DHAMMA VIHARA MEXICO

Although there are a number of places to go on meditation retreats in Central Mexico, one of our favorite locations is the monastery operated by Dhamma Vihara near Jilotepec, Veracruz.  Situated in the mountains about 30 minutes by taxi from the city of Jalapa, it’s easily one of the most beautiful places to seek solitude in this country.

The abbot of this monastery is the Venerable Bhikku Nandisena.  He’s not only fluent in Spanish and English but also has a high level of capability in Pali.  As a scholar and practitioner, he’s a truly kind-hearted and wise instructor and counselor, one my wife and I would recommend to anyone who has an interest in the discipline of meditation as a means to improve his or her life.

Here is an excellent view of the monastery where you can see the building that houses the kitchen and dining facilities.  On the right is a view of the porch in front of the meditation hall and the teacher’s quarters.  Practitioners who like walking meditation have ample opportunity to enjoy a space away from the noise of traffic, for there’s only the sound of birds and small animals being filtered through the forested environment.

Here we see a view of the dormitory located in back of the kitchen and dining facilities.  Each student is housed in a small but comfortable room.   Surrounded by nature, it is a wonderfully serene atmosphere in which to enjoy a pleasant night’s sleep.

Here is a side view of the meditation hall, teacher’s quarters, and meeting rooms.  There is sufficient space for around 30 or so practitioners and teachers. 

Please believe me when I say that walking meditation in the misty fog of the early mornings at this monastery is a unique experience, especially when you’re alone.  Even though I prefer sitting meditation, I’ll definitely defer that preference when such weather conditions prevail.

This is a photo of our first time at the monastery several years ago.  Pictured in the center, of course, is the Venerable Bhikku Nandisena.  Rebe and I are located on the lower left hand side.

The people in the Sangha who help manage the retreats are remarkably gracious and of great assistance.  They support us with assigned chores, assist with the cooking and serving, and offer helpful advice regarding practice.  Creating such a wonderful setting, they are largely responsible for why meditators return.  

Rebe and I have been here on retreat twice, and we’re going back again this fall.  We know that our time there will be productive and enjoyable.

The web address for Dhama Vihara Mexico is:  www.dhammavihara.org