Meditation Retreats: How Much Do They Cost?

The cost of a meditation retreat can vary depending on location, duration, and the type of accommodation. Some retreats are free and run on voluntary donations, while others can cost thousands of dollars.

For example, a 3-day retreat in Pennsylvania that includes yoga and meditation costs $600, whereas a 3-day retreat in California that includes yoga, wellness, and self-improvement costs $1,350.

The length of a retreat can also vary, from a weekend to a month or more. A classic Vipassana silent retreat usually lasts 10 days but can be as short as 3 days.

Free and donation-based retreats

Free and Donation-Based Meditation Retreats

While many meditation retreats can be expensive, there are also free and donation-based options available. These retreats are often run by Buddhist monasteries and retreat centres inspired by the culture of generosity found in South East Asia, where such retreats are open to all without charge.

Vipassana

Vipassana is a Buddhist community with over 230 centres worldwide, where free meditation retreats are held with the tutelage of Buddhist monks. The retreats last for 10 days and include multiple daily meditation sessions, which can last up to two hours each. All types of "intoxicants" are prohibited, and the diet is strictly vegan with no food after noon. Vipassana retreats are silent retreats, and interaction with other participants is discouraged.

Freely Given Retreats

Freely Given Retreats is an organisation that provides Insight Meditation retreats to anyone, regardless of their financial situation. Their retreats are generally held in silence and promote a culture of generosity by encouraging participants to donate to support the meditation practice of others.

Spirit Rock

Spirit Rock is a meditation centre in West Marin County, California, that offers both residential and non-residential retreats. They hold weekly drop-in groups that are donation-based and meet online or on their land.

Volunteering

Another way to join a meditation retreat for free is to volunteer at a retreat centre. Many centres offer free accommodation and meals in exchange for work, which can include housekeeping, cooking, cleaning, gardening, and farm assistance. This option allows you to experience the retreat while also having time to practice meditation and explore your inner self.

Budget-friendly destinations

If you're looking for a meditation retreat that won't break the bank, there are plenty of affordable options available. Here are some suggestions for budget-friendly destinations:

• Asia: The cheapest destinations for meditation retreats tend to be in Asia, particularly India and Nepal, where you can find ashrams offering retreats at very reasonable prices. Other affordable Asian countries include Thailand, Cambodia and Indonesia.
• North America: In the US, the Kadampa Meditation Center in Glen Spey, New York, offers classes from $10 and weekend retreats from $45. The Spirit Rock Meditation Center in Woodacre, California, provides a range of affordable options, including non-residential retreats. The Drala Mountain Center in Red Feather Lakes, Colorado, has accommodations ranging from lodge rooms to shared dormitories and seasonal tents. The Southern Dharma Retreat Center in Hot Springs, North Carolina, offers rustic, instructor-led retreats with shared facilities and vegan meals included.
• South America: While specific retreat centers were not mentioned, South America is mentioned as a more affordable destination for meditation retreats compared to Europe and North America.
• Free options: If you're looking for a completely free option, the Vipassana Meditation Center offers 10-day retreats at no cost (excluding airfare). These retreats include step-by-step instructions for meditation and are available at nearly 180 locations worldwide.

When it comes to budgeting for a meditation retreat, it's important to consider the cost of travel and associated costs, as these are typically not included in the retreat price. Additionally, keep in mind that some retreats may have work exchange programs or scholarships available, so be sure to inquire about these options when researching different retreats.

What's included in the price

The price of a meditation retreat can vary depending on the location, duration, and quality of the accommodation. A 1-week meditation retreat with standard private accommodation and all meals included can cost anywhere between $600 to $1,350 per person. Some retreats are free and run on voluntary donations, while others can be very expensive, offering luxurious experiences.

Most meditation retreats include three meals a day and accommodation. They also cover the cost of basic facilities like the internet and use of the retreat's space. If the retreat includes other activities, these are usually included in the package. For example, some retreats offer complimentary massages or spa sessions, but these are often charged as extras, along with any specialised treatments.

Some retreats include transportation to and from the airport, while others offer free cancellation. It's worth noting that the cost of travel and associated costs are usually not included in the price.

• Esalen Institute, California: Three meals a day, accommodations ranging from sleeping bags and yurts to suites and entire houses, 24-hour access to hot springs, a swimming pool, art barn, and meditation hut.
• Silent Stay Meditation Center, California: Private rooms, three silent meals a day, a program with Bruce Davis, Ph.D. and Ruth Davis, a heartfulness trainer.
• Vedanta Spiritual & Holistic Retreat, California: Weekend, four-day and week-long retreats with quiet hiking trails, yoga, meditation, breathwork, gourmet vegetarian meals, and boutique, luxury accommodations.
• Crestone Retreats, Colorado: Three vegetarian meals a day, plus homegrown foods, hiking excursions, and hot springs. Lodging ranges from camping to a private room in the guest house.
• Shoshoni Yoga Retreat, Colorado: Yoga rooms, indoor and outdoor spaces for silent meditation, hiking trails, a hot tub, and a sauna.
• Gainesville Retreat Center, Florida: Top teachers to guide you through yoga, meditation, and more, all in a calming, communal setting.
• Zen Den Yoga School, Florida: Standup paddle boarding excursions, yin yoga retreats, detox and cleansing retreats, and speciality retreats with themes like Chinese medicine.
• Dharmakaya Center for Wellbeing, New York: Opportunities for meditation, yoga, and workshops, with affordable accommodations including delicious vegetarian food and various room options.
• Menla Retreat & Dewa Spa, New York: Massage and related bodywork, Tibetan healing therapies, hiking trails, and spa facilities. Accommodations include standard and deluxe options, with meals prepared by Chef Alicia using ingredients from Menla's organic garden.
• The Art of Living Retreat Center, North Carolina: Meditation and silent meditation retreats, Shankara Ayurveda Wellness programs, and R&R retreats. Accommodations include beds, Wi-Fi, and television.
• Seven Springs Yoga and Holistic Retreats, Tennessee: Private yoga classes, nature hikes, medicinal herb walks, forest baths, vegetarian meals, and lodging in beautifully designed yurts or camping opportunities.
• Retreat in the Pines, Texas: Chef-prepared meals, guided meditations, gentle yoga, nature walks, essential oils, yoga, and off-site activities.

