Solitary Retreats

Solitary retreat cabins are available at Gampo Abbey for those who are interested in doing a retreat for a week or longer. Anyone interested in doing a solitary retreat must fill out an application which should be emailed to the Gampo Abbey office for consideration by the Head of Practice.

cliff hanger retreat cabin

The cost of solitary retreats is $35, or $60 CDN per night depending upon the cabin. We provide a cabin as well as vegetarian food which retreatants cook for themselves. All cabins have a small kitchenette, a bed with bedding, a shrine, an alter with some shrine items such as water bowls, candles, and some pictures. Meditation cushions are also provided. All retreatants should bring with them personal photos and shrine items.

There is running water in each of the kitchenettes. The less expensive cabin, $35 per night, is smaller and more rustic with an outhouse. The other cabin, $60 per night, has an indoor toilet and shower. Showers can be taken in the main house at designated times.

In accordance with Gampo Abbey policy, no meat, garlic, or onions are permitted for retreatants. Exceptions may be made in the case of eating meat for medical reasons only and if pre-approved by the director. Retreatants should bring any medication or dietary supplements they might need.

Solitary retreats are solitary in that there is no contact with other abbey residents or personnel. All abbey residents are informed of ongoing solitary retreats and are instructed to allow the retreatants to keep within their retreat boundaries.

Learn more about meditation and buddhism at shambhala.org
Read more about meditation and buddhism at shambhalatimes.org


Search our website

Gampo Abbey
Pleasant Bay, Cape Breton,  NS B0E 2P0
Tel. 902-224-2752    Email:

Shambhala, Shambhala Meditation Center, Shambhala Training, Shambhala Center and Way of Shambhala are registered service marks of Shambhala International (Vajradhatu).   Website by Blue Mandala