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Helpful guidance for visitors

FAQ — Title

Frequently Asked Questions — Ramanalayam

Accommodation & Stay

Is accommodation free? +

Yes. Donations are welcome but never required.

What is provided in the rooms? +

A bed, mosquito net, sheets, a small shelf, and a lamp. Bathrooms are shared or attached.

Are meals provided? +

Yes — three simple vegetarian meals a day. The kitchen is happy to accommodate most dietary needs with advance notice.

How long can I stay? +

Stays of 1 night to 1 month are typical. Longer stays are considered on a case-by-case basis.

Clothing

Can I wear any color cloths? +

Yes, As long as your knee is covered.

Q1 +

A1

Donations & Volunteering

How is my donation used? +

It supports the shrine, annadanam, translations, retreats, and the children's programmes. A full accounts summary is available on request.

Can I volunteer for a day? +

Yes. Please write to volunteers@ramanalayam.lk a few days in advance.

Do you accept foreign volunteers? +

Yes. We are happy to host international volunteers for stays of two weeks to three months.

Meditation & Practice

I'm new to meditation — can I join a sitting? +

Of course. Sit comfortably, breathe gently, and follow the bell at the beginning and end of the sitting.

Are there guided sessions? +

Yes. Morning sittings are unguided; Wednesday evenings include a short guided introduction to Self-enquiry.

Is there a beginner's retreat? +

We host two silent retreats a year, plus an introductory weekend in spring.

Visiting

What are the temple opening hours? +

The shrine is open daily from 04:30 to 21:00. The office is open Mon–Sat, 09:00–17:00.

What is the dress code? +

Simple, modest clothing. Shoulders and knees covered. White is preferred on festival days and during retreats.

Are mobile phones allowed? +

Yes, but please switch to silent mode. Refrain from calls inside the meditation hall or during pooja.

May I take photographs? +

Yes, in the grounds. Not inside the meditation hall during sittings. Please be discreet at festival times.

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