Meditation & Yoga Retreats in Myanmar

Myanmar is the home country of the Mahasi tradition of intensive vipassana meditation, and remains one of the world's most serious destinations for committed Theravada meditators. The Mahasi Sasana Yeiktha in Yangon, the Chanmyay Yeiktha, and Pa-Auk Tawya Monastery (near Mawlamyine) accept Western retreatants for residential stays from a week to many months on a donation basis. Pa-Auk specifically teaches a step-by-step jhana and vipassana path that has shaped many contemporary Western teachers. The Sagaing Hills near Mandalay host dozens of nunneries and monasteries. The atmosphere is austere by Western retreat-resort standards — simple shared rooms, morning-only meals, strict daily schedule. Conditions in the country have been complicated by ongoing political turmoil; check current safety and visa guidance before planning a stay. English is widely spoken at international-facing meditation centers. Best seasons run November–February (dry, cool); March–May is very hot; the monsoon (June–October) closes some centers. Visa policy varies; check Myanmar embassy for current rules. Cost: monastery stays are donation-based and very low.