November 21, 2025 - November 23, 2025
Start Time: 6:00 pm
Price range: R2,500 through R5,000
Description
In this Meditation Retreat we reflect on how we often feel that our daily life and our spiritual practices have nothing to do with each other. We may even regard our ordinary activities as obstacles to our spiritual development. It may seem as if our daily business prevents us from meditating, and the experiences we have in meditation disappear as soon as we get up and bring no benefit to our daily life. It shouldn’t be like that.
In this retreat we learn how to integrate our spiritual practice into our daily life, and how to transform all our activities into the spiritual path. All our experiences can deepen our spiritual insights, and our spiritual sights can improve the quality of all our experiences. Learning how to practise in everything we do, we will quickly make progress on the spiritual path, and we will experience great peace and happiness in our daily life.
Retreat Schedule
Friday
18:00 – 19:00 Opening Dinner
19.30 – 20.45 Introduction
Saturday
09.00 – 10.15 Session 1
11.15 – 12.30 Session 2
13:00 Lunch
16.45 – 18.00 Session 3
18:00 Dinner
19:00 – 19:45 Heart Jewel Puja (optional)
Sunday
09.00 – 10.15 Session 4
11.15 -12.30 Session 5
12:30 Closing Lunch
Breakfast starts at 7:30 on Saturday & Sunday
Retreat Venue
Retreat Teacher
Gen Kelsang Namkhyen
Gen Kelsang Namkyhen is the Resident Teacher of Tushita Kadampa Meditation Centre.
He ordained as a Buddhist monk in 1999 and taught extensively in the UK and The Netherlands before coming to South Africa in 2020.
Benefits of a Buddhist Meditation Retreat
"This immersive experience empowers us to carry the transformative benefits of meditation into our daily lives"
A Kadampa Buddhist Meditation Retreat offers profound opportunities for inner transformation and spiritual growth. During these retreats we immerse our self in a tranquil environment away from the distractions of daily life. This allows for a deepening of our meditation practice.
The retreats provide a perfect space to explore the potential of our mind, promote clarity and an insight into the nature of reality.
By engaging in meditation sessions we can purify our minds, reduce stress, and develop a more profound connection with our true nature. This immersive experience empowers us to carry the transformative benefits of meditation into our daily lives promoting harmony, inner strength along with a deeper understanding of our self and our world.
Venue and Accommodation
The Grail Centre is an eco-friendly retreat one hour’s drive from Cape Town, in the Western Cape, South Africa. The town of Kleinmond has plenty of shops and restaurants for all amenities.
The Cape cottages within the centre are ideal for individual and group retreats. All cottages have a fully equipped kitchen, an indoor fireplace and private outdoor braai facilities. Some of the cottages are pet-friendly with enclosed gardens. The beach is a ten minute walk away and there are a variety of hikes which can be enjoyed between the meditation sessions along with a communal swimming pool.
FAQs
What is the food like at the retreat?
- All meals are vegetarian. Vegan food is available on request. If you have any special dietary needs, please email Kriss Barker
- Meals: dinner on Friday; breakfast, lunch and dinner on Saturday; breakfast and lunch on Sun
- You may bring snacks – shared kitchen space (with fridge) is available
Can I bring my pet to the retreat?
Yes, well behaved pets are welcome. When you book, please inform Kriss Barker if you are planning to bring your pet, as we will need to make sure that your cottage mates are comfortable sharing their space with your furry friend.
Is there WiFi and cell reception at the retreat centre?
Yes
What accommodation is available?
- There are 2 ensuite cottages (1 with 2 x single beds, and 1 with a double bed). First come, first serve.
- The Penguin Cottage has 2 bedrooms and one shared bathroom, a shared kitchen and shared lounge.
- The Seagull Cottage has 2 bedrooms and one shared bathroom, a shared kitchen and shared lounge. The Seagull Cottage is wheelchair friendly.
- The Kingfisher Cottage has 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, a shared kitchen and shared lounge.
- Each of the shared cottages has an indoor fireplace.
Is the retreat suitable for beginners in meditation and Buddhist practice?
Yes, absolutely!
Is the retreat centre accessible for people with mobility challenges?
- Yes. The Seagull Cottage is wheelchair friendly.
What should I bring with me to the retreat?
- Your curiosity, and interest in learning more about Buddhist practice. A notebook and pen if you wish to take notes.
- Chairs are available in the meditation room, but if you prefer to sit on a cushion, bring it along! You might also want to bring a blanket or shawl, as if might be a bit chilly in the mornings and evenings in the meditation room.
- Any special snacks, or your favourite brand of coffee or tea (for those aficionados!)
- Comfy clothes
Are there any nearby attractions or activities?
- The Centre has its own swimming pool, and there is also a labyrinth for quiet walking meditation.
- The Grail Centre is located at the foot of the Kleinmond mountains. There are several hiking trails in the mountains (for all levels of fitness!).
- The beach is a 10-minute walk away, and offers excellent surfing.
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