Sky Lake Shambhala

Peaceful retreat in the Shawangunk Mountains.

United States NY paid

located in the scenic Mid-Hudson River Valley, Sky Lake Shambhala offers a contemplative escape just two hours north of Manhattan. This center, part of an international Shambhala community, provides a peaceful environment for meditation, arts, and community engagement. Surrounded by tall cedars and white pines on the northern crest of the Shawangunk Mountains, it's a genuine haven from city life. Guests can explore the center's woods, hike the extraordinary trails at nearby Mohonk Preserve, or simply stroll around the spring-fed pond. While the atmosphere is casual and intimate, particularly for smaller groups, the focus remains on personal growth and connection within a supportive setting. It's a place where you can disconnect from the daily grind and reconnect with yourself amidst nature's tranquility.

Highlights

Part of an international Shambhala community
Opportunities for hiking at Mohonk Preserve
Casual and intimate retreat atmosphere
Set amidst tall cedars and white pines
Spring-fed pond on the property

Good for

beginnersexperienced meditatorsnature loverscommunity seekersarts enthusiasts

Setting

Sky Lake Shambhala is set within a forest of tall cedars and white pines, perched on the northern crest of the Shawangunk Mountains. The Lodge exudes a contemplative and peaceful ambiance, providing a genuine haven from urban life. The grounds invite exploration, with opportunities to walk in the woods, hike extraordinary trails at the nearby Mohonk Preserve, or enjoy a leisurely stroll around the spring-fed pond.

The practice

Sky Lake Shambhala is part of an international community founded by Chögyam Trungpa Rinpoche. While the specific practices are not detailed, Shambhala tradition typically involves sitting meditation (shamatha-vipashyana) to cultivate mindfulness and awareness, often integrated with arts and community activities. Beginners can expect a supportive environment for learning and practicing meditation.

A typical day

Daily structure varies by retreat and group size. Guests can generally expect a casual and intimate vibe, with time for meditation, community engagement, and enjoying the natural surroundings. Specific schedules for meals, practice sessions, and free time would be provided upon arrival.

Accommodation

Information about specific lodging types is not available, but the center offers multi-day retreats with food and lodging included.

What to bring

Given the varied climate, pack layers. For the cooler months (Jan, Feb, Dec), warm clothing is essential. For the warmer months (Jul, Aug, Jun), lighter clothing is suitable, but always bring rain gear as May, April, and June can be wet.

Website skylake.shambhala.org

Address 22 Hillcrest Lane, Rosendale, NY 12472, United States

How to get there

Sky Lake Shambhala is located at 22 Hillcrest Lane, Rosendale, NY 12472, United States, about two hours north of Manhattan in the Mid-Hudson River Valley.

Nearest airport: Syracuse Hancock International Airport (SYR) (22 km)

The nearest airport is Syracuse Hancock International Airport (SYR), approximately 22 km from the center. Guests would need to arrange their own transportation from the airport.

Nearest city: Syracuse

Languages

English

Pricing

The price for multi-day retreats, including food and lodging, is surprisingly low.

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

Visit Sky Lake Shambhala website

Climate

Climate Zone: Temperate

Best Months: Sep, Mar, Jul

Avoid: May, Apr, Jun

The region experiences an annual average temperature of 9.0°C. Summers (July, August, June) are the warmest, while winters (January, February, December) are the coolest. While September, March, and July are typically the driest months, be prepared for potential rain during May, April, and June.

Location

Frequently asked questions

What kind of activities can I expect during a retreat?

Beyond meditation, you can expect opportunities to engage with arts and community. The natural setting also encourages activities like walking in the woods, hiking at Mohonk Preserve, or strolling around the spring-fed pond.

Is Sky Lake Shambhala suitable for beginners?

Yes, the center welcomes individuals new to meditation. The casual and intimate atmosphere, especially with smaller groups, can be very supportive for those just starting their practice.

How do I get to Sky Lake Shambhala?

The center is located at 22 Hillcrest Lane, Rosendale, NY 12472, United States, approximately two hours north of Manhattan in the Mid-Hudson River Valley.

What is included in the retreat price?

The retreat price includes multi-day accommodation and food. Specific details about meals and other inclusions would be provided by the center.

What is the best time of year to visit Sky Lake Shambhala?

The center is open year-round. The warmest months are July, August, and June, while January, February, and December are the coolest. The driest months are September, March, and July, with May, April, and June being the wettest.