General Information about Retreats

Meditation Retreats at Panditarama Sydney Meditation Centre

Reconnect with Yourself. Deepen Your Practice. Find Peace.

Panditarama Sydney Meditation Centre (PSMC) invites both new and experienced meditators to join our special retreat program from 18th July to the end of August. Each retreat session lasts 10 days, with limited spaces available—maximum 4 female and 3 male participants per session. Reserve your spot early to ensure your participation.

Why Meditate at PSMC?

Our retreats are designed to give you a complete and immersive meditation experience, guided by the resident monk:

Venerable Maha Nayaka Aungsi Sayadaw U Pannathami

  • Delivers daily Dhamma talksinspired by the teachings of the late Most Venerable Mahasi Sayadaw and Sayadaw U Panditabhivamsa.
  • Offers personal interviewsevery two days to discuss your meditation progress and experiences.

At PSMC, you will experience:

  • Vipassana Meditationtraining, learning the essentials of mindfulness and insight practice.
  • Silent meditation periods, mindful walking in nature, and extended meditation sessions.
  • A peaceful, supportive environment for deepening awareness and focus.

Finding Peace & Community

Nestled on a serene 4.5-acre property in Horsley Park, far from the city’s noise but within easy reach of Greater Western Sydney, PSMC is a sanctuary for the mind and heart.

Founded in 2000 by Sayadaw U Pannathami, PSMC is a place to:

  • Reconnect with yourself through meditation, mindfulness, and Buddhist teachings.
  • Experience structured retreats ranging from a few days to over a week.
  • Participate in half-day meditation sessions for beginners and seasoned practitioners.

The Centre is also a hub of Buddhist culture and community, hosting ceremonies like Vesak Day, Vassa Robe Offering, and Sayadaw U Pannathami’s birthday. Visitors are welcome to help with daily tasks such as preparing food or supporting the monks—practicing generosity and mindful service.

Guidelines for Retreat Participants

To ensure a focused and mindful retreat experience:

  • Observe the Eight Precepts.
  • Maintain Noble Silence; avoid unnecessary speech and socializing.
  • Complete personal and business matters before the retreat.
  • Limit communication via phone or email.
  • Perform all activities slowly and mindfully.

Cost

All retreats are free of charge. Food, and facilities are fully funded by donations from previous participants who wish to share the benefits of Vipassana.

Food Provided

  • Two meals a day: breakfast and lunch, following Theravada tradition.
  • Meals are nutritious, balanced, clean, and wholesome.

What to Bring

  • Comfortable clothing
  • Pillow and blankets
  • Medicine and multivitamins

Daily Routine

Time Activity
4:00 am Wake up
4:30 – 5:30 am Sitting meditation
6:00 am Breakfast
7:00 am Walking meditation
8:00 am Taking Eight Precepts & Sitting meditation
9:00 am Walking meditation
10:00 am Sitting meditation
11:00 am Lunch
12:00 pm Walking meditation
Time Activity
1:00 pm Sitting meditation
2:00 pm Walking meditation
3:00 pm Sitting meditation
4:00 pm Personal interview / walking meditation
5:00 pm Sitting meditation
6:00 pm Afternoon refreshments
7:00 pm Dhamma talks by Sayadaw
8:00 pm Walking meditation
9:00 pm End of the day

Reserve Your Spot

Spaces are limited to 4 female and 3 male participants per session. Book early to secure your place and experience the tranquil environment, mindful practice, and compassionate guidance of Panditarama Sydney Meditation Centre.

meditation retreat form