Nilambe was founded by laypeople for laypeople, is one of the best-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 Sinhala.
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. If you want to be sure about the drinking water, use a water purification agent or a water filter you brought with you.
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, so sometimes quite cool at night. Therefore, also bring warmer clothing and a sleeping bag.
Note
Good conditions and also suitable for beginners. However, there are not many instructions on meditation practice. A small library is available.
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” is recommended against leeches and mosquitoes (few).
Arrival
From Kandy take the usually overcrowded bus towards Galaha to Nilambe Office Junction (km 18, approx. 1h). Then take a tuk-tuk up to the center or follow the main path to the mountain peak. The walk takes about 45 minutes. In dry weather you can also use the stairs through the tea plantation. Taxi or “three-wheeler” from Kandy costs 700-800 rupees.