Ruhuna and Weligama Buddhist Meditation
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We are two English-speaking Theravadin Buddhist Hermitages, located in Weligama and Mahiya Beach on the South Coast of Sri Lanka. We are devoted to teaching and practicing Vipassana and Buddhist Meditation, and the Buddha's timeless Teachings of Loving-Friendliness, Compassion, Sympathetic Joy, and Equanimity.
The Hermitages were founded by eminent Sri Lankan monk Venerable Kottawe Nanda, and his American Disciple, Bhante Sudhammananda.
Both Venerables are members of the Forest Sect (Wanawasa) of the Sri Lankan Siyam Nikaya, and have been practicing Meditation for over 30 years. Bhante Nanda is the Maha Nayaka Thero, and Chief Prelate, of the Sri Lankan Forest Sect in the United States.
Venerable Sudhammananda, or Bhante as he is called, was Ordained (Pabbajja) in Dambula, Sri Lanka, under the auspices of the Maha Nayaka Thero (Supreme Chief Monk) for the Country of Sri Lanka, Forest Sect, and received the Higher Ordination (Upasampada) from Senior Sri Lankan Monks in the United States.
As Buddhist Monks, we view the Dhamma as a Precious Gift, and therefore it is freely offered, without charge.
Whether you are a local Sri Lankan, an Ex-Pat, a Tourist, a Student, or Retiree, you can benefit greatly not just from Dhamma, but from learning and practicing Mindfulness and Vipassana Meditation. The Buddha emphasized the importance of putting the Dhamma into practice - not just by wholesome conduct, reducing selfishness, and intellectual understanding - but by actual time doing Meditation. At Ruhuna/Weligama Meditation, we provide opportunities to learn not only about the Buddha's Teachings, but the Meditation Methods he advanced - and to put them into Practice.
Meditation is possible for virtually everyone, no matter their level of experience or how many thoughts currently race through their minds. Beginners and experienced meditators will find the space and atmosphere conducive to Practice. Our Hermitage is available to everyone, regardless of religion, race, national origin, gender, identity, age, disability, or financial status. Everyone is sincerely welcome at our Buddhist Hermitages.
