The pilgrimage will consist of an enlightening retreat at the Jethavanarama Buddhist Monastery to deepen your practice under the guidance of over 150 resident monastics. You’ll have the opportunity to explore the lives of these incredible monks and Anagārikās and get a glimpse of the inner peace they enjoy through a spiritual journey of self-discovery.

Food (breakfast, lunch and a light supper for those who require it) and accommodation will be provided free of charge during the retreat at the Monastery. The Monastery conducts its retreat programmes supported by generous unsolicited donations from individuals just like yourselves who benefit from them and wish to pay it forward. Your generous donation to the monastery will be greatly appreciated to support the Monastery in continuing to provide retreats and other services to the community.

The second part of the pilgrimage will consist of a tour around Sri Lanka, exploring sacred Buddhist sites and the rich heritage they represent. This will be an incredible opportunity to discover the rich tapestry of Buddhist history and culture and how they were weaved over many centuries. Take a trip back in time as you walk in the footsteps of the Great Arahants (Enlightened Beings) of the Buddha’s time who once graced these sacred grounds. Experience and contrast the peace and tranquillity which prevailed many hundreds of years ago with the chaos of the 21 century. The tour will incur costs to cover transportation, accommodation, food, etc. Full details of costing will be provided later on.

You can join for the first part, second part, or the full pilgrimage. The dates are as follows:
Arrival into Sri Lanka: 25/12/24
First part – Retreat: 26/12/24 8.00 am (SL time) – 4/1/25 5.00 pm (SL time)
Second part – Tour:       5/1/25 – 16/1/25
Departure from Sri Lanka – 17/1/25

Participants will be required to organise and pay for the cost of their own airfare. Please book your air ticket to arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport, Katunayake, Sri Lanka 25th December, or 4th January if you are joining the second part only. Transport from the airport to the monastery or tour location can be organised if advanced notice is given and at a cost.

Families with children (aged 7 – 18 years) are welcome. Any children under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a responsible adult. We recommend you arrange your own travel insurance.

Participants need to apply for a visa in terms of an Electronic Travel Authority before travel via this link: https://www.eta.gov.lk/slvisa/

Limited spots available. Registrations will only be confirmed if you provide us with your airfare to Sri Lanka. This is to avoid cancellations, because there may be costs to us if cancellations are made and we have already made bookings.

Whilst this event is offered free of charge, donations to Metta Centre will help us cover costs and continue to offer free events and services to the public. Suggested donation for this event starts at $10 for talks, $50 per day for retreats minimum, and $50 for bigger events.

If you have any inquiries, please contact:
Phone: 0425173612
Email: info@ministryofnirvana.org.au