ACCOMMODATION

We welcome you to enjoy a retreat in a simple and monastic setting which has supported our practice for generations. Since 1975, the Thai Monastery has generously offered a portion of its buildings and grounds for our retreat. The accommodation is basic dormitory style though we can provide double occupancy rooms for those with special needs. All bathrooms are shared. The retreat will provide a bed or mattress and a mosquito net but we depend on yogis to bring their own blankets or sleeping bag.

The vegetarian meals served on the retreat are prepared by local Indian cooks, some of whom have been with us since the retreats started. Returning yogis have reported that they come to sit the retreat for the food and chai alone! Breakfast is generally a wheat porridge with stewed apples, fruit and tea. At lunchtime, our main meal is served consisting of rice, dal (lentils), two vegetarian curries, salad and chapatis (simple bread). In the evening we offer a light fare- tea with fruit- capping off the day with a cup of hot lemon ginger before bed. Unfortunately, due to the simplicity of our kitchen and the large number of yogis, we can not accommodate special diets and there are no facilities to prepare your own food. Drinking water is provided.

January weather in Bodhgaya is usually comfortable but difficult to predict. At night, the temperatures can drop as low as 10°C though the afternoon sun in the garden can often feel hot on warmer days. On rare occasions we have seen rain and fog so be prepared with warm clothes and a hat. You may also wish to bring a torch (flashlight), insect repellent and a shawl for meditation. Although the monastery is not far from the centre of town, there will be no time for shopping during the retreat so please arrive prepared.