Nilambe was founded by laypeople for laypeople, is one of the most well-known centers in Sri Lanka and is beautifully situated in a famous tea-growing area about 30 km south of Kandy. It is known for its pleasant and friendly atmosphere. The center was formerly led by the teacher Godwin Samararatne, who passed away in 2000 and was also known in the West.
Tradition and Teacher: Upul Gamage, Theravada, Vipassana meditation. With special emphasis on loving-kindness, devotion, and self-acceptance. Main meditation objects are thoughts and emotions.
Rules: The day begins at 5 a.m. with a sitting period, after yoga follows breakfast and a work meditation. Then alternating sitting and walking until lunch. In the afternoon again sitting, walking, another yoga session, and a chanting period (recitation). In the evening there is a snack and a Dhamma discussion. In between there are breaks for walks in the beautiful landscape. The rules are as usual in the Theravada tradition (except for half an hour of silence in the afternoon, women and men live in separate areas, quiet, no smoking), but are handled less strictly than in other centers in Sri Lanka.
Course Duration and Dates: Since individual guidance is provided, no special dates need to be observed. In December/January or April/May the center can become full, so to be safe, register in good time.
Language(s): English or Sinhalese.
Accommodation: For women and men there are very simple single and double kutis. A sleeping bag is highly recommended, but there are also blankets.
Meals: The food is vegetarian and can be quite spicy. Those who want to be sure about the drinking water should use a brought-along water purification agent or a water filter.
Costs: Meals and overnight stay cost 400 rupees per day (exchange rate 2004: 1 Euro = approx. 120 rupees).
Climate: Very pleasant. The center is located at 1200 m, therefore sometimes quite cool at night. Therefore also bring warmer clothing and a sleeping bag.
Remarks: Good conditions and also suitable for beginners. However, there are not many instructions on meditation practice. There is a small library. For a longer stay, support is provided for obtaining a visa. Since there is no electricity in the center, bring a flashlight and sufficient spare batteries (new LED lamps are much more economical). During or after rain there are many leeches. Therefore “Citronella” recommended against leeches and mosquitoes (few).