Centre de Méditation Kadampa France

Welcome to Kadampa Meditation Center France — An Award-Winning Sanctuary of Peace and Purpose

Set amidst the peaceful countryside of the Sarthe region in northwest France, Kadampa Meditation Center France is a unique retreat space where travelers can reconnect with themselves, others, and the deeper values of compassion, inner peace, and service.

Last year, we were honored to receive one of the Worldpackers Host Award - a reflection of the spirit and dedication that make this place so special. As we continue to grow, we’re thrilled to expand our renovation and maintenance projects, and to prepare for the construction of a beautiful new Buddhist temple for World Peace, that blends sacred architecture with environmental sustainability.

This is an exciting moment to get involved. We're inviting volunteers from around the world to help restore and care for this Buddhist meditation center, which serves as a space for peace and spiritual transformation. Our multicultural volunteer team reflects a shared commitment to harmony, mindfulness, and making a positive difference in the world.

Why Volunteer With Us?

Volunteering here means contributing to a meaningful projectbased on public service, while immersing yourself in the teachings of Buddhism and the rhythms of a modern community life. Whether you support our restaurant, help with cleaning, assist in the gardens, paint walls, repair fixtures, or take part in light construction — your time and energy help sustain a place of calm and purpose, promoting compassionate interactions and wisdom.

In return, you’ll receive shared accommodation, delicious vegetarian meals, and the opportunity to connect with like-minded people on a shared journey of growth and discovery. Our supportive, inclusive environment allows everyone to feel welcomed, valued, and inspired.

Our Projects Are Expanding

Right now, we’re especially seeking help with:
* Refurbishing and enhancing common areas
* Light building repairs and general maintenance
* Gardening and landscaping
* Practical work such as painting and plastering
* Marketing / Social medias
* Cooking/Potwashing/Dishwashing
* Housekeeping/Cleaning/Preparing rooms

Whether you bring specific skills or simply enthusiasm and a willingness to help, we’d love to have you on board!

Join us in shaping a peaceful and uplifting space that continues to serve people from all walks of life and for future generations. Volunteering here is more than just travel - it’s purposeful connection, service, and the proof that we can all live together in peace and harmony.

We look forward to welcoming you to our community!

About Our Community ​We are a small, dedicated community of monks, nuns, and lay practitioners who live and volunteer here long- or short-term. A network of local students also regularly support our spiritual and daily activities. Logistics and Daily Life Volunteer arrivals: any days when the center is open to the public (most of the year) Pick-ups available at Ecommoy train station - between le Mans and Tours - and before 7pm (with 2 days' notice) Volunteer schedule: Approximately 25 hours per week (5 hours per day, flexible times). Schedules vary based on season, events and domain of help You'll need to be physically and emotionally available, as the routine can be active (team work, public service, etc) Internet-dependent remote work is hard to combine with volunteering here French is the main language spoken on site, making this a great opportunity for language immersion. Non-French speakers can join guided meditations in English twice per week and international event (few times a year). Helping with various tasks, such as catering, housekeeping, landscaping, etc volunteers usually stay for several weeks and can choose whether or not they want to mix with the community and attend meditation classes. Everyone can easily feel at home, while respecting the rules of the community to preserve the harmony of the institution. The daily routine can be more or less demanding for participants, depending on the time of year. If you choose to stay on site, you'll need to get involved and actively participate in various tasks throughout the day, on the basis of 25 hours a week (5 hours spread over the day). You'll need to be available (if you have to work online while volunteering, this can be difficult to reconcile) and in good physical and emotional shape to be able to actively help out on a daily basis in the area(s) that require it. You will be accommodated in dormitories (women’s or men’s), designed to sleep 6 to 10 people with bunk beds. We provide sheets, pillows and duvets, 3 vegetarian meals/day and free laundry. French speakers are free to attend noon meditations and evening classes (in Fr), and non-French speakers can attend meditations in English but only twice a week. Most of the time you'll be surrounded by French speakers, so that's the perfect fit for those wanting to improve their French. Important Guidelines We strive to create a respectful and harmonious environment that benefits all our visitors. To preserve the harmony of the center, we kindly ask all volunteers to: Respect ​general quiet​ness (no parties, instrument playing, etc) Abstain from alcohol and drugs Dress modestly and behave respectfully Follow basic community rules inspired by Buddhist ethics Travel With Purpose Whether you're a seasoned meditator or simply seeking a more meaningful travel experience, we welcome you with open arms. Join a team of passionate volunteers, contribute to a transformative space, and experience the power of living, working, and growing together!