Easter retreat - Befriending Shakyamuni
Thursday 17 April – Monday 21 April at Retreat centre Abhayaloka
An invitation to deepen your connection with Buddha Shakyamuni—not just as a revered figure and expounder of the Dharma, but as the ultimate spiritual friend. Through guided meditation, devotional practice, scriptural stories, and the power of imagination, we will explore how Shakyamuni's presence can inspire and support us on our spiritual quest. Encounter the profound wisdom, compassion, and friendship the Buddha offers to each of us, and leave with a renewed sense of connection on the path to Enlightenment.
The retreat is led by Khemabandhu (Adhisthana, UK) and Kusaladevi (UK).
You can book by paying the deposit 50€ now and the rest closer to the retreat. Please book by 9th of April.
Typical Daily Programme
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 6:30 | Wake up |
| 7:00 | Meditation |
| 8:00 | Meditation |
| 9:00 | Breakfast |
| 10:30 | Introduction, group discussion, meditation |
| 13:00 | Lunch, then free time for walks etc. |
| 16:00 | Introduction, group discussion, meditation |
| 18:00 | Supper |
| 20:00 | Puja etc. ritual |
Guideline program for all retreats; the schedule may vary slightly based on the theme of the retreat.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the retreat start and end?
Retreats generally start on the evening of the first day at 6 PM and end on the last day at 3 PM.
Are pets allowed?
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed at Abhayloka (with the exception of guide dogs).
Do I need to have previous experience with meditation?
We recommend that you have either attended the open evenings at the Triratna Buddhist Centre or participated in the center’s basic meditation course before coming to Abhayaloka for the first time.
What should I bring with me?
Please bring bed linen/sleeping bag and a towel with you. In winter, it’s a good idea to prepare with warm clothing. During the retreat, there is often an opportunity to go for a nature walk, so it’s advisable to have weather-appropriate clothing/shoes.
How is accommodation arranged?
The retreat center has facilities for approximately 25 people. Accommodation is in rooms with 1 to 6 beds.
What kind of food is offered?
All food at the retreat is vegan, which we prepare together. In addition, cheese will be available for those who want it. We provide gluten-free crispbread and rice cakes, but if you want fresh gluten-free bread, please bring it with you.
How do I get to Abhayaloka?
Arrival by public transport:
Several buses come from Helsinki, departing from the Kamppi bus station. There are no direct connections at the moment. The travel time is approximately 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours. The stop to get off at is Järventaustan th, the third stop after the center of Läyliäinen. Abhayaloka is about 3 km from there towards Hevosoja, on the right side of the road, in a large yellow wooden house. You can inform us of your arrival time, and we will try to pick you up from that junction.
For people traveling from abroad there will be arrangements to travel together from Helsinki to Abhayaloka.
Arrival by car:
The retreat center is 67 km from Helsinki, 136 km from Tampere, 175 km from Turku, and 29 km from Riihimäki. There are parking spaces available for those arriving by car.
The Team
Where to Find Us
The retreat center operates in the old village school of Järventausta in Läyliäinen, Loppi, by the shores of Lake Loppi.
arriving at Abhayaloka
Abhayaloka
Triratna Buddhist Centre Helsinki Retreat Centre
Järventaustantie 816
12600 Läyliäinen
Tel. +358 50 318 8621
(Phone operational only during retreats)
Arrival by public transport:
Several buses come from Helsinki, departing from the Kamppi bus station. There are no direct connections at the moment. The travel time is approximately 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours. The stop to get off at is Järventaustan th, the third stop after the center of Läyliäinen. Abhayaloka is about 3 km from there towards Hevosoja, on the right side of the road, in a large yellow wooden house. You can inform us of your arrival time, and we will try to pick you up from that junction.
For people traveling from abroad there will be arrangements to travel together from Helsinki to Abhayaloka.
Arrival by car:
The retreat center is 67 km from Helsinki, 136 km from Tampere, 175 km from Turku, and 29 km from Riihimäki. There are parking spaces available for those arriving by car.