Visiting

Sati Saraniya Hermitage is a monastery for fully-ordained women, bhikkhunis in the Canadian Forest tradition of Theravada Buddhism. The community is sustained through the kindness and generosity – dana – of our wider community. We receive financial support as well as basic requisites such as food, medicines, clothing, and household items. Volunteers also help with repair and maintenance of the monastery.

On some occasions, aspirants for the monastic life can visit and stay overnight. They observe Eight Precepts, the basic code of conduct for lay residents, and join in our daily schedule of morning and evening meditation, work periods and individual time for silent practice and study. Use of devices is minimized to encourage leaving all worldly concerns behind. There are no pets and no smoking in the monastery.

We are not hosting short-term guests for the remainder of this year.

*THE EIGHT PRECEPTS

1. Harmlessness: not intentionally taking the life of any living being.
2. Trustworthiness: not take anything that has not been given.
3. Celibacy: refrain from any kind of sexual behaviour.
4. Skilful-kind speech: avoid false, abusive, malicious or idle talk.
5. Sobriety: abstain from intoxicating drink and non-medical drugs.
6. Renunciation: not eat after midday (12 noon or 1 pm during Daylight Savings time.)
7. Modesty and focus: modest apparel, limited internet use, abstain from make-up, jewellery, music, games or entertainment.
8. Alertness: not indulge in sleep.

Useful items: flashlight, toiletries, slip on shoes, work clothes, tick protection, alarm, outdoor jacket, rain/snow boots-accessories, personal medicines, slippers, sleeping bag, towel/pillow case (if coming by car)

Please submit a detailed Request to Stay (note: we are closed Jan 3 – Mar 31).