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"Our real work is taking care of our own minds."
Ven. Lama Chödak Gyatso Nubpa

SUMMER 2023
(COVID-19 & Operational Update)

In consultation with our most venerable Lamas and trusted board advisors, Ari Bhöd’s retreat land Pema Drawa is OPEN.  Ari Bhöd members and guests may schedule solitary retreats throughout the upcoming year. We are currently allowing for group event participation and with safety protocols in place. Personal visits remain by RSVP only. For group retreats guests may be required to show proof of: Vaccination, negative PCR COVID test OR negative FDA authorized antigen test within 48 hours of arrival.  

Ari Bhöd continues to uphold our full suite of practice commitments. We are looking forward to welcoming The Venerable Gelong Kalsang RinpocheVenerable Lama Ngawang Thogme and Amche Tsering Chozom in support of our annual retreats and programing this year!

As always, we endeavor to provide as many group practice opportunities to our friends and community online via Zoom and in person as safety and schedules permit. We encourage everyone to continue making the most of these times by deepening your Dharma practice.  May Wisdom and Compassion Flourish!


Welcome to Ari Bhöd the American Foundation for Tibetan Cultural Preservation. Established by the Venerable Lama Chödak Gyatso Nubpa Rinpoche in 2003, our mission is to preserve and transmit the priceless legacy of the ancient Nyingma lineage of Tibetan Buddhism, a sacred culture of peace that has been kept vital and effective through more than fifty generations of lifelong practitioners and lineage masters.

Ari Bhöd’s retreat center, Pema Drawa, is located on 475 acres in the serene mountains of Tehachapi, California where northern and southern California meet. Ari Bhöd’s retreat land was given the name “Pema Drawa” (Lotus Web) by His Holiness the 4th Dodrupchen Rinpoche in 2009. Ari Bhöd’s principle programs and activities include:

  • Traditional Tibetan Art and Architecture
  • Meditation Practice and Ceremonies
  • Facilitating Authentic Retreats and Events
  • Text Translation and Publishing