SENDA LOTO
After studying and living in Tibetan temples and retreats for many years, Pema founded Senda Loto as a sanctuary for those seeking clarity. Nestled in the sacred Sierra Nevada of Colombia—the “Heart of the World”—our retreat offers a timeless path following the teachings of Tibetan Dzogchen master Dudjom Rinpoche. Set within a comfortable space surrounded by breathtaking nature—mountains, jungle, and flowing rivers—meditation and yoga here are not just practiced, but lived.
Our daily program balances Shamatha (calm-abiding) and Vipassana (insight) meditation, Hatha yoga, and conscious breathwork. Periods of noble silence alternate with optional moments of social time, creating a supportive structure to turn inward, rest deeply, and reconnect—with yourself, a group of like-minded people, and nature.
What truly sets us apart, though, is our non-dual approach, gently pointing you back to the boundless nature of your own awareness. This is more than just a retreat—it’s an invitation to step out of the conceptual mind and return to the wholeness within.
Losing both parents in childhood, followed by the loss of his inheritance, set Pema on a lifelong search for meaning. These early experiences revealed the fragile nature of worldly security at a young age. While music initially became a refuge—and led to a successful international career—the unresolved pain of his youth eventually gave rise to a period of deep inner struggle and addiction.
At his lowest point, a profound insight into the transient nature of thoughts, emotions, and the mind itself reshaped his life. Pema walked away from his career and possessions to devote himself fully to the Dharma. He spent the next fifteen years in dedicated practice within the yogic and Tibetan Buddhist traditions, particularly Dzogchen, studying under masters such as the Dalai Lama, Dzongsar Khyentse, and his root teacher, Loppon Jigme Rinpoche.
After years of solitary and wandering retreat and training with wild yogis in remote areas, Pema felt a deep calling to the Sierra Nevada of Colombia. Recognizing a profound spiritual resonance between the indigenous wisdom of these mountains and the ancient traditions of the Himalayas, he founded Senda Loto to bridge these two worlds. His teaching remains grounded, direct, and free from spiritual pretense, pointing to a practical insight: meeting life as it is, with clarity, humility, and an open heart.
Whether you’re just starting your journey or have years of experience, Senda Loto is the perfect place to return to the wholeness within you.
Look beyond appearances and recognize your inherent clarity. This immersive retreat centers on Shamatha (calm abiding) and Vipassana (insight) meditation, as transmitted by Dudjom Rinpoche. The practice is supported by daily Hatha Yoga, Q&A sessions, Tibetan breathwork, and extended periods of noble silence—creating the ideal conditions to deepen your path and stabilize insight.
1-Week Retreat | Guided in English | Support for Spanish-Only Speakers
Discover a gentle path to inner calm and clarity. This retreat offers an accessible introduction to foundational mindfulness and gentle Hatha Yoga, designed to soothe the nervous system, reduce stress, and naturally cultivate deeper self-awareness. It’s an ideal starting point if you look for a relaxed, nourishing retreat that supports balance, wellbeing, and a more mindful way of living.
1-Week or 3-Day Retreat | Guided in Spanish and English.
At Senda Loto, we believe in the healing power of food and craft our meals carefully to promote overall well-being and health. Our thoughtfully assembled meals feature locally grown food and sustainably sourced ingredients, prepared with lots of love. We have vegan, vegetarian, and pescatarian options.
During meals, we practice mindful eating so the food nourishes not only our bodies but also our minds and spirits. To facilitate this, our meals are eaten in Noble Silence.
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