The meditation retreat centre is situated on the outskirts of Pokhara, approximately 1 mile from the tourist area at Lakeside.  It was started in 1993 to provide a peaceful place where meditation could be taught.

The centre is part of the Foundation for the Preservation of the Mahayana Tradition (FPMT), a worldwide organisation of over 100 Buddhist centres and activities directed by Lama Zopa Rinpoche. The organization provides integrated education through which people’s minds and hearts can be transformed into their highest potential for the benefit of others, inspired by an attitude of universal responsibility.

Accommodation at the retreat centre is basic and simple.  The main building is a two-storey structure with the meditation room on the first floor, with large floor to ceiling windows looking over Lake Phewa to the International Peace Pagoda on the hill above the opposite shore.  On the ground floor is an office a small library and the kitchen.  There is an open veranda where meals are taken and discussion groups are held.  Sleeping arrangements comprise two person chalets with single beds, simple foam mattresses and pillows, which to some Western heads may be a little hard, (this is where the inflatable pillow comes in!).  Toilet facilities comprise one western and one continental style toilet and a shower room.  A slight drawback to the shower being that it is solar powered so if the sun doesn’t shine the water is not hot!

Meals are cooked on the premises by the centre staff and again are basic but tasty.  Because this is a Buddhist centre the food is vegetarian, with a subsa

There is a rule of silence, which it is hoped everyone will adhere to, from the start of meditation in the evening until the end of the meditation the following morning.