Every year the Shechen monks in India and Nepal and our nuns in Bhutan observe the Summer Rains Retreat. In the Nepal monastery, the practice is being held in the dining room until the temple which was damaged in the earthquake, can be restored.

The practice stems from the Indian custom established by the Buddha in the Vinaya Sutra.  At that time the retreat was three months long and done during the summer monsoon. The summer retreat in India was a practical response to the monsoon weather. It was also considered not appropriate to travel with the increased likelihood of walking on insects during the rains. At Shechen Monastery the Tibetan version of one and a half months is practiced.

The first day begins with the “Yarne-len” which is the oath-taking ceremony for this retreat (Varsika). During this time none of the monks can leave the monastery grounds and they observe other special vows and restrictions. The regular twice-daily group prayers continue as usual, as well as engaging in specific prayers and meditations for this time. During yarne the monks all eat their morning and evening meals from the traditionally shaped begging bowl in the main temple. Many monks take vows not to eat at night in accordance with this Shravakayana tradition.

The usual Vajrayana practices such as group tsok and other practices that are normally conducted on the 10^th, 25^th and 29^th of the lunar calendar are not practiced during this time.

Contributions can be made for food and offerings for the Yarne Summer Retreat.