Frequently Asked Questions
Environment
Karmê Chöling is located on approximately 600 acres of rolling hills in northeastern Vermont. The center features seven meditation halls, a Zen archery range, an organic garden, private and shared rooms, and full dining facilities. We enjoy warm summers, spectacular New England fall foliage, crisp, snowy winters, and beautiful, temperate spring seasons.
Accommodations
There are a number of accommodation options at Karmê Chöling and in the surrounding community. For descriptions, amenities, and prices, please view our accommodations page.
Registration
To register for a program, go to our program calendar listing and choose the program you would like to attend. Click on the "register" button, complete the form, and click "submit." You can pay your deposit online, or by sending a check or money order through the mail. You are fully registered for a program when we receive this deposit. You can also call (802) 633-2384 with your credit card information, or fax your completed registration form to (802) 633-3012.
Deposit, Refund and Cancellation Policy
- Programs that cost under $500 require a $100 deposit.
- Programs that cost $500 or more require a $200 deposit.
- Deposits and payments are refundable up to two weeks prior to the program start date, minus a $25 cancellation fee.
- After the two week deadline, Karmê Chöling will deduct a $25 cancellation fee and retain the rest of your deposit as credit towards another program. This credit will expire after two years. Any payments over the deposit will be refunded.
- No refunds or credits are given for cancellations on or after arrival day.
What to Bring
- Clothing suitable for your program and the season, including loose-fitting, comfortable clothes for meditation and yoga, as well as warm clothing (winter coat, hat, scarf and gloves) in winter, spring and fall. For evenings in warm months, a sweater or light jacket is recommended. In summer, you may want to bring a bathing suit for nearby lakes.
- Toiletries, including shampoo, soap, lotion and sunscreen. You can also buy toiletries in our store.
- A towel, particularly if towels are not provided as part of your lodging arrangement.
- Flashlight with extra batteries.
- Shawl, blanket, and warm socks if you need extra layers for warmth, particulary if you are sleeping in the meditation hall or in a tent.
- Bag or pack to carry your texts or other items.
- Calling card. These can also be purchased at the store.
- If you are sleeping on the floor of the meditation hall or in a tent, please bring all necessary bedding, including sheets, blankets or a sleeping bag, and a pillow. Foam mattresses will be provided.
- Battery-powered alarm clock, particularly if you are not staying in the Karmê Chöling main building. (On most days, there is a 6:30 AM wake-up bell throughout the house.)
- Formal and festive clothing options for parties, celebrations, formal dinners and feasts.
- Comfortable walking shoes. Indoor shoes should be easy to slip on and off, as shoes cannot be worn in meditation halls. In the winter, bring warm winter boots and heavy socks.
- Cash for the Karmê Chöling store (clothing, gifts, snacks, cards, medicine, toiletries), Samadhi Cushions and Book Store (books and practice materials), a teaching gift if applicable, and other purchases. An ATM is available one mile from Karmê Chöling at the Barnet General Store.
- Several dollars' worth of quarters for the washing machines and clothes driers, which are coin operated. The store can make change, but it is only open a few hours each day.
Communications
We have public phones available, as well as very limited internet use. Because cell phones generally do not get service at Karmê Chöling (some phones on the Verizon network are an exception), you should purchase a calling card if you plan to make long-distance phone calls. If your cell phone does work, we ask that you use it only in your private room, the mud room or the main parking lot, and only between the hours of 7:00 AM and 10:30 PM. Please do not use the staff offices for computer or phone access. In general, please make an effort to be mindful in your approach to communication and technology while you are at Karmê Chöling.
It may be difficult for others to reach you during a program, so it is best to coordinate an appropriate day and time for communication. The best number for friends and family to call is (802) 633-2384.
Medical Information
When you visit Karmê Chöling, you will be asked to fill out a Participant Medical Information Form to let us know of any medical conditions you have. If you are taking medications, please ensure that you bring a sufficient supply for the duration of your visit. The closest pharmacy is approximately 15 minutes away by car. If you have any specific health concerns, or would like to change the dosage of any of your medications, please meet with your physician before your program begins.
Transportation
Karmê Chöling is located in Northeast Vermont, one hour north of White River Junction off Interstate 91. Our address is:
Karmê Chöling
369 Patneaude Lane
Barnet, Vermont 05821
To get here by car, take exit 18 (Barnet/Peacham) off Interstate 91, drive west for one-half mile, and take the second right, Patneaude Lane.
For more information, please view our Transportation page.
If you have any further questions about life at Karmê Chöling, please email our reception desk at reception@karmecholing.org or call (802) 633-2384.
