Retreat

at Arathi Spiritual Center – Morawaka, Sri Lanka

At Arathi Spiritual Center (ASC), nestled in the forested hills of Morawaka, we offer immersive retreat experiences rooted in the ancient Sri Lankan Forest Meditation Tradition. Whether you’re beginning your journey or seeking deeper insight, our retreats provide space to pause, breathe, and reconnect with your inner truth.

Guided by monks and experienced lay teachers from Sri Lanka and around the world, ASC is a sanctuary for silence, wisdom, and compassionate action.

Retreat Highlights

Sitting & Walking Meditation
Working Meditation on our organic farm
Karuṇā Practice – Loving-kindness in action at our animal sanctuary (Abhayabhoomi)
Daily Dhamma Talks and guided reflections
Spiritual Dialogue & Teacher Q&A
Nature Trails, Mindful Meals, and Community Silence

Retreats range from 3-day weekend immersions to 7-day in-depth journeys, culminating in the DPP37, a complete path through the 37 Factors of Enlightenment.

Dedicated Practitioners Program (DPP)

DPP 3 – Awakening Through the First Three Factors

Explore Mindfulness, Investigation, and Energy over three focused days.

Perfect for beginners or those wishing to renew their path.

DPP 7 – Deepening Practice

A seven-day retreat exploring the Seven Factors of Enlightenment, including Joy, Tranquility, Concentration, and Equanimity.

Balanced guidance through group meditation, reflections, and nature-based practices.

DPP 37 – The Complete Path

A transformative journey through:

The Four Foundations of Mindfulness
The Four Right Efforts
The Four Bases of Spiritual Power
The Five Faculties and Five Strengths
The Seven Factors of Enlightenment
The Noble Eightfold Path

Advanced retreat – open to experienced practitioners with prior Dhamma background.

Preparing for Your Retreat

Before joining a retreat at ASC, please take a moment to understand the environment we cultivate. These guidelines are not rules—they are part of the experience itself.

1. A Shared Journey

You will practice within a supportive community. While moments of guidance may be personal, the retreat unfolds in silent togetherness—with shared meals, meditation, and mindful service.

2. A Gentle Daily Rhythm

Each day includes about 8 hours of structured spiritual activity:

Meditation
Dhamma teachings
Walking and working practice
Personal time for reflection and rest

3. Stay the Whole Way

Retreats are complete experiences. We kindly request that all participants arrive on time and stay until the final session. Partial attendance disrupts the collective energy.

4. Noble Silence

Silence is the ground for insight. We observe Noble Silence throughout the retreat. Speaking is limited to teacher guidance or essential communication.

5. Daily Guidance

Our teachers offer morning instructions, evening reflections, and Dhamma talks. You’ll also have time for Q&A and personal reflection to deepen your journey.

6. Digital-Free Space

Please turn in phones and devices upon arrival. Lockers are provided, but we encourage you to leave electronics at home to fully embrace the moment.

7. Ethical Living

All retreatants are asked to observe the Five Ethical Precepts, promoting harmony, respect, and inner discipline. These will be shared upon registration.

8. Simple, Private Lodging

Most rooms are private, allowing space for inward reflection. Shared rooms can be arranged upon special request and availability.

9. Wholesome Meals

Enjoy nourishing vegetarian meals twice daily, plus a light evening offering. We do our best to accommodate allergies but cannot cater to all preferences. Meals are taken in silence in our dining area.

10. Mindful Appearance

Please dress simply and modestly. Avoid strong scents, makeup, jewelry, or tight clothing. This helps preserve a calm, monastic atmosphere for everyone.

Retreat Calendar

Our retreat season runs August to February. During May–June, our teachers observe personal silent retreat.
All retreats are in-person only—we are not offering online options at this time.