Dhamma Laṭṭhikā

Vipassana in Cambodia, by donation.

Cambodia Battambang Goenka (S.N. Goenka) donation

Just a short drive from Battambang's urban buzz, Dhamma Laṭṭhikā, or 'Rod of Dhamma,' offers a tranquil retreat in rural Cambodia. Spanning over 39,000 square meters around the serene Phnom Trung Moan hill, this center has been instrumental in rekindling Vipassana meditation in Cambodia since its establishment in 2004. The spacious Dhamma Hall can comfortably host over 180 students, with dedicated lodging for 152, making it well-equipped for a diverse range of practitioners. Beyond the foundational 10-day retreats, Dhamma Laṭṭhikā also hosts longer 20 and 30-day programs, specialized Satipatthana courses, and even programs designed for teenagers and children. Instruction is often led by local Cambodian Assistant Teachers, with occasional international guest teachers enriching the experience, all sustained by a donation model to ensure accessibility.

Highlights

Pivotal in revitalizing Vipassana in Cambodia since 2004
Offers specialized Satipatthana courses
Hosts programs specifically for teenagers and children
Instruction by local Cambodian Assistant Teachers and international guests
Set around the tranquil Phnom Trung Moan hill

Good for

experienced meditatorsbeginnerssilent retreatscultural immersionteenagerschildren

Setting

The center is situated in a rural area, about 18km from Battambang City, surrounded by over 39,000 square meters of land around the peaceful Phnom Trung Moan hill. This provides a quiet, natural environment conducive to deep meditation practice, away from urban distractions.

The practice

Dhamma Laṭṭhikā teaches Vipassana meditation, a technique focused on self-observation to purify the mind. Students learn to observe their natural breath and bodily sensations, developing equanimity and insight. The practice is taught in a structured, silent environment, suitable for both new and experienced meditators seeking deep introspection.

A typical day

While specific daily schedules vary by retreat length and type, a typical day at Dhamma Laṭṭhikā involves a rigorous schedule of meditation sittings, interspersed with short breaks and meals. The emphasis is on silent practice and self-observation, with guidance from Assistant Teachers. Evenings often include discourses or instructions to deepen understanding.

Accommodation

The center offers adequate accommodation for 152 students, with specific provisions for 14 monks, 42 male students, and 96 female students. Details on room types (e.g., single, shared) are not specified, but the capacity suggests a structured lodging arrangement.

What to bring

Given the warm climate, light, loose-fitting clothing is advisable. As it is a meditation center, modest attire is recommended. Consider bringing insect repellent and any personal necessities.

Website www.latthika.dhamma.org

Email [email protected]

Address Phnom Trungmoan, National Road No. 57, Battambang, Cambodia

How to get there

Dhamma Laṭṭhikā is located in Phnom Trungmoan, National Road No. 57, Battambang, Cambodia. It is about 18km from Battambang City.

Nearest airport: Battambang Airport (BBM) (17 km)

Battambang Airport (BBM) is approximately 17 km from the center. Travelers would need to arrange local transport like a taxi or tuk-tuk from the airport.

Nearest city: Battambang

Languages

KhmerEnglish

Pricing

All courses at Dhamma Laṭṭhikā run entirely by donation, making the teachings accessible to everyone.

Interested in this center? Check availability and upcoming retreats on their official site.

Visit Dhamma Laṭṭhikā website

Climate

Climate Zone: Tropical

Best Months: Jan, Feb, Dec

Avoid: Sep, May, Oct

Battambang experiences a tropical climate with an annual average temperature of 27.8°C. Expect warm conditions, with the hottest months being April, August, and July. The driest period is from January to February and December, while September, May, and October are the wettest months, bringing higher humidity and rainfall.

Location

Frequently asked questions

What types of meditation courses are offered at Dhamma Laṭṭhikā?

Dhamma Laṭṭhikā offers a variety of courses, including foundational 10-day retreats, longer 20 and 30-day programs, specialized Satipatthana courses, and even courses tailored for teenagers and children.

Is Dhamma Laṭṭhikā suitable for first-time meditators?

Yes, the center offers foundational 10-day courses which are designed to introduce beginners to the Vipassana technique in a structured and supportive environment.

What is the language of instruction at the center?

Instruction is often led by local Cambodian Assistant Teachers, and occasionally by Assistant Teachers from Europe, the USA, and other international guests. This suggests that instruction is available in Khmer and likely English, with other languages possible depending on the guest teachers.

How far is the center from Battambang City?

Dhamma Laṭṭhikā is located in a rural area approximately 18km from the bustling city of Battambang.

What is the capacity for students at the center?

The center has a spacious Dhamma Hall that can accommodate over 180 students, and dedicated lodging facilities for 152 students, including specific provisions for monks, male, and female practitioners.