what is retreat?

Retreat is a time where we stop our normal daily activities so as to emphasise a particular meditation practice. They can vary in length from a day or two, to a few weeks or longer. Retreat enables us to gain deeper experience of what we are meditating on, which will naturally improve our ability to keep a positive mind and good heart all the time.

By training in meditation we create an inner space and clarity that enable us to control our mind, regardless of outer circumstances.”
— Geshe Kelsang Gyatso Rinpoche

silent retreats

We offer a variety of retreats at Kailash, including silent retreats. Observing silence is optional but has many benefits: 

Stillness

Enjoy a calm and quiet mind where you can reinforce or strengthen your practice

Focus

Experience a clearer, more lucid mind and develop powerful concentration

Let Go

Drop limiting beliefs, regrets and worries and tap into your true potential

Meditation retreat allows you to enjoy the stillness and peace that meditation and silence brings. Create the space to explore your mind, develop insights and let go of negative habits. Focused periods of time emphasising spiritual development will provide a solid foundation for a lifetime of practice. You will have the space to deepen your understanding and meditation experience and return to your daily life more grounded, connected and wise.

Find your perfect retreat

Introductory retreats

These retreats are suitable for everyone and are designed to provide an introduction to retreat in the Kadampa Buddhist tradition. From complete beginners to those with some meditation experience, these guided retreats explore meditation essentials and establish the foundation of Kadampa Buddhist practice.

Weekend Away retreats

These retreats are an opportunity to get away from it all and enjoy a relaxing weekend of guided meditations and teachings on a particular meditation topic. Deepen your experience of meditation and return home feeling positive, refreshed and inspired.

In-Depth retreats

These retreats focus on gaining deeper experience of Kadampa topics such as meditating on the path to enlightenment and accumulating positive mental energy. Most of these retreats include optional silence so we can fully immerse ourself in the practices and take the meaning deep into our heart.

Solitary retreats

We provide perfect conditions for those interested in deepening their meditation practice through self-guided personal retreat. By withdrawing from distractions and emphasising spiritual practice you will experience profound inner peace. Kailash offers a tranquil and unique environment for your journey within.

Retreat FAQs 

Why attend a retreat?

In retreat we take the time to step away from the busyness and distractions of daily life, creating the space in which we can take the teachings to heart and cultivate a deep experience of inner peace and further our spiritual practice. 

If I'm a complete beginner, can I attend a retreat?

We offer a variety of retreats to suit everyone. If you are new to meditation or have never done retreat in the Kadampa Buddhist tradition, we recommend you begin your journey with an Introductory Retreat >>

Am I required to attend the full retreat?

Many of the retreats we offer are flexible so you can drop in to sessions when it suits you. Please see the course description for specific retreats to find out more. 

What do I need to bring with me?

You may find it useful to bring comfortable clothes, indoor shoes/slippers, toiletries, notepad and pen, books relevant to the course or retreat, swiss francs (or they accept cards in most shops/public transport), water bottle, plug adapter. For longer retreats we will contact you with a more extensive checklist of things to bring.

Is the Centre easy to get to?

Despite its remote location, Kailash IRC is very easy to get to by public transport, as well as driving. Please visit the Directions >> page for further details.

Do I need to book in advance?

Yes please book in advance for meditation retreats and courses so we can organise the accommodation and meals. You can book online or give us a call.

Do you cater for special diets?

All the meals we provide are vegetarian and use fresh and organic local produce where possible. We offer vegan and wheat/gluten-free options. Please specify your dietary requirements when you book so we can best accommodate you.

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