Himalayan Institute: Free Community Open House
Description
Free open house event
Campus-wide wellness activities
Complimentary mocktails and gifts
Prize and basket giveaways
Guided yoga and hiking
Overview
An evening of relaxation, connection, and discovery
Looking for a refreshing way to unwind after work, meet like-minded people, and explore new wellness practices? Or perhaps you’re simply curious. Join us for a lively Free Community Open House, an immersive evening taking place across the scenic Himalayan Institute campus. Whether you’re a local professional, a wellness enthusiast, or someone just beginning to explore what we offer, this event brings together relaxation, discovery, and meaningful connection in one memorable experience.
A celebration of the Himalayan Institute experience
Stroll through themed displays showcasing the many offerings of the Institute, including Wellness and Massage, Excursions, Residential Programs, Guest Services, and more. Enjoy hands-on demonstrations, welcoming conversations, and practical ideas you can carry into your everyday life to support wellbeing.
As a thank-you for attending, every participant will receive a complimentary special gift valued at $25.
Mocktails, mingling, and movement
Enjoy complimentary signature mocktails while exploring campus highlights such as the MOKA Origins Chocolate Factory, Sunset Pond, and the Sri Vidya Shrine. Spend time with friends, colleagues, and family as you enjoy kayaking, swimming, and hiking surrounded by the natural beauty of the grounds.
Guided hiking tours and yoga sessions will be available throughout the evening, weather permitting, for those who want to experience the campus more deeply. At Sunset Pond, settle into gentle yoga, bonfire conversations, and s’mores while the evening sky glows with warm color.
Prizes and giveaways throughout the evening
Take part in prize drawings all night long, and don’t miss the Grand Gift Basket Giveaway, filled with local treasures and wellness-inspired items.
Wellness for work and daily life
Bring home simple, effective tools for stress reduction and mindfulness that can be used both at home and at work. These practices are designed to help you feel more centered, steady, and at ease in everyday life.
Free admission with registration
Admission is free, but registration is required so the team can create the best possible experience for everyone.
Come see what the curiosity is about. No experience is needed, and there are no expectations—just arrive as you are.
Reserve your free spot and receive your welcome materials upon arrival.
Teachers
Brian Fulp
Brian Fulp has been an integral part of the Himalayan Institute since 1997. He played a key role in helping the Institute enter the digital era by developing its first website, HimalayanInstitute.org. As head of the Web Department for more than a decade, Brian’s digital expertise helped broaden the Institute’s reach significantly.
Himalayan Institute Staff & Community
Retreat Center Highlights
Conscious simplicity
At the Himalayan Institute, simplicity is woven into every part of life, from the surroundings to the approach to yoga. By reducing distractions, the campus creates space to strengthen the inner self and quiet the mind. Rooted in authenticity and philosophy rather than frills, the Institute supports meaningful personal growth.
Treat yourself
The Himalayan Café serves the Institute’s signature chai, coffee, and homemade cookies and treats on Saturday and Sunday mornings. The 24/7 Tea Lounge offers a selection of herbal teas any time of day. On campus, the MOKA Origins Factory is open daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., featuring handcrafted, ethically sourced chocolate and coffee, along with free tours and tastings on Saturdays.
Sacred space
The Sri Vidya Shrine is the spiritual heart of the Himalayan Institute. This sanctuary offers an ideal setting for silent meditation and group spiritual practice, a cornerstone of the Himalayan Tradition for thousands of years. Open to seekers of all backgrounds and traditions, the Shrine provides a serene space for meditation, quiet reflection, prayer, and contemplation.
Nourishing meals
Nutritiously balanced vegetarian meals are thoughtfully prepared to nourish body, mind, and spirit. Each of the three daily meals is designed to be easy to digest and supportive of a meditative lifestyle. Sharing meals here naturally encourages connection, offering both nourishment and community.
Loving community
The Himalayan Institute welcomes people from all walks of life. With a mix of short-term guests, long-term visitors, and a vibrant residential community, the atmosphere is warm, inviting, and grounded in kindness, generosity, and service. It is a place where friendships form naturally and often grow into lifelong connections that feel like family.
Rest in nature
Nestled in the rolling hills of the Poconos, the Himalayan Institute’s 400-acre campus offers sweeping views, scenic hiking trails, and quiet places for reflection and contemplation. Walking is a favorite activity here, whether along groomed trails or winding paved roads, inviting both movement and mindful presence in nature.
Accommodation Options
Harmony Cottage
The Harmony cottage is nestled on the edge of the forest within the Himalayan Institute campus. This spacious cottage features a one-bedroom layout with a kitchen, full bathroom with tub and shower. Surrounded by the serene beauty of the Pocono Mountains, the cottage offers a tranquil escape where you can connect with nature. The open-concept living space combines the living area, kitchen, and dining space, providing ample room for relaxation and practice. This cottage includes a work desk with wifi and a single person sofa pullout. The bedroom is a cheerful sanctuary with a full size bed and walk in closet. The well-equipped kitchen includes a dishwasher and a washer and dryer. The bathroom includes a shower & tub.
Ananda Cottage
This cozy cottage offers a one-bedroom layout with a kitchen, bathroom with shower, and wifi. Nestled amidst the beauty of the Pocono Mountains, the Ananda Cottage provides a serene and tucked-away feeling, ideal for those seeking a peaceful escape. The open-concept floor plan offers a convenient flow between the kitchen, dining area, and living space. The bedroom provides a tranquil sanctuary with a comfortable, full size bed and a writing desk near the window. Outside, a private patio allows you to enjoy the serenity of the surroundings.
Guest House Suite
Our chalet-style accommodation features a spacious shared living room area that serves as the central hub for our 4 Private Two-Bedroom Suites. Each suite has a private bath, living room/sitting area, and a kitchenette equipped with a refrigerator (no cooking facilities provided). Additionally, each suite boasts a private bedroom with a full-size bed on the first floor, a pullout couch in the living room, and a roomy loft with a queen-sized bed on the second floor. Our Guest House Suite can accommodate up to 4 adults and 2 small children, making it an ideal choice for families or groups of friends.
Teachers
Organization
Brian Fulp has been a key part of the Himalayan Institute community since 1997, contributing to its growth through both vision and technical expertise. He helped guide the organization into the digital era by creating its first website, HimalayanInstitute.org, an important milestone in expanding its online presence. For more than ten years, Brian led the Web Department, where his deep...
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Place map
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Contact Information
Tue, May 12