Engaging in a personal retreat at Kadampa Meditation Center New York offers you an opportunity to disconnect from the noise of everyday life and reconnect with inner peace. Rather than a designed itinerary, our personal retreats are self-directed experiences within a supportive spiritual framework. We provide access to meditation spaces, and a peaceful community environment—allowing you to craft a retreat suited to your personal needs, whether that's deep meditation practice, rest and relaxation, reading, walking, or reflection.

A personal retreat is ideal for those seeking to rest and recharge in the peace and tranquility of the Catskills. Depending on what you're looking for, there is much to enjoy and take advantage of at our retreat center. Many guests find that the combination of quiet time, beautiful surroundings, and access to our facilities creates the ideal setting for personal growth and inner stillness.

Personal Retreats

What You Can Experience

During your stay, you have the freedom to shape your retreat according to your needs. Some guests come for intensive meditation practice and teachings, while others prioritize rest, connection with nature, or simply being in a spiritual environment. The framework we provide—our weekly classes, meditation spaces, and supportive community—allows you to deepen whatever practice or restoration you seek.

A Spiritual Place

Please know that our center is fundamentally a spiritual practice space. We maintain certain guidelines to support the peaceful, contemplative atmosphere for all guests: no alcohol, no recreational drugs, and no loud music. Our main center rules include respecting quiet hours (typically after 10 PM), maintaining mindful speech, and honoring the sanctity of our meditation spaces and Temple. We welcome people of all backgrounds and beliefs; these guidelines simply help us create the conditions for meaningful practice and rest.

The World Peace Temple with ornate decorations and a central tower, surrounded by a well-maintained garden with green trees and wooden benches.
A man with a beard reading a book titled 'Eight Steps to Happiness' while sitting on a beige armchair near a window with wooden blinds.

Your Stay Includes

  • Vegetarian meals (with vegan & wheat-free options) — nourishing food prepared with care

  • Accommodation — your choice of private ensuites, shared rooms, or rustic seasonal options

  • Weekly meditation classes — teachings and guided meditations accessible for all levels

  • Access to meditation spaces — including our World Peace Temple during open hours

  • MP3 player library — opportunity to reserve a kit containing guided meditations, Buddhist teachings, and books on Kadampa Buddhism

  • Walking trails, World Peace Cafe & Bookstore — see Cafe & Shop open hours

  • Opportunity to connect with our spiritual community — many guests value the warmth and support of practicing alongside others; this is entirely optional and based on your preference

Accommodations & Pricing

Our retreat center offers a rustic setting surrounded by peaceful countryside, creating an ideal environment for reflection, relaxation, and renewal. We have a variety of accommodation types to fit your preferences and budget, from single ensuite rooms to dorms with bunk beds and shared bathrooms.

While we do not provide all the amenities and comforts of a hotel, we strive to offer a warm and welcoming experience. If you have any specific needs, restrictions, or special requirements, please let us know before your stay so we can best accommodate you.

The price includes accommodation, vegetarian meals, and weekly classes. If your personal retreat overlaps with one of our organized courses or retreats, the course fee will be added to your booking.

Unavailable Dates

Please note that there are some dates throughout our year that are unavailable for booking.

July 22 - August 11 (Summer Break)

August 20-23 (Family Weekend)

August 31 - Sept 9 (Northeast Dharma Celebration)

November 4 - 11 (NYC Country Retreat)

Jan 1 - March 28 (Winter Retreats and Winter Break)

How to Book

If you wish to book a stay, please complete the online pre-registration form. Please note that this form is not a reservation — it allows us to determine availability for your chosen accommodation during your selected dates. We will then respond to your request via e-mail or phone call within 2 business days.

Kadampa practitioners interested in booking a long-term personal retreat are welcome to email us at info@kadampanewyork.org.