​The Ancient Path

​A Three-Day Retreat & Pilgrimage in Anuradhapura and Ritigala

​Dates: Friday, August 14–Sunday, August 16, 2026
Location: Anuradhapura and Ritigala, Sri Lanka
Event type: In person
Timezone: Asia/Colombo

​Short Summary

​Three days of meditation, Dhamma practice, spiritual community, and pilgrimage in the ancient Buddhist surroundings of Anuradhapura and Ritigala.

​Event Description

​Join Venerable Atulo, Venerable Tay, and fellow practitioners for a three-day journey of meditation, reflection, and pilgrimage in the ancient surroundings of Anuradhapura and Ritigala.

​Anuradhapura was once Sri Lanka’s political and religious capital and remains one of the island’s great centres of Buddhist devotion. Amid its ancient stupas, monasteries, sacred trees, and pathways, we will follow a path shaped by centuries of practice—while turning inward towards stillness, clarity, and peace.

​The first two days will centre on retreat practice. The programme will include guided morning and evening meditation, chanting, walking meditation, Dhamma talks, periods of silence, communal gatherings, and space during the day for personal practice, reflection, and rest.

​On the final day, we will make a pilgrimage to Ritigala, an ancient forest monastic sanctuary long associated with Buddhist renunciation and contemplative life.

​The retreat is intended to provide both the supportive structure of communal practice and the spaciousness needed for quiet personal reflection.

​Programme at a Glance

​Friday, August 14 — Retreat Day One

​Arrival and orientation, guided meditation, chanting, Dhamma reflection, and shared practice.

​Saturday, August 15 — Retreat Day Two

​Morning and evening group practice, walking and sitting meditation, Dhamma teachings, silence, and personal practice.

​Sunday, August 16 — Pilgrimage Day

​Pilgrimage to Ritigala, meditation and reflection in the forest surroundings, and closing of the programme.

​A more detailed schedule will be provided to registered participants.

​What to Expect

• ​Guided sitting and walking meditation

• ​Morning and evening chanting

• ​Dhamma talks and reflections

• ​Periods of silence and personal practice

• ​Communal gatherings and spiritual friendship

• ​Free time for rest and reflection

• ​Pilgrimage

​Practical Information

​The exact meeting point, accommodation, transport arrangements, meal information, recommended items to bring, and arrival and departure times will be sent to confirmed participants.

​Participants are encouraged to attend the complete three-day programme so that the group can practise together throughout the retreat and pilgrimage.

​Please bring any personal medicines and practice items you may require.

​Registration

​Because accommodation and transportation may be limited, advance registration is required.