About us

Rooted in Tradition, Dedicated to Liberation

Sathipattana Retreat Center, or Sathipattanagaraya, is a serene meditation sanctuary located high in the foothills of Kukulagala in the village of Dimbulkumbura. Our peaceful, natural environment, supported by cool mountain air and profound tranquility, provides the perfect setting for inner reflection and spiritual practice.

Founded with the specific intention of offering a dedicated place for monks to deepen their mindfulness practice, the center is firmly rooted in the Theravāda Buddhist tradition. Our teachings and practices focus on the direct path to liberation—Nibbāna—through dedicated meditation, insightful Dhamma discussion, and quiet contemplation.

Life at the center is structured to support this goal, with daily group meditation sessions forming the core of our schedule. Ample time is also provided for individual practice, quiet reflection, and personal or group discussions on the Dhamma.

We welcome all who are sincerely interested in attaining Nibbāna through the dedicated practice of meditation. The center can accommodate 8 to 10 visitors in our main facilities, with additional lodging options available nearby for larger groups or retreats.

Welcome to Sathipattana Retreat Center

Welcome to Sathipattana Retreat Center, known as "Sathipattanagaraya" a sanctuary of peace nestled in the quiet foothills of Kukulagala. We are a refuge dedicated to the practice of the Buddha's teachings, offering a tranquil space for those committed to cultivating mindfulness, wisdom, and inner freedom.

Our primary mission is to support monks on their journey towards the ultimate bliss of Nibbāna. However, we warmly welcome sincere lay devotees to join our community for retreats and spiritual practice as circumstances permit.

Surrounded by the cool mountain air and serene natural beauty of Dimbulkumbura, our center provides the perfect environment for deep meditation, contemplation, and a disciplined spiritual life.

Discover a Space for True Practice

Whether you are a monk seeking to deepen your commitment to the Dhamma or a lay practitioner approaching with a humble and respectful heart, Sathipattana offers a conducive setting for profound spiritual growth.

Daily Meditation: Cultivating Inner Peace, Together

At Sathipattana Retreat Center, nestled in the serene Kukulagala foothills of Sri Lanka, the heart of our practice and the essence of our daily rhythm is Daily Meditation. We understand that cultivating a calm, focused mind is the cornerstone of spiritual growth and well-being. Therefore, we provide structured, guided sessions designed to help you center your mind, deepen your awareness, and truly immerse yourself in the present moment.

Dhamma Discussions: Unveiling the Buddha's Profound Wisdom

At Sathipattana Retreat Center, situated amidst the serene foothills of Kukulagala in beautiful Sri Lanka, our commitment to the direct path of liberation extends beyond meditation practice. A crucial and enriching aspect of our spiritual program is our Dhamma Discussions, designed to help you deepen your understanding of the Buddha's profound and liberating teachings.

At Sathipattana Retreat Center, nestled amidst the profound tranquility of the Kukulagala foothills in Sri Lanka, we offer a unique and invaluable opportunity for serious practitioners to truly accelerate their spiritual journey: Extended Retreats. These immersive periods are meticulously designed for those who wish to delve into intensive, silent practice, dedicating themselves wholeheartedly to the direct path of liberation.

Extended Retreats: Deepening Practice Through Immersive Silence

Natural Serenity: Practice Amidst the Calming Presence of Nature

At Sathipattana Retreat Center, nestled high in the tranquil foothills of Kukulagala, within the idyllic village of Dimbulkumbura, Sri Lanka, our unique location is not merely a backdrop—it is an integral part of the transformative experience we offer. Here, Natural Serenity is not just a feature; it's a living, breathing component of your spiritual journey, enveloping you in the calming presence of nature.

Retreats & Events

Sathipattana Retreat Center offers a structured schedule of events and retreats throughout the year, designed to support the deepening of monastic practice and the cultivation of wisdom for all sincere practitioners.

Deepen Your Practice, Awaken Your Mind

Ongoing Activities

• Daily Meditation Sessions: Held in the morning and evening, these sessions are the cornerstone of our practice.

• Dhamma Discussions: Engage in meaningful conversations led by our resident monks to explore the profound teachings of the Buddha.

Upcoming Events & Retreats

We host a variety of special programs to guide you on your spiritual journey.

• Extended Meditation Retreats: Immerse yourself in silent, intensive practice for several days or weeks.

• Special Programmes: Join workshops and teachings focused on mindfulness, core Buddhist principles, and incorporating these practices into daily life.

Details of all upcoming events, retreats, and longer programmes will be posted on our center's notice board and announced through our online channels. Advance registration is highly recommended to secure your space.

Deepen Your Understanding:

Take part in insightful Dhamma discussions.

Explore the Path

At Sathipattana Retreat Center, the emphasis is on disciplined practice rooted in the monastic tradition. We invite you to experience a life of mindfulness and simplicity.

Engage in Mindful Living

Activities for Devotees

Sincere lay practitioners may have the opportunity to engage in the following activities, based on availability and appropriateness:

Join Guided Meditation:

Join short or long-term meditation retreats.

Participate in daily sessions open to all levels.

Use our forest paths and peaceful surroundings for walking meditation.

Attend Retreats:

Mindful Walking:

Silent Reflection:

Spend quiet time in contemplation amidst nature.

Mindful Living:

Experience the rhythm and routines of monastic life.

Study the Suttas:

Learn about the Satipatthana Sutta and its practical application.

Long-Term Stays:

Explore opportunities for extended practice or lay residency (subject to availability and approval).

Support Our Mission

Make a Donation:

Contribute to our daily operations, maintenance, and improvements.

You can support the vital work of Sathipattana Retreat Center in many meaningful ways. Every act of generosity, no matter the size, strengthens the spirit of the Dhamma and helps make this transformative path accessible to more people.

Your Generosity Cultivates the Dhamma

Support our meal programs, accommodation for monks, or specific meditation retreats.

Sponsor a Cause:

Offer your time and expertise to assist with maintenance, administration, or other center projects.

Volunteer Your Skills:

Support Dhamma Education:

Contribute towards the publication and distribution of Dhamma materials and recorded teachings.

Spread the Word:

Share awareness of our center with friends, family, and communities who may benefit from our offerings.

Current Projects

We are continuously working to improve and expand the center’s facilities to better serve our community. Your support plays a vital role in bringing these important projects to life.

Accommodation Expansion:

Building additional meditation huts (Kuti) to provide living spaces for more resident monks.

Infrastructure Upgrades:

Improving and streamlining the electrical wiring system and enhancing lighting along our walkway paths.

Building a Foundation for the Future

Our Key Initiatives:

Sustainable Landscaping:

Planting trees and creating sustainable, beautiful green spaces for reflection.

Pathway Construction:

Developing new walking meditation pathways and improving residential areas.

Monastic Support:

Providing ongoing support for the training and education of our resident monks.

Digital Dhamma Archive:

Creating a digital library of recorded teachings to share the wisdom of the Dhamma more widely.

Connect with Sathipattana Retreat

We welcome you to get in touch with us to plan your visit, inquire about retreats, or learn more about our center. Please contact us in advance to ensure we can accommodate you.

Inquiries

+9471 575 2025

Support

contact@sathipattanaretreat.com

Plan Your Visit

Kunain Estate Road | Dimbulkumbura | Rikillagaskada | Sri Lanka

"We look forward to welcoming you to the path of mindfulness"

Harmony

Nurturing wellness through mindful practices and retreats.

Tranquility