Deepen your practice. Serve with awareness. Live the Dharma.

 
Samye Hermitage New York invites practitioners to join our community for periods of residential practice and service during the quieter months of the year.
 Set on our 26-acre retreat campus in the hills of Cooperstown, this program offers an opportunity to live within a rhythm of contemplative practice, mindful work, and study — cultivating both inner and outer harmony.
 

Program Overview

 
Residents participate fully in the daily and weekly life of Samye Hermitage, including:

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  • Morning group practice sessions in the shrine hall

• • Weekly discussion group and public practice offerings

• • Seasonal classes and retreats, when scheduled

• Optional one-on-one guidance and study support with resident instructor Matthew Zalichin

 

In addition, residents contribute approximately 15 hours per week of mindful service supporting the Hermitage’s daily operations — such as gardening, groundskeeping, hospitality, kitchen work, or project assistance.
 
Participation requires a preliminary interview to ensure alignment with the spirit and expectations of community life at Samye Hermitage.
 

Contribution & Duration

• • • Weekly contribution: $147 (self-catered) — This supports your lodging, utilities, and participation in the Hermitage’s daily practice, study, and community life.

   

  • • Volunteer service: ~15 hours per week

   

  • Stay length: minimum of two weeks, up to three months (renewable upon review)

A residency review will take place after the first two weeks to ensure mutual suitability and alignment with the program’s intentions.
 

What’s Included

• • Simple shared lodging in a peaceful rural setting

• • Access to shrine hall, practice spaces, and community programs

• • Communal kitchen and pantry area for self-prepared meals

• • Optional participation in seasonal retreats and service projects

• Guidance and mentorship from an experienced teaching and resident community

Requirements

• • • Interview: Required prior to acceptance

   

  • • Proof of health insurance: Must be provided before arrival

   

  • • Age: 18+

   

  • Conduct: Commitment to ethical conduct, harmonious community life, and respect for the Hermitage environment

Who It’s For

 
This program welcomes sincere practitioners of the Buddhadharma who wish to integrate study, meditation, and service into daily life.
 Participants should have prior exposure to meditation or Buddhist practice, a willingness to live harmoniously in community, and the physical ability to contribute light manual or service work.
 

To Apply

 
Please select “Register Now” to complete your application. 
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.