MARATIKA RETREAT AND PILGRIMAGE

& BHUTAN PILGRIMAGE

A Rare Journey Into the Heart of Himalayan Spiritual Heritage

In an era when authentic pilgrimage experiences are becoming increasingly scarce, Shang Shung UK—together with the MACO Museum of Oriental Art and Culture—presents one of the most significant sacred journeys of the coming year: the Maratika Retreat and Pilgrimage, taking place 21 March to 5 April 2026.

Travellers will begin their journey in Kathmandu, walking among ancient temples and vibrant streets before continuing eastward into the tranquil landscapes of rural Nepal. The destination is Maratika, the revered cave complex where Guru Padmasambhava and Princess Mandarava are traditionally believed to have attained the realisation of long life. For practitioners of the Mandarava teachings as transmitted by Chögyal Namkhai Norbu, Maratika holds a particularly profound importance.

Participants will visit the renowned Heruka Cave, the Secret Cave of Mandarava, the Naga Cave, the Garuda Cave, and several other rarely accessible sacred sites. Alongside these explorations, the 16-day retreat will integrate traditional practices, including dance on the mandala, Yantra Yoga, and explanations led by qualified Santi Maha Sangha instructors. A notable highlight will be the placement of a special stupa designed by Rigzin Changchub Dorje, to be installed in Maratika during the journey.

You can view the recording of the webinar we had about the trip here:

LOTTERY LAUNCHED — WIN A FULLY-FUNDED PILGRIMAGE TO MARATIKA

To support ongoing cultural and educational projects—and to offer one fortunate supporter the chance of a lifetime—Shang Shung UK has launched a special fundraiser lottery. For a €50 donation, entrants will have the chance to win:

€1,000 toward airfare to Kathmandu
A fully funded place on the 21 March – 5 April 2026 Maratika pilgrimage
Accommodation, local travel, and guided visits to the sacred cave sites

Further prizes include one-week stays near Merigar and at Dzamling Gar, traditional Tibetan astrology readings, merit-making offerings, and prayer flags raised at Maratika on the winner’s behalf.

Tickets are limited. Readers are encouraged to enter early.

Lottery entry: https://www.shangshunguk.org/fundraiser-for-nepal/?external=1