The Tashi Gomang Stupa is totally enclosed and contains many special objects. Offerings were placed underneath it in tribute to the goddess of the earth and local deities. It was considered essential to ask their permission before construction could take place. The base or throne of the stupa was filled with juniper which has special powers of purification. Offering vases were placed in the juniper along with musical instruments, medicines, herbs, food, precious substances, silks, brocades, and perfumes. Through the blessings of the stupa, these substances will work to bring good health, harmony, peace, and prosperity to its surroundings and the world.
Sitting high above the town, the Crestone Ziggurat is among the most noticeable—and scenic—of the settlement’s spiritual structures. Ziggurats are large structures first built in ancient Mesopotamia out of sun-dried bricks. According to archaeological interpretations of ancient texts, they were typically constructed as shrines atop large complexes of buildings, with either a series of ramps on one side or a single spiral ramp leading to the top. Ancient ziggurats were intended to be dwelling places for the gods, not for public worship. Today, the ziggurat is open to the public. Visitors can climb the spiral ramp to the top, which offers stunning views of the surrounding area, making it a perfect spot for reflection and quiet contemplation. Visitors are encouraged to arrange rocks in a personal design at its base as a form of meditation and intention setting.
There's nothing else like it. The tallest dunes in North America are the centerpiece of a diverse landscape of grasslands, wetlands, conifer and aspen forests, alpine lakes, and tundra. Experience this diversity through hiking, sand sledding, splashing in Medano Creek, wildlife watching, and more!
Joyful Journey offers a variety of accommodations, ranging from our comfortable Hotel Rooms with private bathrooms and aspen-wood furniture, to native Tipis, all-season Yurts, or RV and campsites.
It's a unique place where visitors can immerse themselves in nature while connecting personally with OLT's cycle of sustainability. Through their stewardship and contributions, they help preserve the natural resources they so enjoy. Families can learn about and share this delicate eco-sanctuary with their children and pets. The property is entirely clothing optional and exists completely "off the grid", self-sustaining its amazing variety of features. A membership is needed to visit. You can get one for $35 on their website.