
The Buddhist path of awakening is traditionally described through the middle way and the noble eightfold path. Among its key elements, mindfulness, vigor, and composure are essential, while wise understanding gives direction to right thought and right aim. This retreat will center on these two guiding path factors and their vital place in practice.
Mindfulness includes awareness of our perceptions, thoughts, beliefs, and opinions. Dhamma teachings invite us to examine these inner patterns in ways that support insight, awakening, and release. Through this process, we can refine our attitudes and aspirations, which in turn influences the other aspects of the path.
Working from the original teachings, Santikaro will offer selected readings that highlight important Dhamma perspectives. Together, we will use them to reflect on our current beliefs, assumptions, and attitudes, strengthening what supports awakening and loosening what does not. The retreat will unfold in a setting of noble silence, quiet meditation periods, supportive sangha, and the natural peace and beauty of Cloud Mountain. Please arrive ready to reflect, contemplate, and also let go of thinking.
Partial attendance is not available for this retreat. In addition, please consider joining only if your current life circumstances allow you to take part in an important modern renunciation practice: staying offline and remaining off phone and text for the full duration of the retreat, with limited exceptions for urgent family matters.
CURRENT PUBLIC HEALTH & SAFETY PROTOCOLS:
Cloud Mountain continues to maintain public health and safety measures. Requirements vary by season, though some level of masking remains part of the retreat protocols.
Please follow this link for UPDATED INFORMATION ABOUT OUR HEALTH AND SAFETY PROTOCOLS.
SCHOLARSHIP INFO
Scholarship funds are available for all retreats to support participants facing financial challenges. For more information, please see the Scholarship section of our overview information.
RETREAT COST
Generosity Tier : $830 plus dana offerings to teacher(s) and staff
Base Tier : $630 plus dana offerings to teacher(s) and staff
Subsidized Tier : $530 plus dana offerings to teacher(s) and staff
In keeping with Buddhist tradition, none of the registration fee goes to the teacher(s). Please consider offering teacher dāna during the event to support their livelihood. Dāna refers to generosity, or freely given support. More information about this practice of offering the teachings and the "economy of gifts" is available on the Donation page.
Located within the Main Building, this shared room offers a simple, comfortable setting designed with ease and accessibility in mind. Situated on the ground level, it is one of the sleeping rooms that can be especially suitable for guests with special physical needs or mobility limitations.
For added convenience, the room includes its own sink and toilet, helping create a practical and independent stay experience. Its layout supports a calm, uncomplicated atmosphere, making it a thoughtful choice for visitors who value functionality and accessibility during their time at the retreat.
Whether you are joining for rest, reflection, or a wellness program, this room provides the essentials needed for a peaceful stay in a shared accommodation setting.

BioSantikaro is a Buddhist teacher who sees mindfulness and meditation as essential parts of the noble path toward awakening and wholeness. His practice and teaching are rooted in the discourses of Early Buddhism, inspired by his beloved teacher, Ajahn Buddhadasa Bhikkhu. He trained as a Theravada monk for 19 years and studied with Ajahn Buddhadasa for 9 years, serving as...
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Price
$530.00
Fri, Jul 17 – Thu, Jul 23