Monastic Life & Meditation Exchange

Day 1: Shivapuri Ascent & Entry into Monastic Living
Kathmandu / Budhanilkantha to Nagi Gumba
Morning: Group orientation at Budhanilkantha gate followed by a gentle2-3 hour trek through oak, pine and rhododendron forests that are characteristic of the Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park.

Afternoon: Arrive at Nagi Gumba (around 1,900m) and settle into your simple monastic guest quarters. You will be introduced to monastic etiquette, silent hours and specific monastery guidelines.

Evening: Attending the evening prayer chanti (Puja) with the nuns in the main gompa followed by a introduction to basic Buddhist breath awareness practices (Anapanasati).

Day 2: Immersion in Monastic Routine & Meditation
Shivapuri Nagi Gumba
05:30 AM: Morning gong call followed by joining the nuns chanting and moving through gentle exercises in the monastery courtyard.

Morning: Participation in a Guided Shamatha (calming the mind) Meditation session followed by a mid-morning Buddhist philosophy lecture exploring impermanence and loving-kindness .

Afternoon: Participate in Mindful monastery service (Karma Yoga) helping out in the monastery gardens or tea distribution followed by a personal contemplation time overlooking the Kathmandu Valley.

Evening: Sunset walking meditation around the stupas (Kora) with an evening Q&A session with senior nuns exploring monastic discipline and mental focus.

Day 3: Deep Silence & Mindful Wisdom Exchange
Shivapuri Nagi Gumba
Early Morning: Silent meditation overlooking the valley mist.

Morning: Guided session on Vipassana (insight) meditation techniques followed by a silent vegetarian breakfast.

Afternoon: Cultural exchange circle where you will have the opportunity to share your life perspectives while also learning about your fellow guests experiences as well as their journey in the education and spiritual path of young nuns in Nepal.

Evening: Final night Puja and butter-lamp ceremony inside the shrine hall with reflection time for your upcoming trail walking journey.

Day 4: Trail Trek to Goujini (Hillage Nepal)
Nagi Gumba to Goujini (Approx. 6-7 hours trek)
Morning: Early departure after morning prayers. Trekking along the high ridgeline of Shivapuri through evergreen sub-tropical forests.

Afternoon: Stop for trail lunch in maidan before continuing on the national park trail towards the ridge outpost of Goujini (~1150m).

Evening: Arrival in Goujini followed by an evening rest and sunset views over the beautiful hills surrounding the Hills.

Day 5: Himalayan Sunrise & Time at Hillage Nepal

Chisapani to Hillage Nepal (Countryside Farmstay)
Morning: Catch the sunrise over the eastern Himalayan ranges followed by a gentle downward trek through the countryside village paths towards Hillage Nepal.

Afternoon: Warm welcome to the Hillage Nepal Retreat & Farmstay followed by your orientation to the eco-farm, surrounding hills and relaxed retreat set up.

Evening: Organic, locally harvested farm dinner followed by a grounding sunset session on the open deck and fireside evening chatter.

Day 6: Nature-Centered Wellness & Village Integration
Hillage Nepal Retreat & Farmstay
Morning: Outdoor Yoga and grounding movement session followed by mindfulness in farming activity, learning about the traditional crops and working with the soil.

Afternoon: Village walk through the local countryside learning about the local village and its traditional living and nature-based practices.

Evening: Sound healing or group sharing circle. Integration session exploring your monastic mindfulness with day-to-day active living.

Day 7: Sunrise Practice & Program Closure
Hillage Nepal to Departure
Morning: Morning meditation in nature followed by a farewell breakfast made up of local farm products.

Late Morning: Closing circle sharing and departure back to Kathmandu for your return journey.

Essential Guidelines & Preparation
Diet & Lifestyle: Meals at Nagi Gumba and Hillage Nepal are strictly vegetarian, focussing on fresh local ingredients.
Dress Code: Modest clothing covering shoulders and knees is required when being inside Nagi Gumba.
Shivapuri Entry Permits: Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park entry permits will be required at the park checkpoint