Vipassana International Academy (Dhamma Giri)

Location

Dhamma Giri Vipassana International Academy, Igatpuri, Nashik District, Maharashtra, India

Facilities

Languages

English, Hindi

Philosophers

S. N. Goenka

Introduction

The Vipassana International Academy, also known as Dhamma Giri, is a prominent meditation center located in the serene town of Igatpuri, India visited by writers like Daniel Goleman and Paul Fleischman. Established by S.N. Goenka, this center is dedicated to teaching Vipassana meditation, a technique that promotes self-awareness and mental purification through the observation of breath and bodily sensations. Dhamma Giri is one of the largest meditation centers globally and plays a significant role in the spread of Vipassana meditation worldwide.

A Typical Day

A typical day at Dhamma Giri is structured to maximize meditation practice and self-reflection. The day begins early at 4:00 AM with the morning gong. Participants follow a strict schedule that includes several meditation sessions, short breaks, meals, and rest periods. Here is an outline of a typical day’s schedule:

4:00 AM: Wake-up bell
4:30 AM – 6:30 AM: Group meditation in the hall or in your room
6:30 AM – 8:00 AM: Breakfast and rest
8:00 AM – 9:00 AM: Group meditation in the hall
9:00 AM – 11:00 AM: Meditation in the hall or in your room
11:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Lunch break
12:00 PM – 1:00 PM: Rest and interviews with the teacher
1:00 PM – 2:30 PM: Meditation in the hall or in your room
2:30 PM – 3:30 PM: Group meditation in the hall
3:30 PM – 5:00 PM: Meditation in the hall or in your room
5:00 PM – 6:00 PM: Tea break
6:00 PM – 7:00 PM: Group meditation in the hall
7:00 PM – 8:15 PM: Teacher’s discourse in the hall
8:15 PM – 9:00 PM: Group meditation in the hall
9:00 PM – 9:30 PM: Question and answer session in the hall
9:30 PM: Retire to your room; lights out

Facilities

Dhamma Giri offers a range of facilities to support the meditation practice:

Meditation Halls: Multiple halls for group meditation sessions
Accommodation: Separate dormitories for men and women, with basic amenities
Dining Facilities: Vegetarian meals provided, with breakfast, lunch, and a light evening snack
Library: Access to books and resources on meditation and related topics
Pagoda: A central pagoda with individual meditation cells for advanced practitioners
Gardens and Walking Paths: Beautifully maintained areas for walking and contemplation

Costs

Vipassana courses at Dhamma Giri are offered free of charge. The center operates entirely on a donation basis, relying on contributions from past students who have completed at least one ten-day course. This ensures that financial constraints do not prevent anyone from learning Vipassana meditation.

Rules

Participants must adhere to a strict code of discipline, including:

Noble Silence: Complete silence, including no eye contact or gestures, during the course
No Electronic Devices: Mobile phones and other devices are not allowed
Dietary Restrictions: Only vegetarian meals are provided; outside food is not permitted
Dress Code: Modest, comfortable clothing
Prohibited Items: No reading or writing materials, intoxicants, or personal religious items
Punctuality: Adherence to the daily schedule is mandatory
Respect for the Environment: Maintaining cleanliness and respecting the center’s facilities and grounds