2026 Shamatha-Vipashana Retreat with Jakob Leschly

We are delighted to announce the return of our annual Shamatha-Vipashana retreat in 2026!

All Buddhist meditation is founded on the skillful practice of calm abiding or shamatha which grounds us in our immediate reality, and the wisdom of penetrative insight vipashyana, which opens us beyond habitual mind into the greater experience of awakening. This retreat offers an opportunity to cultivate both aspects of meditation through the connection with an authentic lineage of practice.

The retreat will centre on sitting meditation, drawing on the practice instructions from the Nyingma and Kagyu traditions of Tibetan Buddhism. The rhythm of the day will follow short, focused sessions that support clarity and freshness without strain. Held in silence, the retreat also includes walking meditation, mindful tea practice, and movement that gently integrates awareness. The approach is spacious and grounded, open to both new and experienced practitioners alike.

This year we are happy to announce that our friends David and Niu Niu from Chi-Ki-Cha will be leading the daily Qi-Gong and providing high quality Chinese tea for our practice of mindful tea.

---

Location

Lapis is a Dharma centre outside Mullumbimby in Northern NSW.

Set across 26 acres of subtropical bush and gardens, it is easily accessible yet peacefully secluded.

---

Accommodation

Participants are encouraged to camp on site for a more immersive retreat experience.

Alternatively, those who prefer can stay off-site in nearby accommodation.

---

Food

Three beautiful vegetarian meals will be provided each day designed to support a nourished and clear mind!

We will cater to Vegan and Gluten Free needs as well.

---

Teacher

The retreat will be led by Jakob Leschly, who will offer general instruction and one-on-one interviews.

Jakob began his Buddhist studies in 1974 and has studied with many great teachers, particularly Kyabje Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche, Dudjom Rinpoche, and Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche. Jakob has been teaching meditation and Buddhist philosophy for over 25 years as an appointed instructor for Siddhartha’s Intent by Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche.