the earth and nature. Meanwhile, close by, our snow white bird was lying lifeless.As this auspicious day drew to an end, with the joyful sharing of happy chatter hanging in the air, a small tentative thought arose between those of us who were digging the little grave. Could we honour its life by asking Khandro-la for a final blessing before we rested the bird into the earth? A message was sent with our request while we lay the bird on a garland of seaweed and shells set amongst Tibetan ceremonial

Connecting with land, sea and sky

icons. Our request was granted and our pensive hearts soothed as Kandro-la emerged between the trees on her winding path to the beautiful altar by the sea.With such spontaneous understanding and outward joy, Kandro-la held the bird and said ‘this is very auspicious, it has come to our ceremony, we are blessed’. Kandro-la, with a calm grace, found the prayers she sought within her ancient text. Then, in front of us, unfolded the transformation of earthbound death into soaring lightness and limitless peace as Khandro Rinpoche performed a puja she had never previously used in the West.

The birds spirit had flown.It is said in the scriptures that just as a fish may be hidden under the water yet still recognised through its movements in the ripples above, so a teachers inner qualities can be seen through their actions. That day, Kandro Rinpoche’s actions were, for me, the ripples moving on the surface. The lessons experienced beside that altar have morphed into my feathers. The golden line that ties all life together, the gossamer thread that traverses the ‘now life’ into the life beyond, was glistening and riding on the prayer flags as our goshawk flew into Infinity.

Margie Latona ( Hobart, Australia)

Performing the puja for the goshawk near Cygnet, Tasmania



Compassionate teachings in Melbourne

Rinpoche stayed in Melbourne, in our home, for almost a

month from February to March and gave many teachings including bestowing the Chenrezig wang. I really cannot even begin to explain to you what happened... I’m still not entirely sure what actually took place. Honestly, it was just about everything you could think of ,all happening at once every day, and then a lot of other stuff that I can’t quite fathom. Cooking, laughing, dharma practice, Khandro Rinpoche singing songs and serving dinner to my elderly mother, being deeply scolded by Rinpoche but surprisingly not minding, cleaning, frantic organisation, exhaustion, tears, laughter, anger, wires crossed all around, Rinpoche regularly getting warts

removed from her feet but not complaining, apparent chaos, miracles going on under our noses like one reads about that nobody will believe, and plenty of compassionate teaching from Rinpoche. We had lovely visitors in our home from Sydney and Perth too and somehow we all managed. We even pitched a tent and took turns sleeping outside – Rinpoche particularly enjoyed doing that. My family deeply wishes she was still here. My home will always be her home. We miss the chaos and the fun terribly — normal life just doesn’t compare. While it’s also very nice to have a quiet house, really we yearn for how it was. We miss Rinpoche constantly. With the visit over, Dianne and I talk about all the fun we had every day, Mum is knitting Rinpoche

a warm jumper, I am still laughing about some of the things Rinpoche did and everything in our home is better, happier and improved. Even Trixie, our dog, has improved since Rinpoche stayed: she’s more confident, a better watchdog and more affectionate. Khandro Rinpoche’s teachings were really beyond description. What I noticed was that during question times people usually had no questions at all about the teaching – people’s doubts were completely resolved. There was a point during the Chenrezig wang where I thought Rinpoche was going to fly into the sky— the power was overwhelming. I’m glad it didn’t happen. Please don’t fly away anytime soon Rinpoche.

Sean White( Melbourne, Australia)

Feminine altar created by students - Melbourne empowerment Sang Offering



In March, Kate and I eagerly greeted Khandro Rinpoche,

accompanied by Ani Palmo, at Sydney airport. They had travelled from Melbourne where Sydney sangha members Jen, Robyn and Annie had also travelled to receive the Avalokiteshvara empowerment from Rinpoche. They reported that it was a very moving and powerful experience, and that they had loved being with the Melbourne sangha.Whilst no empowerment was scheduled for Sydney, Rinpoche’s schedule was, as ever, full. It began immediately with the blessing of Kunsang’s new home en route to Narrabeen where Rinpoche was to stay. Here the lagoon meets the ocean and I took Ani Palmo for her first swim in twenty two years, which she immensely enjoyed! After breakfast and time enjoying the morning sun on the garden balcony, Kate took Rinpoche and Ani to Balmain to stay with Robyn for a few days before taking Rinpoche up to Blackheath in the Blue Mountains where she was graciously hosted by Jenny Kee at Jenny’s beautiful home with its sweeping escarpment views. Here Sydney sangha members attended an early morning Connecting to Land Ceremony, with a fire puja and the hanging of prayer flags, conducted by Rinpoche —a truly magical experience! We were deeply grateful to Rinpoche and Jenny for this wonderful opportunity.

