FAQ
General
Akhara means a center for the study and practice of lineage transmitted Tantrik Yoga, meditation and philosophy. An Akhara is considered to “hold” the tradition’s essence and preserve it’s integrity for future generations. An Akhara is also a place where students and practitioners can delve deeply into their sadhana in either group or solo retreats and as permanent residents.
Seva (say-va) is a Sanskrit word meaning “selfless service.” Seva is a common practice in many of the Indian religions as a means for liberation. Many texts explain the spiritual benefits of doing Seva and the ways in which it should be performed. It is said that one who performs selfless service without desire for reward will certainly attain liberation. This orientation is critical in making this action fruitful. When one does Seva, one should try to do it without any thought of reward or personal benefit. Possible Seva jobs at Kailash Akhara may include work in the garden, help with current permaculture projects, housekeeping and assistance with maintenance and upkeep of the land and buildings. We try to assign Seva jobs that relate to ones personal expertise and interests. If you have a particular skill or area of Seva in mind please make sure to inform us on your registration form.
How does staying at Kailash Akhara differ from staying at other retreat centers?
Besides being an Akhara the retreat center is also a working permaculture center and intentional community. This means that you will be asked to be mindful of certain things during your stay in order to lessen the impact we have on the earth. We ask that you be extra conservative of water usage when bathing, washing clothes, etc. Never leave a faucet or hose left unattended. The center’s main source for water is from rain catchment. This water is stored and used for all of the centers needs. The electricity system on Kailash Akhara is solar powered. This means that electricity is limited, especially on overcast and rainy days. We ask that you be mindful of electricity usage at all times and turn off lights when not being used. Unfortunately, at this time we are unable to accommodate the charging of personal items such as cell phones, laptops, Ipods, personal shavers, etc. Phone calls and Internet access are available for a fee through the Kailash Akhara phone and computer.
Yes. We ask that you discard of all waste appropriately. Any organic material should be placed in the proper compost bucket and all recyclable and non-recyclable garbage should be placed in their designated bins. Please ask a KA staff member if you have any questions. Non-recyclable items such as batteries, disposable razors, used lighters, etc. are to be taken with you when you leave.
What about female hygiene products and diapers?
In order to minimize the amount of our non-recyclable garbage, we encourage women who are visiting the center to use re-usable hygiene products, (such as Gladrags, Wemoon, the cup etc.) and to bring cloth diapers for babies if possible. If you do not bring re-usable products please dispose of all female hygiene products and diapers in the designated green bin behind the kitchen. Please ask staff for assistance.
Will I be able to use the Internet during my stay?
Kailash Akhara has a computer with Internet access for guests to use. The fee is 1 Thai Baht/per minute. The cost to use the printer is 2 Thai Baht/per page.
Will I be able to make local or long distance phone calls while I am there?
Kailash Akhara has a phone that guests can use for both local and long distance phone calls. Phone calls are based on the centers current calling card plan. Long distance calls have an additional 30 baht fee.
Will I be able to have my own dorm room or hut?
Depending on the number of people visiting the center during your stay you may have to share a room or hut. The dorm house is a 15 room two-story building that can house up to 60 people. Each room is equipped with bunk beds and Thai floor mattresses. There are a limited number of bamboo huts available. The solo-retreat cabins are reserved for people doing a solo retreat and are not shared.
Are there any amenities included in the lodging fee?
Kailash Akhara supplies pillows, sheets and pillowcases, and an assortment of meditation cushions and yoga mats. Residents are responsible for doing their own laundry, including bed sheets and pillowcases. Laundry detergent, including clothes lines and pins are provided. A First Aid kit is also available for minor cuts, abrasions etc. Please refer to “recommended items to bring” page for further information to help make your stay here a pleasant one.
Will I be able to purchase anything at the center that I may have forgotten?
Kailash Akhara has a small store with basic items for sale including a small assortment of toiletries such as toothpaste, toothbrush, dental floss, deodorant, hair shampoo and conditioner, soap, Q-tips, tissues, mosquito repellent, etc. We also stock batteries, notebooks, pens and some spiritual items such as malas. Please ask a KA staff member for assistance.
Will I be able to get a ride into town?
Rides into town are reserved for emergencies and pre-arranged pick-ups and drop-offs at the Phu Reua bus stop.
What if I get injured? Is there a hospital nearby?
There is a local town hospital in Phu Reua 15 minutes from the center. Two larger hospitals are located in Loei 45 minutes from the center. There is a dentist at the Phu Reua hospital and another one in Loei.
Is there a place to store my valuables at the center?
We suggest that you leave valuables at home. You will be unable to lock your hut or dorm room. Money, passports, etc. may be kept in the Kailash Akhara safe. Please ask a KA staff for assistance.
I would like to make a donation to the center. Is this possible?
We graciously accept donations of all kinds. If you would like to make a monetary donation or a donation of another kind, please see a KA staff member for assistance. Many people also choose to leave behind some of their personal belongings as a donation to the center. These items often include meditation cushions, yoga mats, toiletries, medicines/supplements, candles, incense, clothes, blankets, camping equipment, umbrellas, garden gloves etc. Before leaving any donation item please have them approved by a KA staff member.
Kailash Akhara does not have the facilities to store any personal belongings. You must take all of your things with you when you leave, even if you plan on returning a short time later. Kailash Akhara is not responsible for returning any belongings left at the center. All such items will be donated to the local community.
Why are the costs for staying at the center so low?
We are able to make the fees for staying at Kailash Akhara lower than other places because of the natural way we have designed it. For example, our use of rainwater and solar power enable us to cut costs as well as reduce our negative effect on the planet. Permanent residents, through their Seva, organize and maintain all the different aspects of the center, giving selflessly with the hopes that Kailash Akhara will continue to flourish and be a source of inspiration for all.
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