staying @ dhammasara : rains retreat 2026 for lay guest

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Vassa (Rains Retreat) : 29 Jul – 26 Oct 2026

Vassa is a beautiful and quiet time of practice, with minimal interaction. Day visitors are welcomed to offer Dana. During the lunch ceremony at 10:30am, there will be a short group meditation session.

Lay Guest places during the Rains Retreat are limited and offered to support a quiet and harmonious practice environment. Applicants are kindly asked to ensure they meet the following conditions before expressing interest:

  • Previous stay at Dhammasara Monastery, or personal acquaintance with the monastery community
  • A practising Buddhist; local applicants are preferably members of the Buddhist Society of Western Australia (BSWA)
  • Ability to practise meditation independently, as there is no formal teaching programme
  • Comfort with solitude, noble silence, and minimal interaction. Good physical and mental health, with the ability to care for one’s own wellbeing
  • Willingness to participate in assigned daily duties (e.g. food preparation, cleaning, sweeping)
  • Willingness to observe the Eight Precepts and respect all monastery guidelines
  • To support your wellbeing and ensure appropriate care during your stay, we kindly ask that you disclose any relevant medical or mental health conditions as part of your application.
  • For overseas guests: a valid Australian visa and adequate medical insurance for the duration of the stay
  • Sufficient personal funds to meet individual needs, including medication and onward travel

As places are limited and consideration is given to many applicants, we kindly ask that expressions of interest be submitted only by experienced meditators who are reasonably certain they are able to attend.

Other Information

  • Check-in time: Check-in is from 10.00 am. If you are unable to arrive during opening hours, please make prior arrangements with the Guest Nun to check in the following morning by 10.00 am.

  • Weather and clothing: During the Vassa period, the climate is generally cool, wet, and at times cold. Guests are advised to bring warm clothing, rainwear, and suitable footwear for walking in the forest environment. Please refer to a weather website for typical winter and spring temperatures.

  • Dhamma talks and classes: Attendance at Dhamma talks and Sutta classes at Bodhinyana Monastery is prioritised for monastics. Lay guests at Dhammasara may choose to watch the live-stream on site. If you wish to attend these talks in person, we recommend applying to stay at Jhana Grove Retreat Centre or Bodhinyana Monastery.

  • Internet access: Internet access is not available for guests at the monastery. Please ensure you have your own mobile data plan if required. Telstra generally provides reliable coverage in the area; other providers may have little or no reception.

Please read and understand the information page for visitors.

Applications are NOT processed on a first-come, first-served basis.
You will receive confirmation from the monastery once your application has been reviewed and approved.
This process may take some time, and we sincerely appreciate your patience.