Bonding with Sangha & Lineage in Sydney

Breakfast was followed by Avalokiteshvara practice, concluding with a moving blessing by Rinpoche, including a healing for those in need.Rinpoche presented Jenny Kee with a Dharma bag embroidered with the Khachodling emblem of lotus and waratah, a design Jenny had generously created and offered. She was deeply moved to see the fruits of her work. Khandro Rinpoche’s brief Sydney stay concluded with a farewell shamatha practice.Several members of the Sydney sangha then followed her to Hervey Bay, where she was giving an Avalokiteshvara empowerment. We were greeted by the lovely Hervey Bay sangha and had the chance, in this different place, to connect to the land there with a fire puja and by raising prayer flags. Our time culminated with the empowerment, which was a deeply moving experience, grounding and strengthening our connection to Rinpoche and the Drukpa lineage masters and practices. Kate, Helen, Robyn and Bill stayed with Khandro Rinpoche at the Beautiful Hervey Bay Dharma Centre, and it was lovely for us to connect with Hervey Bay sangha members. In the morning Rinpoche, Jane and I did tai chi with Hervey Bay Tai chi group members, and Ani Lhamo and I went for swims. Later, Rinpoche and Helen got to swim — Helen sporting a broken

toe on her return to Sydney after a little misadventure with a submerged rock!One night, Jane, and the ladies from the Tai Chi group who kindly hold regular dinners to fundraise for Khachodling, hosted a dinner for Rinpoche and Ani. I volunteered as co-partner in the venture and we shopped together. I was chuffed that my curry got the nod and the Tai chi ladies were touched that we cooked for them. It was a good suggestion of Jane’s and I enjoyed the opportunity to reconnect with some old familiar faces I met at a River Head barbecue for Rinpoche and His Eminence Ghyeltsen Tulku a year before. Rinpoche’s Sydney visit was short and sweet, necessitating Sydney members travelling to Melbourne and Hervey Bay for the elusive Empowerment. On reflection, that actually turned out to be a good thing and probably part of the divine plan. Now we are more deeply bonded with our fellow Khachodling family members from the other states; and through these precious opportunity to take empowerment from Khandro Rinpoche, we are more deeply bonded to her and her lineage masters; more open to receive their blessings, and more empowered to practice! For all these blessings we are very grateful.

Susy Benson ( Sydney, Australia)



Strength & inspiration in Hervey Bay

Well, what can I say? The lead up to Khandro

Rinpoche’s visit this year in Hervey Bay, Queensland, was very exciting, uplifting, and busy. We had only days together but, none-the-less, they were filled with beautiful community gatherings. On the Friday morning — two days after Rinpoche’s arrival — we had a Connecting Land to Sea Ceremony. We held the practice across the road from the Khachodling Centre in a newly developed park. Rinpoche, along with Lobsang, Ani Palmo, and a few additional, ordained local sangha sat together under the large gum trees. Rinpoche then began blessing the land and acknowledging all the local beings. All substances were offered to the fire and everyone participated. It was visually beautiful, with a view of the sea through the trees, and sun shining. The older prayer flags were all offered to the fire; the new flags were linked together, one by one, making a huge colourful circle in the park. During this part of the ceremony, Rinpoche came around with handfuls of flour for everyone, and we awaited the time to throw the flour up in the air. Then we all threw our hands in the air and shouted, “Lha gyalo!” releasing the flour. Moments after, Rinpoche came running past and smeared flour on all our faces. The day was fun and

