Sri Pada Forest Hermitage board

03 Day Meditation Programme At Sri Pada Forest Hermitage

The Journey began in Rathnapura, the city, which is well known for the gems, and followed the route towards the Sri Pada Forest Reserve. Continuing along the route, travelers pass through picturesque villages, rubber plantations, paddy fields, tea estates and gem mining areas that reflect the unique landscape and livelihood of the Rathnapura district.

As the road gradually turns towards the Sri Pada Forest Reserve, the scenery changes into dense
tropical rain forest with towering trees, rocky streams, waterfalls and mist covered hills. The final approach to the Sri Pada Forest Hermitage follows a narrow forest road surrounded by untouched wilderness, emphasizing the beauty of the destination.

Located in a secluded corner of the Sri Pada Forest Reserve, surrounded by crystal-clear streams, cool mountain air, and the soothing sound of flowing water, this serene sanctuary is free from the distractions of modern life, making it an ideal setting for meditation and monastic living.

What to look forward to?

  • Centred emotional equilibrium
  • Clearer perspectives on life, career, and life goals
  • A revitalised mind and positive mindset
  • Renewed physical and mental well-being
  • Pacified emotions
  • Inspiration for creativity
  • Deeper reflections and self-awareness
  • Destressed self
air plane at air port
Meditate

What’s included in the programme?

  • Ancient wisdom to improve focus and concentration
  • Guided physical and breathing exercises
  • Yoga and Tai Chi practices
  • Counselling support
  • Various meditation practices
  • Forest immersion
  • Nature therapy, water therapy, and chanting therapy
  • Exploration of Eastern spiritual teachings that promote inner healing
Nature
Worshipping

Who will lead the programme?

  • Trained professionals
  • Yoga masters
Monk
Monk

What’s in a typical day?

  • Early Morning Call – 4.00 AM
  • Ritualistic Early Morning Buddhist Offerings (Buddha Pooja) – 4.45 AM – 5.30 AM
  • Morning Yoga (Soorya Namaskar) – 5.30 AM – 6.30 AM
  • Therapeutic Cleaning Activity – 6.30 AM – 7.30 AM
  • Breakfast – 7.30 AM – 8.30 AM
  • Walking or “Sakman” Meditation – 8.30 AM – 9.15 AM
  • Philosophical Discourse – 9.15 AM – 10.15 AM
  • Mid-Morning Buddhist Offerings (Buddha Pooja) – 10.15 AM – 10.30 AM
  • Ablutions – 10.30 AM – 11.30 AM
  • Lunch – 11.30 AM – 12.30 PM
  • Walking or “Sakman” Meditation – 12.30 PM – 1.30 PM
  • Tai Chi – 1.30 PM – 2.30 PM
  • Yoga-Based “Priyanka” Meditation – 2.30 PM – 3.00 PM
  • Buddhist Chant or “Sutra’’ Discussion – 3.30 PM – 4.30 PM
  • Nature Walks Around the Hermitage Surrounding – 4.30 PM – 5.30 PM
  • Evening Buddhist Offerings (Buddha Pooja) – 5.30 PM – 6.30 PM
  • More Dharmic Discourse – 7.30 PM – 8.30 PM
  • Ablutions – 8.30 PM – 9.00 PM
  • Bedtime – 9.00 PM

Journey Highlights

  • Trip Length: 4 Days
  • You’ll be staying at the Sri Pada Forest Hermitage.
  • Being mindful, peaceful and relaxed throughout the programme.
  • Having a fresh cool bath in the nearby stream.
  • Visit the Sumana Saman Dewalaya in Rathnapura Town.
  • Engage in the meditation and Dharmic programmes in the morning and evening.

Insightful Tips

  • Since you’ll be staying in the middle of a forest for 04 days be mindful of your surroundings.
  • Bring comfortable clothes suits for meditation and the yoga retreats.
  • Pay attention to the Sri Lankan way of meditation practices which comes deep rooted from Theravada Buddhism.

FAQ

Q. Is this for me?

This programme is designed for anyone seeking deep spiritual connection and mental wellness in a forested setting,
surrounded by tranquillity and natural beauty. It combines Buddhist, Yoga, and other Eastern spiritual practices,
including breathwork, mindfulness, self-reflection, philosophical discourse, relaxation techniques, and destressing
activities that benefit beginners and experienced participants alike.

Q. Can it be tailor-made?

No, the itinerary cannot be tailor-made. It has been carefully designed by professionals, in collaboration with hermitage
monks, to ensure authenticity and a balanced approach to emotional and physical well-being.

Q. How long is the programme?

The programme is usually organised over 3 consecutive days, including a full-moon (poya) day.

Q. What will the tour cost cover?

The tour cost covers transport for the entire journey.

Q. How many participants can join at once?

The programme accepts a maximum of 10 participants per session. This ensures a focused, intimate environment and
allows the monks to provide proper guidance to each individual.