Where is International Kadampa Retreat Center Grand Canyon?

International Kadampa Retreat Center Grand Canyon is located in Arizona in the United States. It is adjacent to Old Route 66, at 7,000 feet above sea level, between the town of Williams (10 miles west) and Flagstaff (30 miles to the east).

The area is abundant in sightseeing, hikes, historic landmarks, and national parks — only an hour’s drive to the Grand Canyon, 45 minutes to Sedona, and 40 minutes to Mount Humphreys, the tallest point in the state at 12,633 feet. It is 2.5 hours drive from Sky Harbor International Airport in Phoenix and 3.5 hours from Harry Reid International Airport in Las Vegas.

Visit the Travel Info page for details on how to get to IKRC Grand Canyon.

Currency

The currency in the United States is the US Dollar (USD$).

Climate & Conditions

This part of Arizona is not what you might expect, being 7,000 feet (2,130m) above sea level. Early October is the start of the Fall foliage season. Daytime temperatures are generally in the mid-70s (23°C) with night time temperatures dropping to the low-40s (6°C). So please be sure to pack appropriate clothing.

Altitude

At 7000 ft (2,130m), the sun is quite strong so you are advised to bring sun protection. Anyone who has concerns about the altitude should speak to their own health professional before travelling.

Natural Environment

The IKRC borders the Kaibab National Forest which is a very large forest covering a total area of 1.6 million acres. There are many unmarked forest paths close to the IKRC and it is very easy to get lost. Festival attendees are requested not to walk in the forest. Kaibab National Forest is also home to many species of wild animals. Whilst they will naturally shun human contact, you are requested to be cautious and to not feed wild animals. Campers in particular must not keep any food in their tents.

Travel & Medical Insurance

We strongly recommend that you purchase adequate travel and medical insurance in case of unexpected illness or cancellation of all or part of your Festival. In particular if staying in Festival offsite hotels please note the refund and cancellation terms - these are in accordance with our contractual obligations with the accommodation providers.

Can I book accommodation through the Festival?

Yes. You can book accommodation through your Festival booking cart. You can choose from a variety of accommodation options onsite at IKRC Grand Canyon as well as at hotels in the nearby town of Williams. Daily shuttles will run from the Festival site to the hotels - see the Travel Info page for more information. If you are planning to bring a car, note that parking is limited - see the Parking page for more information.

Arrival & Registration

You are required to show your booking confirmation letter (either digital or printed) to gain access to the Festival site. If you do not have it with you, you will be asked to show some other form of photo identification, such as your passport, or driving licence.

If staying in offsite Festival hotels, you will be required to show your passport (non-US citizens) or drivers license (US citizens) at checkin. A credit card must also be registered for each room - guests are liable for any incidental charges.

Campers must register before pitching your tent and only camp in designated areas. Strictly no naked flames of any kind (e.g. candles, gas cookers or gas lighting) are permitted anywhere on the campsite. 

Full payment is required before arriving at the Festival however, if there are any outstanding fees, please be prepared to pay these when you register on arrival either in cash (USD), or credit/debit card.

General Guidelines

During your visit to IKRC Grand Canyon you are requested to please refrain from smoking (incl. electronic cigarettes), taking intoxicants and drinking alcohol in the building and in the grounds.

Pets

Please note that it is not possible to bring pets to the Festival or to leave them in vehicles.

Security

You will be required to wear a Festival Pass at all times. Please co-operate fully with this requirement for the sake of the safety and smooth running of the Festival. Please note that the Festival Management cannot accept responsibility for any loss or damage to personal items or cars parked either on or off the Festival site. Please bring essential items only and carry valuables with you.

Volunteering

The entire Festival is organised and run by volunteers. There are many opportunities and ways in which you can help, such as preparing food, serving, clearing, dish-washing, cleaning, setting up, cafes etc. It is a wonderful way to meet with other Kadampas from around the world – your contribution of time and energy is an important part of making the whole thing happen.

To find out how you can get involved, please see the volunteering page.

Photography

Flash photography, video or audio recording are not permitted in the Temple during sessions.