Luxury retreats

Luxury Meditation Retreats

While meditation retreats can be found at a range of price points, from free to extremely expensive, luxury retreats tend to be at the higher end of the spectrum. These retreats often include luxurious accommodations, gourmet meals, and a range of wellness activities in addition to meditation. Here are some examples of luxury meditation retreats around the world:

• Euphoria Retreat, Greece: This retreat focuses on holistic healing for the mind, body, and soul. It offers meditative practices, gentle movement, yoga, and anti-stress and mindfulness programmes.
• Chiva Som: This retreat delves into the ancient practice and philosophy of yoga, offering a sanctuary for rejuvenation, tranquillity, and healing.
• Longevity Health & Wellness: This retreat offers a unique holistic health journey with its Anti-Stress & Mindfulness programme.
• Kamalaya: Embrace a journey of physical rejuvenation, mental clarity, and spiritual growth at this tranquil retreat.
• Amanpuri, Phuket, Thailand: Find inner peace through expert guidance with the Mindfulness Stress Management programme at this luxury mental health retreat.
• Six Senses Ninh Van Bay: Discover the practice of hatha yoga and explore the benefits of achieving body-mind balance.
• Shou Sugi Ban House, The Hamptons: This boutique spa and wellness retreat offers a holistic approach to wellness, taking heavy influence from the nearby ocean and local pine forests. The retreat is guided by the belief that each person walks a unique path to wellness, and your experience will be crafted in collaboration with skilled staff.
• Amangiri, Utah: Set amidst the dramatic scenery of southern Utah, Amangiri offers a bespoke itinerary of immersive wellness and cultural activities, as well as privileged access to local national parks. The retreat's spa spans 25,000 square feet and offers a range of signature treatments.
• Cal-a-Vie Health Spa, California: With a star-studded list of previous guests, this spa has gained a reputation for being one of the best health spas. It offers a range of programs focused on fitness, beauty, and nutrition, with tailor-made itineraries that include treatments, activities, and wine-tasting experiences.
• Miraval Austin, Texas: Each retreat at Miraval begins with the question, "What is your intention?" From there, an individual program is built around your answer, whether it's intensive activity or a more rejuvenating week of soul-searching. Specialists are on hand to offer support and guidance for a variety of complaints and causes.
• Sensei Lanai, A Four Seasons Resort, Hawaii: This secluded luxury wellness retreat adopts a Sensei Way philosophy that focuses on three practices: move, nourish, and rest. Upon booking, guests receive a pre-arrival questionnaire, and upon arrival, a dedicated Sensei Guide helps create a personalised itinerary that may include yoga, golf, massages, and facials.
• The Ranch Malibu, California: With no televisions or cell service and limited WiFi, a seven-day program at The Ranch promises complete detoxification and rejuvenation. The results-driven program is designed to help individuals meet their specific goals, whether it's healthy weight loss or improved well-being.
• Golden Door, California: Routinely named as one of the best spa and wellness retreats in the world, Golden Door offers tailor-made, all-inclusive, seven-day retreats with personalised fitness programs, custom meal plans, and a range of spa treatments. The retreat has a 1:4 guest-to-staff ratio, ensuring an unrivalled level of care and attention.
• Lake Austin Spa Resort, Texas: This secluded lakeside retreat focuses on the restorative impact of water, offering aquatic treatments and a wide range of lake-based activities such as paddleboarding and wakeboarding. Guests can also enjoy world-class spa facilities spanning over 25,000 square feet.
• Castle Hot Springs, Arizona: Tucked away in the remote Arizona desert, this luxury wellness resort offers a range of immersive activities and treatments, including exclusive access to natural rock pools with healing properties.

Retreat length

The length of a meditation retreat can vary from a weekend to a week, a month, or more. Classic Vipassana (silent) retreats traditionally last 10 days but can be as short as 3 days. It is recommended that you set aside at least 5 to 7 days to give yourself the chance to fully immerse yourself and relax.

The Esalen Institute in California offers retreats that are mostly weekends or 5 to 7 days long. The Spirit Rock Meditation Center in California holds retreats that can be as short as a day or as long as two months. The Drala Mountain Center in Colorado offers 2-day, 3-day, and week-long retreats. The Alaska Stillpoint Lodge offers 3, 4, 5, and 6-day packages. The Insight Meditation Society in Massachusetts has retreats lasting from a week to a month.

The Gainesville Retreat Center in Florida offers both individual and group retreats. The Crestone Retreats in Colorado has a wilderness and silent meditation retreat with lodging facilities ranging from camping to a private room in the guest house. The Dharmakaya Center for Wellbeing in New York offers flexible personal retreats that can be a few days of quiet contemplation or intensive learning.

Frequently asked questions