Lithuania

Vipassana's growth in Lithuania

Lithuania Vilnius district Goenka (S.N. Goenka) donation

The Vipassana tradition has a fascinating history in Lithuania, beginning with individual efforts in the early 90s and evolving into organized group sittings by 2001. The first 10-day course, held in a Catholic seminary in 2004, marked a significant milestone, attracting 45 students, predominantly Lithuanian. This initial success paved the way for annual courses, and by 2011, demand had grown so much that the center was offering two 10-day courses and one 3-day course each year. In 2012, they successfully hosted a large course for 130 students, demonstrating the increasing interest in meditation within the country. This center operates on a donation model, making these profound teachings accessible to a wider audience.

Highlights

First 10-day course held in a Catholic seminary
Rapid growth in demand since 2011, with multiple courses annually
Hosted a large course for 130 students in 2012
Pioneering Vipassana efforts in Eastern Europe since 1992

Good for

beginnersexperienced meditatorsVipassana practitionerssilent retreatsthose interested in the history of meditation in Eastern Europe

Setting

Located in Sudervė village, within the Vilnius district, the center is situated in a rural area of Lithuania. The specific atmosphere will depend on the rented venue for each course, but the historical use of a Catholic seminary suggests a quiet and contemplative environment.

Accommodation

Accommodation details are not specified, but past courses have utilized rented facilities, including a Catholic seminary, which implies basic, suitable lodging for retreat participants.

Website www.lt.dhamma.org

Phone 00 370 636 34964

Email [email protected]

Address 12 Vilnoja str., Sudervė village, Vilnius district, Lithuania LT-14201

How to get there

The center is located at 12 Vilnoja str., Sudervė village, Vilnius district, Lithuania LT-14201. Specific directions to the current course venue would be provided upon registration.

Nearest airport: Vilnius International Airport (VNO) (11 km)

Nearest city: Vilnius

Public transport: Contact the center for transport details to the specific course location.

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

Visit Lithuania website

Climate

Climate Zone: Temperate

Best Months: Feb, Apr, Dec

Avoid: Jul, May, Jun

Lithuania experiences distinct seasons. Summers are generally warm, while winters can be cold with snow. Visitors should pack accordingly based on the time of year they plan to attend a course.

Location

Frequently asked questions

How long are the courses offered?

Since 2011, the center has been conducting two 10-day courses and one 3-day course annually.

What is the typical size of a course?

While the first course had 45 students, a large course in September 2012 accommodated around 130 students and 15 servers, indicating the capacity for significant group sizes.

Where are the courses held?

Courses are held at rented sites. The first 10-day course in 2004, for example, was conducted in a Catholic seminary in Troskunai.