Introduction

Chanmyay Yeiktha, Yangon, functions mainly as a meditation center but is also a monastery with resident monks (meditation teachers) and nuns. It is for foreigners and Myanmar meditators alike.

Foreigners are well catered for and have their own quarters and schedules. Single rooms are provided whenever possible. Men and women's accommodation is separate, clean and simple, complete with bed line and mosquito nets. The bathrooms have computerized washing machines.

Two healthy meals are served everyday, one at dawn, another before noon. Drinks such as orange juice are offered in the evening. Vegetarian food is available on request. In the dining hall, every one eats slowly, quietly and mindfully. Clean, safe, hot and cold drinking water is supplied.

The electricity supply is 230V AC. The office has a telephone where international calls can be received or made and paid for. No reverse charge is available for in or out-going calls. There is a fax machine, for emergency use only. Prepaid aerogramme are not available or bring your own writing paper and envelops.

There is a medical clinic with doctors coming on a regular basis. "Western" and traditional medicines are available. If you foresee your own. There is no malaria in Yangon or central Myanmar, but take precautions in the remote and border areas. for immunizations please consult your doctor.

Yangon has a tropical climate which means it's mostly hot and humid. The rainy season is usually from about June to October. The cool dry season is form November to February, it can be quite pleasant and good for meditation. form Much to June are the hot, dry months.

Light, easily washable and quick drying cloths are useful. The Myanmar longyi is practical and most yogis were light, long sleeve cotton shirts.

Please write, phone, fax or e-mail details of your arrival flight one week before arriving so you can be met at the airport and likewise on departure. Transport is readily available. Mail can take up to ten days to reach us.

It is preferred that foreigners practice at least one months. Please bring extra passport photos for the various forms. For less than for weeks, a tourist visa is adequate. However, for long periods, you must obtain a meditation visa before coming to Myanmar. This requires a sponsorship letter from the abbot, Sayadaw Ashin Janakabhivamsa (known in Myanmar as the Chanmyay Sayadaw).

for long term meditation, you are invited to ordain as a monk, novice or nun. It is an excellent opportunity and will enhance your experience in meditation and Myanmar, however it is not obligatory.

Lay meditators must observe the eight precepts. Talking is kept to an absolute minimum, as is reading and writing.

we teach and practice insight (Vipassana) meditation according to the Satipatthana Sutta and the Mahasi tradition.

Meditators are expected to practice intensively, at least from 3:30 am to 9:30 pm everyday performing all activities slowly, to allow continuity of mindfulness and strong concentration.

Men and women have separate large meditation halls for sitting and walking meditation. These have a conducive atmosphere for meditation practice.

There is a general daily timetable but the teacher gives specific meditation instruction to the meditators based on their individual experience and ability. Please follow the teacher's instructions, letting go of other practices.

Meditation instructions and interviews are given in English on alternate days. Sometimes and interpreter is used if an English speaking teacher is not available.

Chanmyay Yeiktha Hmawbi

This is a new, modernized center, a branch of Chanmyay Yeiktha, Yangon. It is located in a cooler and quiet farming region about 45 minutes drive to the North of Yangon. It is situated on about 13 acres of gardens with many large shady trees and bordered by small, typical Myanmar villages.

The buildings have two, four or rooms, attached bathrooms with western toilets and showers and inset screens on the windows and doors. whenever available, foreign meditators have private rooms and walking areas.

We have a large, peaceful meditation hall which is divided for men and women and is conducive for meditation. also, an unique feature is the installation of many wooden platforms with shelters and walking paths under the trees to provide yogis with solitude and outdoor meditation.

All other facilities and schedules are as in Yangon.

Potential meditators are requested to register at Chanmyay Yeiktha, Yangon before going to Hmawbi.

Chanmyay Yeiktha, Hinthada

At present only caters for Myanmar Meditators.

"Chanmyay Yeiktha" in Myanmar means "peaceful hermitage", so may all beings be peaceful and attain to Nibbana

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