Outside view of the IMS retreat center

Retreat Center

IMS’s Retreat Center first opened its doors in 1976. It offers a yearly schedule of meditation courses, lasting from a weekend to three months. Most retreats are designed for both new and experienced meditators.

Recognized insight meditation teachers from all over the world offer daily instruction and guidance in Buddhist meditations known as vipassana (insight) and metta (lovingkindness). While the context is the Buddha’s teachings, these practices are universal and help us to deepen awareness and compassion.

At regular intervals throughout a retreat, group or individual interviews with the teachers take place. A typical daily retreat schedule starts at 5:30 am and ends at 10 pm. The day is spent in silent practice with alternate periods of sitting and walking meditation, as well as a one-hour work-as-practice period.

Meals are nutritious and vegetarian. Accommodations at the Retreat Center are simple single rooms. Men and women do not share accommodations, and camping is not available.

For a list of upcoming retreats, check out our Retreat Center Schedule:

2024 Retreat Center Schedule

Evening Talks

Dropping in to attend evening talks about the teachings is currently not available. Please check back here, we will post updates when this becomes available again.

Teacher talks given at the Retreat Center are available for downloading, streaming or podcasting.