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MAHAMEVNAWA • ELLA, SRI LANKA
Meditate with a Monk
A calm, guided experience in the hills of Ella—simple teachings, gentle breathing, loving-kindness, and quiet space to settle the mind.
TODAY'S RHYTHM
Four sessions daily.
The program offers four visitor meditation sessions daily (except full moon day). Choose the time that fits your journey—early silence, a guided morning, or an extended afternoon with tea and dhamma talk.
05:45–07:30 • Silent meditation: breathing and walking
Sitting meditation that focuses on the breath, and walking meditation with slow, mindful steps to calm the mind and bring awareness to the body. These are core practices in the Theravada Buddhist tradition. A monk is on hand to guide you.
09:00–10:45 • Guided tour and meditation
A guided tour of the monastery, followed by guided meditation (including loving-kindness and breathing practice) and time for questions.
15:30–18:00 • Tour, viewpoint and introduction
A guided tour including the viewpoint, guided meditation (loving-kindness and breathing), time for questions, and a short introduction to Buddhism. The session ends with tea and informal conversation.
20:00–21:00 • Silent meditation
A quiet hour of silent meditation to close the day.
Chanting is performed daily at 6:00pm and visitors may observe.
A GENTLE FIRST STEP
Guided, not pushed.
You don't need experience. Come as you are—curious, tired, or simply quiet. A monk can guide meditation on request, and questions are welcome at the right time.
A place built for stillness.
Set among forested slopes and open views, the monastery offers a calm environment to reflect—walking paths, viewpoints, and spaces designed for respectful visitors.
New to Meditate with a Monk?
Start with the morning guided session, or arrive in the afternoon for a longer visit that includes a viewpoint walk and tea afterwards.
Private discussion with a monk can be requested 09:00–11:00 and 13:00–20:00.
RETREATS
A longer retreat.
For those who wish to go deeper, retreats are offered in 3, 5, and 10-day formats. Extended time for meditation, personal guidance, and the stillness needed to truly settle the mind.
RETREATS
Ready for a deeper experience?
3, 5, and 10-day retreats offer extended time for meditation, personal guidance, and the stillness needed to truly settle the mind.
EXPLORE
Where would you like to begin?
Choose a path—daily sessions, the monastery setting, the Great Pagoda, or practical planning for your visit.