A Sanctuary for Peace
Visiting the Monastery
You Are Welcome
A Place of Refuge and Reflection
We welcome all who wish to experience the peace and tranquility of monastic life. Whether you are coming for a day visit, a personal retreat, or to offer support to the Sangha, we hope that your time here will be a source of inspiration and spiritual nourishment.
Respectful Conduct
Visitor Guidelines
To ensure a harmonious environment for all, we kindly request that visitors observe the following guidelines.
01
Modest Dress
Please dress modestly, with shoulders and knees covered. White clothing is traditional for lay visitors attending observances.
02
Noble Silence
Observe silence as much as possible, especially in meditation areas and around the kutis (monks’ dwellings).
03
Respectful Conduct
Please be respectful of the monks and other visitors. Refrain from loud conversations and disruptive behaviour.
04
The Five Precepts
All visitors are expected to observe the five precepts during their stay: refraining from harming living beings, stealing, sexual misconduct, false speech, and intoxicants.
05
Photography
Please ask for permission before taking photographs of monks or other individuals. Photography may be restricted in certain areas.
06
Offerings (Dāna)
If you wish to offer dāna (generosity), please do so at the designated time and place. Offerings of food, requisites, or funds are gratefully received.
Practical Information
Planning Your Visit
Getting Here
Galduwa Aranya Senasana is located near Ambalangoda in the Southern Province of Sri Lanka. The monastery can be reached by road from Colombo (approximately 2.5 hours) or from Galle (approximately 30 minutes).
Dāna — Generosity
Supporting the Monastery
The monastery operates entirely through the generosity (dāna) of the lay community. Monks do not handle money and depend on the kindness of supporters for all their material needs.
There are many ways to support the monastery and contribute to the preservation of the Dhamma:
- Offering food during the morning alms round or at the monastery
- Donating requisites such as robes, medicine, or building materials
- Financial contributions to support the monastery's maintenance and activities
- Offering your time and skills as a volunteer
The act of giving is itself a powerful practice, cultivating the quality of generosity that is the foundation of the Buddhist path.
We Look Forward to Welcoming You
Contact Us
For enquiries about visiting, staying at the monastery, or offering dāna, please do not hesitate to reach out. Email: [email protected]