Annual Meditation Retreats
Saraniya Dhamma Meditation Centre holds intensive meditation retreats several times throughout the year.
Our retreats provide an opportunity to step away from the demands of everyday life and dedicate time to meditation, reflection and the study of the Dhamma.
Places are limited, so advance application is required.
Our retreats provide an opportunity to step away from the demands of everyday life and dedicate time to meditation, reflection and the study of the Dhamma.
Places are limited, so advance application is required.
Upcoming Meditation Retreats
| Start Date | End Date | Event |
|---|---|---|
| 03 April 2026 | 12 April 2026 | Easter Intensive Meditation Retreat |
| 22 August 2026 | 31 August 2026 | Summer (Waso) Intensive Meditation Retreat |
| 25 December 2026 | 3rdst January 2027 | December Intensive Meditation Retreat |
How to Apply
Complete your application online using the form below, or download the PDF or Word version if you prefer to print or submit the application electronically.
Complete your application online using the form below, or download the PDF or Word version if you prefer to print or submit the application electronically.
[ Online Application Form ]
[Download PDF]
[Download Word document] — useful for completing electronically
Once completed, please return the form to us by email. Your place will only be confirmed after your application has been reviewed.
As accommodation is limited, we recommend applying as early as possible.
If you have any questions before applying, please contact us:
Saraniya Dhamma Meditation Centre
420 Lower Broughton Road
Salford, Manchester
M7 2GD
Email:
admin@saraniya.com
Telephone: 0161 706 3313
Information on Retreats
What is a retreat?
A retreat is a time reflection, prayer, or meditation. Leave behind the concerns and complexities of our modern world to focus on what’s truly important, understanding yourself. Focusing your mind on singular thoughts to be fully present in the moment.
Do you need to be a Buddhist?
We welcome all faiths on our retreats. Meditation is not just for Buddhists it’s a way to train your mind to promote good mental health. An induction will be given by the Resident Monk on meditation / retreat program on the day you arrive. Previous experience is not necessary to attend this can be an opportunity to learn or if you are an experienced practitioner, you may further develop your meditation.
What happens on a retreat?
Yogis(retreatants) will follow a set time table each day. There will be periods of meditation both walking and sitting. Retreatants are asked to maintain ‘noble silence’ each day though there will be opportunity to reflect about yourself but also discuss what you have felt and experienced during session with the Sayadaw. To create a peaceful atmosphere free from distractions and interruption we advise retreatants to follow a monastic code of conduct based on the Eight Precepts.
- Harmlessness:
not intentionally taking the life of any living creature.
- Trustworthiness:
not taking anything that is not given.
- Chastity
: refraining from any sexual activity.
- Right
Speech: avoiding false, abusive or malicious speech or Noble Silence
during retreats
- Sobriety
: not taking any intoxicating drinks or drugs.
- Renunciation
: not eating after mid-day.
- Restraint
: not wearing make-up, jewellery or immodest clothing; not playing radios,
music tapes or musical instruments.
- Alertness: to refrain from overindulgence in sleep.
Accommodation
Accommodation is provided for free of charge at Saraniya.
Yogis will be living communally in shared single-sex rooms. Sheets, douvets
pillows are also provided for. If you wish, you are also wellcome to bring your
own.
Living communally means caring for each other. Please help with simple chores around the centre when required. Our retreats are known for being friendly and harmonious; we ask retreatants to cooperate with each other and to refrain from harsh speech or anti-social behaviour.
Food
Food is provided for and served by Saraniya. The dining area is in the conservatory. The meals will not be vegetarian. If you do require a vageterian or other special diatery requirements please contact us in advance. Arrangements can be made or it is also possible to bring your own food. Breakfast starts at 6am and lunch is at 11am. Please be aware there there will be no solid food served after midday the only exception would be for medical reasons. After meals please help clear away plates and put away table and chairs when possible.
Your welfare on retreat
For welfare and safety reasons please let us know if you have any disabilities or serious health problems such as diabetes or epilepsy, or any clinical mental health problems – particularly if you are on medication. No pets are allowed on the retreat. The retreat centre is a non-smoking venue.
There is no charge for attending the retreat or for food
or accommodation. But we are a non profit charity so any voluntary donations to
the meditation centre are most welcome.