spontaneous, the park was blessed and everyone was truly happy. Leading up to, and during, the empowerment, the teachings and compassion from Rinpoche awakened me. I felt fearful in a way I hadn’t experienced before. With some contemplation I figured out why, it was because I was falling in love with Khandro Rinpoche. Watching Rinpoche speak, her self-assurance, how her words seem to penetrate so deeply that the truth can sound astounding. It was an admiration I felt. I had found someone whom I wanted to emulate. It made me cry and, at the same time, I felt strength, inspiration and determination. I’m being honest when I say I have never felt this before. I am so grateful and feel so blessed. The final event was absolutely and amazingly auspicious. Picture a huge poinciana tree, on a small hill, on the water’s edge, with streams of sunlight shining through the leaves of the tree. We released seven hundred fish

and one lucky turtle back into the wild. I think most people have never thought of such an idea as to purchase an animal and then release it back into its environment. The idea itself refreshed our minds and, through the act, compassion was deeply instilled in us. The turtle was the last to be released. Turtles are very auspicious in Buddhism, representing long life. It felt so timely, as this was near the begining of Khandro Rinpoche’s inauspicious year. Lobsang, our resident monk, marked the syllable HUM on the turtle’s back, and then the practice began. After the animals were released, what would you know? The turtle came back to the water’s edge for another blessing, and a hello to Khandro Rinpoche. Khandro Rinpoche, may you please live long, may you please live long, may you please live long.

Khema Kunzang ( Hervey Bay, Australia)

Releasing turtle to freedomCelebrating the Life Release



The deeper essence of practice in Hong Kong

It was a great blessing that Khandro-la visited Hong

Kong in late March. As she does wherever she goes, Khandro-la addressed the needs and unspoken sufferings of many; she inspired beneficial actions through her unique way of imparting teachings, based on bodhichitta, from her family yogic lineage of Togden Shakya Shri.Her journey to Hong Kong was not without challenges. Her flight from Australia was delayed, triggering a chain of events — that delayed her arrival into Hong Kong by an entire day. This resulted in squeezing her schedule into a now shortened stay. Recounting all of this, Khandro-la emphasised the importance of integrating dharma practice and positive action into our daily life, even when we are under pressure or when pursuing what we believe to be our rights.During her brief three day stay, she cared for the problems of her student friends, checked up on others, gave blessings, procured needed items, fulfilled requests for her sangha, and also those who take care of her sangha in the Himalayas, made new acquaintances young and old, conducted a group practice, shared the excitement and progress of her projects, discussed upcoming plans — including her November 2013 visit to Hong Kong. And, as always, inspiring many to think anew about how

they can engage in dharma practice and contribute within the short span of this precious human existence.When the circumstance was right, and despite having very limited time, Khandro-la took the opportunity to guide us through the profound Chenrezig practice according to Shakya Shri’s mind terma. After instructing us to put our palms together in front of our chest (the Anjali mudra), Khandro-la asked, “What is the significance of holding this mudra that all of you know and often apply?” Then, via explanation, Khandro-la imparted the deeper essence of the profound practice.When it became known that Khadchodling’s camera is ageing and needed replacement, the HK sangha started an informal effort to secure funds to purchase a new camera and lens, allowing those who knew about the situation to participate in this wonderful opportunity to contribute. In fact, Khandro-la took the initiative to put up the seed money! In the end, she received contributions from all sangha members present, with

one sangha member offering to underwrite the remaining funds needed to make the purchase.Those who are familiar with Khachodling know that Khandro-la always channels the resources she is able to collect towards the support of her nuns and retreatants, to the preservation of teachings and to the betterment of the lives of Himalayan nomads via the charitable projects of Khachodling. In addition to the many beautiful photos taken by the Khachodling team during pilgrimages to holy sites and other parts of the world, that ageing camera also generated many of the beautiful videos that allow more people to understand Khachodling and Khandro-la’s vision and work. The sale of the photos also provides a steady source of funds, and reflects Khachodling’s effort to be self-sustainable, adhering to the yogic tradition. Hong Kong awaits Khandro-la’s next visit, and planning is underway for events in November. Please stay tuned!

Jonathan Chau (Hong kong)

Khandro Rinpoche will teach next month in Hong Kong

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