RETREATS
The purpose of retreat is deepening the understanding of Dharma through intensive contemplation and integrating it into one's mind stream. Undisturbed by worldly activity, the mind has the opportunity to turn inward and explore the inner world.
Kopan supports experienced practitioners as well as beginners for retreat.
PRIVATE RETREATS
"Retreat offers a situation where it is possible to fulfill our basic human potential and develop all the positive qualities within ourselves." Lama Zopa Rinpoche
important points
1. If you are new to Buddhism, we recommend you first attend one of our introductory courses to create the base for your retreat. Following this, you can talk to our resident meditation teacher to seek advice on how to create a proper retreat schedule and what meditations to do.
2. Kopan does not have the facilities for Mindfulness or Vipassana retreats. We recommend that you contact the Burmese Center in Lumbini, which offers perfect facilities and support for this kind of retreat.
3. If you planning to come for self-study, some time for reflection or similar, please book for a private stay.
4. Short retreats are for a minimum of 10 days.
5. Long retreats for experienced Tibetan Buddhism students are for a maximum of 3 months.
COST AND ACCOMMODATION
Retreatants are normally accommodated in Retreat House - Samten Ling. Kopan Monastery has been blessed by many high lamas who did retreat here. Although it is not completely quiet, there is an atmosphere of stillness and peace that makes it very suitable for practice.
The Retreat House has apartment style accommodation, with a small kitchenette, a meditation room and a living room, at a cost of 26 US$ (including food) per day. For longer retreats than one month, a discount is available. The rooms are large enough for prostrations.
GENERAL INFORMATION
You are requested to follow the general guidelines during your stay at Kopan.
Kopan's private retreat facilities include:
· Peaceful retreat rooms
· Three vegetarian meals per day, safe drinking water
· Excellent library
· Meditation cushions, water bowls and other retreat supplies available
· Friendly staff who will respect your retreat silence.
· Spiritual and emotional support if needed.
· Setting up boundaries and blessing the retreat room by experienced monks
· Fire puja facilities and help with preparation of the retreat
Please note: Kopan does not offer self-catering facilities! Tea making facilities are provided.
APPLYING FOR RETREAT
Complete the Private Retreat Application here
The Monastery reserves the rights to ask students who do not follow the rules or prove in other ways to be disturbing to leave the monastery.