The Chhimed Rigdzin Society announces the 13th Butterlamp Ceremony to be held from 24.12.2002 to 15.1.2003 at the Chhimed Rigdzin Society´s Monastery at Dhansara village, Ranidanga, Siliguri, Dist. Darjeeling, W.B., India.
Tulku Thondup Rinpoche will be inaugerating the Gompa on Dec. 25th. He has given his consent to stay and give teachings. Gudrun and Rolf will attend the retreat. As it will be the inaugeration of the Gompa we are looking forward to inviting more Rinpoches and Tulkus. We will update the list of the invitees (Rinpoches, Lamas, Tulkus) as and when confirmed.
Fees: The retreat fee inclusive food is Indian Rupees 7.000,-- per person. A sum of Rs 7000,-- would be charged for the accomodation (twin-share basis bamboo hut). And Rs 11000.—for couples or occupying alone. One may bring a tent and no charge for accomodation will be asked.
Money changing:The State Bank in Siliguri is changing only USD and British Pounds in cash and American Express and Thomas Cook travellers' checks. EC cards can be used at cash machines (max Rs 20.000) of UTI bank in Shiv Mandir and Siliguri, Credit cards at the Bank of Baroda/Siliguri and other currency could be tried at the private moneychangers for a higher rate. To avoid any problem the best is to change in Delhi or Calcutta.
Food: Both, vegetarian and non-vegetarian food will be provided. Those who will bring children should bring the necessary special diets along with their medicines.
Baby-sitter: Can be arranged for a payment of Rs. 70,-- per day. Those who need, should specify it in their confirmation letter.
Medicine: It is preferrable that people bring their basic medicines and should be vaccinated against Malaria.
Clothing: Though the weather is quite enjoyable, it is moderately cold in the night and in the morning. A good woolen pullover/jacket would be good. Do not forget to bring your sleeping-bag.
How to reach: For those who never came to Siliguri before, a transportation will be made to pick you up from the train station and from the airport. Cost: RS. 250,--. After landing in any of the cities like Delhi, Bombay (Mumbai), Calcutta, and Madras, one should book a train ticket with destination N.J.P. (New Jalpaiguri) or an air ticket with destination Bagdogra Airport. Those who wish to be picked up at the train station or at the airport should send a message when their final bookings are done.
For return journey: Please note: It is better to reach the final departure point at least two days in advance.
Registration: We request early registration, latest until end of Oct. by e-mail to uclama (ad) rediffmail.com or by fax to U.C. LAMA no 0091 353 581593
Tulku Migmed has agreed to do reservations for trains from Delhi to NJP if he is asked one month in advance: Mr D.M.R. Lama, N-17 Green Park Extension, New-Delhi 110016, India, Tel. 0091-11-619-4347, fax: 0091-11-619-4145, DMIGSMED (ad) indiatimes.com,
It is expected from every participant to involve in the work of the retreat and show discipline and tolerance towards others.
U.C. Lama