Stay in a Buddhist Monastery with Monks

United States

5

I spent one unforgettable week at the Center Temple for my first Worldpackers experience, and it was truly life-changing. I was immersed in the beauty of the Center lifestyle—visiting sacred temples, participating in ceremonies, and meditating alongside the monks. Everyone I met was incredibly kind and welcoming, making me feel right at home from the start. One of the most meaningful parts of my stay was teaching English to the monks and joining their Sunday school during the New Year celebration. It was a true honor to share and learn in such a rich cultural exchange.

4 months ago

Germany

5

I stayed at Bhante Wasa's temple for 2 nights. My stay was so lovely. I had amazing food both at home and at ceremonies that I've joined thanks to my hosts. I didn't know what we would be doing most of the time, so things felt spontaneous and I think knowing a liittle bit about the schedule would help. But I really enjoyed everything I did in the end. 🙏 I got to meditate with the other temple's monk as well. And the highlight of my stay was definitely the Sunday school! It was one of the most rewarding experiences of my life 🤍 I am so grateful for this opportunity. 100% recommended.

4 months ago

Gnanawasa Thero replied

Thanks a lot for the lovely words. We will definitely meet one day. We are also opening a meditation center in Berlin soon.

France

5

The five days I spent at the temple were amazing. I didn't stay only at Sambuddaloka Temple—I also joined another temple several times, where I had the opportunity to practice meditation and attend ceremonies. It was a truly enriching experience, and if I return to Sri Lanka, I would be delighted to spend a few more days with them!

6 months ago

Ireland

5

Staying with the monks in the Center temple has been my favourite travel experience yet! Their openness, generosity and hospitality is unmatched! I have never felt so taken care of in my life. They truly immersed us in the culture by taking us out to local events, ceremonies, home towns and providing the yummiest food I've ever had whilst traveling. The lessons I learnt on the Center way of life and philosophy will stay with me forever. Giving back our time to the local Sunday school and teaching the younger monks English made me feel like I was doing something worth doing. Loved it

6 months ago

Ukraine

5

It was my first volunteering experience, and I loved it so much! 100% recommend it! I had a chance to visit so many special ceremonies, celebrations, and festivals. I also learned a lot about Buddhism and meditation from monks. Teaching in schools was amazing, kids and teachers were extremely friendly and nice! The templestay and the food were great! I'm so happy I became a part of this project!

6 months ago

Germany

5

The monks took really good care of me. I got sick during my time here but they helped me so much, made me some fresh herbal tea and helped me to see a doctor. They're happy people, and it's so easy to be with them. Bhante Wassa answers you everything you want to know. The food is amazing and you have a nice place to stay at. If you think about it, I can just recommend to go for it !!

6 months ago

United Kingdom

5

A wonderful experience which allowed us to ask questions, learn about, observe and participate in the Center culture. I received a very warm welcome from the start which was continued throughout and I was given a very comfortable room for my stay. Expect to eat an incredible amount of authentic local Sri Lankan food - truly delicious! The Sunday school is not to be missed as well as the local school in the village close to the temple. I hope to return here one day. I wish the team all the best and have no doubt this programme will continue to grow and succeed for both hosts and volunteers.

6 months ago

Czech Republic

5

Our stay at the temple was exciting. There were a lot of activities that we could participace in but we didnt have to. Like teaching english at school for underpriviliged children, teaching english at monks school, exploring gardens full of fruits and vegetables, playing badminton with little monks, meditating. Our stay was short but it was an experience for life. Jiří &Kateřina

7 months ago

Czech Republic

5

The stay in the temple was interesting and enriching. During our three day stay, we taught English in local school and in the monk school, explored the surrounding temples, fields and gardens. We could also participate in meditations and chants. The food and accommodation were exquisite. I can only recccomend this experience, it's a great way to start your Srí Lanka journey.

7 months ago

Belgium

5

I loved my experience at the temple. I felt at home, the monks really did take care of me. It's a good way to discover buddhism and the sri Lankan culture and food. You Will Never be hungry if you stay at the temple . I stayed at the temple 5 days and I have a chance to go help in the village school several times, talking English with the children and creating a website for the school. I was also able to discover nature, visit temples, participate in ceremonies and learn meditation. I recommend this experience for people who are interested in the Center culture and want a quiet place

7 months ago

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