Away from the noise of traffic and the hectic pace of the city, Kechara Forest Retreat is a sanctuary of outer and inner peace. Here is the perfect environment for gentle meditation and forest walks. Surrounded by tropical trees, with the serene sounds of trickling brooks and chirping birds, we can feel as one with nature, whether in deep contemplation or having healthy walks.
Spirituality
For the spirituality inclined, there are opportunities to learn and practise uplifting meditations for the mind, body and spirit. There will be a public temple with a glorious statue of the historical Buddha Shakyamuni, where people can make offerings or say a prayer. Nearby will be a butterlamp house, for those who wish to make light offerings for their loved ones. Just beyond there, on a hillside, will be five holy stupas where visitors can circumambulate, meditate and dedicate their merits.
Retreats
Those who are serious about their spiritual practice will enjoy the conducive conditions for retreats. The preliminary practices of water offerings, light offerings, prostrations and other purification practices can all be done here in a simple and comfortable environment. It is also a place for children to do short spiritual retreats to cultivate care, focus and discipline.
Family
In a world where we spend more time at work than at home, and we often don’t have time for our loved ones, the Kechara Forest Retreat is perfect for families to get together, spend quality time together and bond together. Here is a space where our precious time can be infused with positive activities, laughter and love.
Learning
KFR is also a place for nurturing minds with knowledge and wisdom. There will be structured classes by experienced and qualified teachers for those who wish to study and gain a deeper knowledge about Buddhadharma.The curriculum will be tailored for various levels and ages, from children to adults. There will also be weekend workshops for those who prefer to learn at their own pace.
Community Service
As with all Kechara activities, community service is one of the key activities embodying compassion in action. There will be a home for the elderly, where people can spend their twilight years in a caring, resort-like environment. An orphanage, or home for children whose parents are unable to care for them, can live in a warm, nurturing atmosphere to grow into responsible and balanced adults. There will also be an animal sanctuary, where abandoned animals are given a new lease of life and love.
Sustainability
In order for all dreams to be sustainable long-term, KFR intends to become self-sustaining via various income-generating activities. In line with its holistic mission, KFR will establish an organic farm to educate people on the health and environmental benefits of organic foods. The benefits of this farm is three-fold – to provide knowledge of healthy eating, to provide an opportunity for volunteers to participate in cultivating the produce and finally, to offer the organic produce on sale to the public.
Another exciting project at KFR is a candle-making factory, where good quality candles made from environmentally-friendly ingredients will be made and sold to the public.
